Cannot open the expansion bay

[claudia80]

I bought a desktop computer. HP Pavilion Elite HPE-510y Desktop PC. It has an expansion bay but it does not open when i push the button. What is the expansion bay for? I never used it and would like to know if maybe it has a problem so I can return it before the warranty expires.

Thank you.

[Rocksuperstar]

An expansion bay is simply an empty slot reserved for whatever you want to put in it, usually a second optical drive. The reason it doesn't open is because there's nothing in there.

No need to send it back, no problem, just a well disguised empty space.

[claudia80]

Thank you.

one more question so how can i put something in there. not that i want to but just wondering.

[Rocksuperstar]

Don't know the actual layout of your particular case, but usually you have to remove the side panel to connect and insert the new hardware into the expansion bay, removing any blanking plates in the front panel in the process. The eject button i can see from a screenie of your unit is just a very simple mechanism that pushes against the most common spot on the front of CD drives where the eject button is usually sat, hence the reason it does nothing atm.

If you're ever curious about the innards of your machine then why not take the side panel off and have a look around? Just be careful touching anything rectangular and black or hot and shiny, you'll be fine.

[claudia80]

Thanks for the info.

[davidgeorge]

the expansion bay does not open

[Big_Dave]

Hi,

The expansion bay is typically used for a second optical drive. When you push the button, the optical drive tray button will cause the tray to push open the expansion bay door.  Most HP PCs are not shipped with two optical drives.  This service manual will give you some insight into replacing/adding an optical drive.

You should be able to use your finger and grab the expansion bay door just above the button and pull it forward to inspect the bay.