Installing optical drive in a HP Slim Desktop

[PapaMTE]

 I am going to install an optical drive in my new Slim Desktop, but the drive doesn't come with the release latch. I have ordered a 9.5mm optical drive and don't have the latch already. I looked for it on Amazon and they show one, but I'm not sure if it is the right one. Also, I have installed aftermarket ram modules that have covers that slightly bend the bottom of the docking compartment and need to relieve the height of the ram module to give clearance inside the compartment for the drive.

 Anybody have answers for my dilemma?

[Sneha_01 · Accepted solution]

Hi @PapaMTE 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

It sounds like you're working on installing a 9.5mm optical drive in your HP Slim Desktop and encountering two issues:

1. Missing release latch for the optical drive
2. Interference between the RAM modules and the optical drive due to clearance issues

Here’s how to tackle both of these:

1. Release Latch for Optical Drive

The release latch is a common feature on optical drives, especially in pre-built or OEM desktops like HP Slim models, and it's necessary to remove the drive from the compartment later. If your new optical drive didn’t come with one, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Latch Compatibility: The latch is typically designed to fit the specific type and model of the optical drive bay in your desktop. If the model you’ve ordered doesn’t have one, you'll need to ensure you’re purchasing a latch that matches the form factor of both your desktop and the drive.
  • Before buying the latch: Verify if your optical drive has a slot or hook for the latch to attach to. If it doesn’t, it may not need a latch, but you’ll need to manually eject the drive.
  • Amazon Latch: If you're seeing a latch on Amazon, ensure it’s compatible with 9.5mm slim optical drives. Sometimes the latches are sold as universal or specific to brands like HP or Dell. Check the product description carefully to ensure it mentions compatibility with your model or the size of the drive (9.5mm).
    • HP parts: If possible, try searching for specific HP parts, as these are designed to work seamlessly with your HP Slim Desktop. HP may even sell the latch as a separate accessory.

2. RAM Clearance Issue

It sounds like the aftermarket RAM modules you’ve installed are causing interference with the optical drive compartment. Here’s how you can resolve this:

Reducing RAM height:
If the RAM is slightly bending or obstructing the drive bay, you might want to consider either replacing the RAM with a low-profile kit or adjusting the position of the RAM sticks.

• Low-profile RAM: You can look into purchasing low-profile RAM that has a shorter height, which may help alleviate the issue without needing to modify anything else in the system.
• Slot Adjustment: If your motherboard has more than one RAM slot, try moving your RAM to a different position to allow more space for the optical drive.

Clearing the RAM with the Drive:
If you don’t want to replace the RAM, you can also try adding spacers or small shims around the drive bay to create additional clearance. However, be careful not to bend or damage the motherboard, as this could void your warranty or cause other issues.

Alternative: If you are certain the optical drive will fit, you might not need to worry about clearance for the RAM as much. Depending on the size of the compartment, the optical drive may still fit even with minimal clearance issues.

 

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support

[PapaMTE]

Yes, I'm installing a 9,5 inch optical drive in my Slimline PC. The ram modules I removed and got the covering off exposing the bare module. This fixed the interfearance issue. The bay frame wasn't truly bent so it didn't interefere with the installation.

 I ordered the latch from an EBay seller who shipped them very fast. I installed the drive with no issues, except the tigt space to hooking up the power and drive connectors. All is well, and the drive works just fine.