Le disque dur mécanique (HDD) est un système vieillissant qui continue d’équiper les PC portables d’entrée de gamme. Mais son manque de performance constitue un grand hic pour le fonctionnement de l’appareil. L’installation de programme et le transfert de données sont effectivement plus lents sur ce composant d’ancienne génération.
L’accès aux informations stockées sur le HDD présente également une latence. En remplaçant le disque dur par un disque électronique (SSD), votre Laptop va gagner en performance.
What is an SSD?
The SSD (Solid-State Drive) is a data storage device that uses flash memory chips. In practical terms, it performs the same functions as a traditional hard drive, except it has no moving parts. Its biggest difference from an HDD lies in its much higher performance.
Firstly, an SSD offers reduced data access times and delivers higher throughput. Its transfer speed is up to 5 times faster than that of an HDD. This is a major advantage if, for example, you work in e-commerce. An SSD significantly speeds up exporting large product databases and heavy CSV files. This type of storage is also highly recommended for video games.
Secondly, an SSD is very quick to start up. Because it has no mechanical parts, it runs silently, generates less heat and produces no vibration. On top of that, it uses less power (0.15 W when reading versus 2.5 to 5 W for an HDD). Finally, an SSD is very robust and offers a long service life.
How to install an SSD to boost your laptop
A quick reminder before you start: SSDs come with either a SATA port or an mSATA port. So buy an SSD whose port is compatible with the one in your laptop. Then make sure you have all the tools you need for the installation.
You will need an external enclosure to transfer your data to the SSD. You will also need cloning software to copy all the files from your HDD to the SSD. As for tools, have a small screwdriver ready.
Step 1: clone your operating system
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- Place the SSD in the enclosure and connect it to the laptop. Start copying the system using the transfer software by clicking on “Clone”.
- Tick “Disk 0” so that 100% of the operating system is copied.
- As the target disk, select the SSD and tick Disk 1 to transfer the entire operating system.
- Confirm the copy and be patient, as the cloning process can take more than an hour. Remove the SSD from the enclosure once the data transfer is complete.
Step 2: shut down the computer
- Unplug the power cable and remove the battery (if it is removable).
- Press and hold the power button on the laptop for 5 seconds to discharge any residual electricity.
- If you have one, put on an anti-static wrist strap to avoid static electricity.
Step 3: install the SSD
You first need to remove the base cover of the laptop to access its components. If that is not enough, you may also need to take off the keyboard. Make a note of, or take photos of, each step so you can reassemble your device correctly after the installation.
Keep the user manual handy so you can identify all the components of your machine. Once you can access them, remove the hard drive by undoing the screws and disconnecting it. Install the SSD by connecting it and then screwing it into place.
Carefully reassemble your laptop, switch it on, and you can immediately enjoy much faster start-up times and quicker loading speeds.
