Dell Alienware 15 R3 SSD Replacement

Introduction

If you need to install a new SSD or are installing a SSD for the first time for your Dell Alienware 15 R3, this guide will help you.

Before starting this repair, be sure to turn off your laptop and unplug the power cord. To be safe, it is wise to unplug the battery connector from the motherboard too.

What you need

Step 1 Back Case

Dell Alienware 15 R3 SSD Replacement, Back Case: step 1, image 1 of 3

Dell Alienware 15 R3 SSD Replacement, Back Case: step 1, image 2 of 3

Dell Alienware 15 R3 SSD Replacement, Back Case: step 1, image 3 of 3

Before you begin, turn off the laptop and unplug the charger.
Flip the laptop over so that the backside is facing up.
Use a Phillips #00 screwdriver to remove the six 13.0 mm screws from the sides of the back case.
Use a Phillips #00 screwdriver to remove one 5.0 mm screw from the back of the laptop.

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Step 2

Use the opening tool to pry the back case from the computer.
Use the opening tool and work your way around the perimeter of the back case to gently release the clips.
Start from the black vent for an easier removal.
Lift the back case off of the laptop.

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Step 3 SSD

Dell Alienware 15 R3 SSD Replacement, SSD: step 3, image 1 of 1

Use the Phillips #00 to remove the 3.0 mm screws that secure the cover of the SSD.
Remove the cover from the SSD.
The cover is not pictured.
To prevent losing data, do NOT remove the SSD while the computer is on or in sleep mode.
Slide the old SSD card out of the slot.