Manuals for Build AdviceLaptop might not be completely reliable.
Manuals for Build AdviceLaptop might not be completely reliable.
Laptop: HP 17-ca1010ng
My wife's computer features a 512 GB M.2 storage unit that is almost full, prompting me to consult the user manual to determine if it’s feasible to add another SSD. The guide mentions that a 2.5" HD or a 2.5" SSD can be installed. I purchased a WD 2 TB SSD from an online retailer and proceeded with the installation. Upon opening the laptop, I found a slot for the drive, but there were no SATA ports available. I even took out the battery to confirm—nothing worked. This experience was quite frustrating. My choices were clear: 1) I have a USB HD/SSD docking station, allowing me to transfer files to an older HDD (though I’d prefer the new SSD for another project). 2) I could buy a larger M.2 drive and reinstall it, which would require cloning or reinstalling Windows. 3) I might pay Google to store more of her files on Google Drive, though this would cost 10 Euros per month for the extra 2 TB and also act as a backup.
A valuable lesson: always inspect the laptop yourself before buying any additional hardware.
The instructions specify using the exclusive cable L22526-001 and the heatsink cover L22534-001 for installing a 7mm tall 2.5" drive. These parts are not part of the standard laptop setup.
The manual is fine. The issue lies in not performing proper checks and ensuring all necessary cables were available or ordered prior to installation.
Thank you both for the details. Because I’m only interested in HP original components, I found out they total between 140 and 150 Euros. That matches the price I paid for the WD 2 TB SSD. Upgrading storage would then cost around 300 Euros, which isn’t worth it for a laptop I bought for 500 Euros in 2020.
You can purchase second-hand, authentic HP components on eBay from individuals who refurbish old, genuine HP computers. These items cost the same as new aftermarket parts, roughly €10 each.
Not to be considered disrespectful, have you checked the "User's Guide"? It doesn’t mention upgrading the drives. In the "Maintenance and Service Guide" on pages 44-47, only parts and part numbers are listed. There are no specifications for the HP 17-ca1010ng. The description PDF for that model also doesn’t reference upgrade requirements. Additionally, it isn’t stated whether the HP 17-ca1010ng would need any components from pages 44-47 to be upgraded to 2.5" drives.
There is no information on HP’s website—whether in 2020 or today—that says if a 2.5" drive was installed without an HP cover and cable.
Over the years, I’ve upgraded several laptops and never found one with a drive bay but no connectors for installation. This was unusual for me.
What you’re missing here is the context of this post. I’m just trying to remind users that older laptops might lack the manufacturer’s guidance or website details needed for upgrades. I made this post because I’m not alone in reading manuals and making decisions based on what they say—or don’t say.