
The hard drive, for example, can be removed and set on its protective cover for easy replacement. Keep all internal components with the covers that secure them. Remove the covers for individual components, such as the hard drive and the memory, from the bottom of the laptop. It is very risky to operate a laptop with missing screws because internal parts are held in place partly by pressure from a secure cover. Place the screws in a cup or container for safekeeping, as they can roll off the table and become lost. For example, Dell laptops are secured with 24 screws on the back cabinet, including two screws that secure the cover for the hard drive.

Most laptop computers are secured with at least 12 screws.

Remove the Phillips-head screws at the four corners and at other sealed points on the bottom of the laptop. Remove the battery, typically by moving a latch to the left then lifting the battery out of the bottom of the laptop or by sliding it out of the outer edge of the laptop.
