How to upgrade the storage on a Dell Latitude 7480
7 min read
A dell latitude 7480 laptop with an open back panel
If you’re looking to upgrade the storage on your Dell Latitude 7480, then you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about upgrading the storage on your Dell Latitude 7480. From understanding the storage configuration to the step-by-step guide to upgrading the storage, we’ve got you covered. So let’s get started!
Understanding the Dell Latitude 7480 storage configuration
Before you begin upgrading the storage on your Dell Latitude 7480, it’s important to understand the storage configuration. The Dell Latitude 7480 comes with various storage options, including SSDs and HDDs. The SSDs have faster read and write speeds than HDDs, while the HDDs offer more storage space at a lower cost. Depending on the configuration, your Dell Latitude 7480 may come with a 2.5-inch or M.2 NVMe PCIe SSD, or a 2.5-inch SATA3 HDD. You’ll need to know what type of storage your Dell Latitude 7480 has before upgrading.
It’s also important to note that upgrading the storage on your Dell Latitude 7480 may void the warranty. If you’re unsure about the process or don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, it’s best to contact Dell support or a professional technician. Additionally, make sure to back up all important data before attempting any upgrades to avoid losing any important files.
Finding the right type of storage for your Dell Latitude 7480
After determining what type of storage your Dell Latitude 7480 has, the next step is to find the right type of storage to upgrade to. If you have an SSD, consider upgrading to a larger SSD with faster read and write speeds. If you have an HDD, consider upgrading to an SSD to improve performance. When selecting a new storage device, ensure it’s compatible with your Dell Latitude 7480 and has the necessary capacity for your needs.
It’s also important to consider the form factor of the storage device. The Dell Latitude 7480 has a 2.5-inch drive bay, so make sure to select a storage device that fits this size. Additionally, if you’re looking for a portable option, consider an external SSD or HDD that connects via USB. This can be a great option for those who need to transfer large files between devices or work on-the-go.
Preparing your Dell Latitude 7480 for storage upgrade
Before you begin the upgrade process, it’s important to prepare your Dell Latitude 7480. Back up any important data and create a recovery USB drive. Shut down your Dell Latitude 7480 and unplug any external devices. Then, remove the battery if possible to prevent any electrical discharge. You’ll also need a set of screwdrivers and an anti-static wristband to prevent any static discharge.
It’s also recommended to clean the inside of your Dell Latitude 7480 before upgrading the storage. Use compressed air to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated inside the laptop. This will ensure that the new storage device operates at optimal performance and prevent any potential damage caused by overheating. Once you’ve completed the cleaning process, you can proceed with the storage upgrade.
Step-by-step guide to upgrading the storage on a Dell Latitude 7480
Now that you’re ready to begin the upgrade process, follow these steps:
- Flip the Dell Latitude 7480 over and remove the screws holding the bottom cover in place
- Carefully remove the bottom cover and set it aside
- Locate the current storage device and remove it from its slot
- Insert the new storage device into the slot and secure it in place with the screws provided
- Replace the bottom cover and tighten the screws
- Reconnect any external devices and turn on the Dell Latitude 7480
- Format the new storage device and restore the data from your backup
Before you begin the upgrade process, it’s important to ensure that the new storage device is compatible with your Dell Latitude 7480. Check the specifications of your laptop and the storage device to make sure they are compatible.
It’s also recommended to create a backup of all your important data before starting the upgrade process. This will ensure that you don’t lose any important files or documents during the upgrade process.
What to consider when choosing the size of your new storage device
When choosing the size of your new storage device, consider your usage needs. A larger storage device will allow you to store more files and applications, but it will also increase the cost. Consider your budget and usage needs before selecting a new storage device for your Dell Latitude 7480.
Another factor to consider when choosing the size of your new storage device is the type of files you will be storing. If you work with large media files such as videos or high-resolution images, you will need a larger storage device to accommodate these files. On the other hand, if you primarily work with text documents and spreadsheets, a smaller storage device may be sufficient.
It is also important to consider the future when selecting the size of your new storage device. If you anticipate your storage needs increasing in the future, it may be wise to invest in a larger storage device now to avoid having to upgrade again in the near future. However, if you do not anticipate needing additional storage space, a smaller storage device may be a more cost-effective option.
How to install and format a new SSD or HDD on a Dell Latitude 7480
If you’re installing a new SSD or HDD on your Dell Latitude 7480, follow the steps outlined above in the step-by-step guide section. After securing the new storage device, you’ll need to format it before using it. To format the new storage device, follow these steps:
- Press the “Windows” key and “R” key simultaneously to open the Run dialog box
- Type “diskmgmt.msc” into the Run dialog box and press Enter
- Select the new storage device from the list of drives
- Right-click on the new storage device and select “Format”
- Select the file system you want to use and click “OK”
- Wait for the formatting process to complete
- Your new storage device is now ready for use
It’s important to note that formatting a new storage device will erase all data on it. If you have any important files on the new device, make sure to back them up before formatting. Additionally, if you’re installing a new operating system on the new storage device, you’ll need to create a bootable USB drive or DVD with the operating system installation files before starting the installation process.
Troubleshooting common issues during the Dell Latitude 7480 storage upgrade process
During the upgrade process, you may encounter some common issues. Here are some troubleshooting tips:
- If the new storage device isn’t being recognized, check that it’s properly secured in the slot and that it’s compatible with your Dell Latitude 7480
- If your Dell Latitude 7480 isn’t turning on after the upgrade, ensure that the battery is properly connected and charged
- If you’re having trouble formatting the new storage device, ensure that you’re using the correct file system and that the device is properly recognized
It’s important to note that upgrading the storage device on your Dell Latitude 7480 may void your warranty. Before proceeding with the upgrade, check your warranty status and consider consulting with a professional technician.
Tips for maximizing your new Dell Latitude 7480 storage capacity
Now that you’ve successfully upgraded the storage on your Dell Latitude 7480, here are some tips for maximizing your new storage capacity:
- Uninstall any programs or apps you no longer use to free up space
- Move large files to an external storage device
- Regularly clean up your disk space by deleting temporary files and clearing the cache
Another way to maximize your new storage capacity is to use cloud storage services such as Dropbox or Google Drive. These services allow you to store your files online, freeing up space on your device. You can also access your files from anywhere with an internet connection.
It’s also important to be mindful of the types of files you are storing on your device. Large media files such as videos and high-resolution images can quickly take up a lot of space. Consider compressing these files or storing them on an external device to free up space on your Dell Latitude 7480.
Comparing the performance of different types of storage on a Dell Latitude 7480
If you’re curious about the difference in performance between different types of storage on your Dell Latitude 7480, here’s a quick comparison:
- SSDs have faster read and write speeds, resulting in improved performance and faster boot times
- HDDs offer more storage space at a lower cost, but have slower read and write speeds
With these tips and tricks, you’re now ready to upgrade the storage on your Dell Latitude 7480. Remember to follow the steps carefully and take precautions to avoid any damage. Good luck!
It’s important to note that while SSDs offer faster performance, they can be more expensive than HDDs. However, the cost difference has decreased in recent years, making SSDs a more viable option for those looking to upgrade their storage. Additionally, SSDs have no moving parts, making them more durable and less prone to failure than HDDs. Keep these factors in mind when deciding which type of storage to choose for your Dell Latitude 7480.
