Tivos have revolutionized the way that people watch TV, but their built-in hard drives always eventually fail. Anything with moving parts, especially parts as exact as a hard drive, eventually break down. This occasionally makes it necessary to replace the hard drive in your Tivo.
Here’s a guide on how to replace the Tivo’s hard drive, for repairs or upgrades. Be careful when attempting any repairs on your Tivo–you’ll void the warranty by opening the device, and if you’re not careful it could be dangerous. Make sure that you know what you’re doing before attempting this repair.
1. Buy an upgrade drive. There are many websites that offer Tivo upgrade drives, but it’s necessary to buy one of these drives before replacing the hard drive–they’re properly formatted in the correct file system and have essential operating data pre-installed. Unless you’re very handy with a computer, it’s best to simply buy one of these drives, as they don’t cost much more than a typical hard drive.
2. Get a Torx screwdriver. If you have no idea what that is, check out the back of your Tivo. See the screws that don’t look like a Philips or flathead would fit into them? They require a Torx T-10 screwdriver, which you can grab from your local hardware store. If you want, you can detach your Tivo and bring it in to the hardware store to show them exactly what you need. Once you’ve got it, unscrew the screws in the back of the Tivo to open it up. Make sure that the power is disconnected, and ground yourself to avoid any dangerous static discharge.
3. Unplug the power and ribbon cables from the hard drive. You’ll have to use the same Torx screwdriver to remove the screws that attach the hard drive to the Tivo, at which point you’ll be able to remove the hard drive. Try to avoid touching the green electronics board of either hard drive. Now, you’ll simply take off the brackets, attach them to the replacement drive, and put the hard drive back into the Tivo. Securely screw everything back in.
4. Re-setup your Tivo. You’ll have to go through the initial start up procedure again, and your Tivo will have to make a few phone calls to set itself back up with service. Once everything’s set up, you can begin recording and watching your shows again. Simple, isn’t it?
Do you have any tips or questions about Tivo hard drive replacement? Post in our comments section below.
