How to Replace the M.2 2280 Solid-State Drive with an M.2 2230 Solid-State Drive on the Alienware m18 R2

Learn how to replace the M.2 2280 solid-state drive with an M.2 2230 solid-state drive in Alienware m18 R2. This video shows how to remove the M.2 2280 solid-state drive and install the M.2 2230 solid-state drive in Alienware m18 R2. Before you begin, power off the computer, and disconnect all the attached peripherals. Ensure that you always use ESD protection when working inside the system. If you need more information or assistance, go to dell.com/support.

In this video we show you how to replace the M.2 2280 solid-state drive, or SSD with an M.2 2230 SSD on an Alienware m18 R2 laptop. Before replacing the SSD, read through and follow the safety guidelines to protect your system from potential damage and ensure your personal safety. Be sure that you always use ESD protection when working inside the computer. Before you begin, create a recovery drive and back up all data. Then, turn off the computer and disconnect all the attached peripherals.

To begin, remove the six screws that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly. Then, loosen the remaining two captive screws. Using a plastic scribe, pry the base cover from the bottom left, and then continue to work on the sides to open the base cover. Slide and lift off the base cover. Peel off the tape that secures the battery cable to the system board and disconnect it from the connector. Turn over your computer and open the display to access the power button. Press and hold the power button for fifteen seconds to drain the flea power. then, close the display and turn over your computer. Locate the M.2 2280 SSD on your computer.

Remove the two screws that secure the M.2 2280 thermal shield to the system board. Lift the thermal shield off the SSD. Slide and remove the SSD from its slot. Now, let’s install the M.2 2280 SSD. To replace the M.2 2280 SSD with an M.2 2230 SSD, we have to change the slot where the screw mount is mounted. Unscrew the screw-mount from the system board and slide the screw-mount into the other screw-mount slot. Align the notch on the SSD with the tab on its slot and slide it in. Place the thermal shield on the SSD.

Align the screw hole on the thermal shield with the screw hole on the SSD. Then, replace the two screws that secure the thermal shield. Connect the battery cable to its connector and adhere the tape to secure the cable. Slide the tabs on the base cover under the rear I O cover and snap the base cover into place. Tighten the two captive screws on the base cover. Finally, replace the six screws that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly. For more information or support about Alienware m18 R2, visit Dell.com/Support.