"Tech is great... when it works the way it's supposed to". I can't tell you how many times I have heard (and said) that phrase. That's true not just of software, but also hardware. As hardware ages, it's almost inevitable that it will break or degrade to the point that it will need to be repaired or replaced. One of the most common computer components that has potential to fail after a relatively short life-span is a hard drive.
Upgrading high-tech components for most people is a daunting task... one that is jusitfiably feared. Fortunately, it doesn't have to be that way. There are a lot of resources available to make this task a lot easier.
IFixIt is a company dedicated to making such repairs easy (or at least easier) by providing incredibly easy-to-follow instructions for just about anything you need to repair or replace (by the way, they don't just core repairing high-tech hardware, but a massive amount of other products from couch cushions to sewing machines).
Naturally, most repairs are not done in a clean lab with anti-static floor mats and a perfect ventilation system. I make repairs in the field all the time, so I need repair instructions easily accessible. Enter the free IFixIt app for iOS (iPad and iPhone). You will experience the app's clean design before you even get to the content.
To begin a repair, tap "Start a Repair". At this point, you are free to browse their catalog of products they offer repair instructions for.
When you're ready to find something specific, tap on "Repair Manuals" at the bottom of the screen, then "Browse" at the top of the screen. This will give you a list of categories to choose from. You can also search for the specific item using the search feature.
For example, if I needed to find instructions for replacing a hard drive in a 27" iMac, I would search for "27 iMac". After I have located the item I'm looking for, I simply tap to select. I will then be presented with a list of components available for repair (notice "Hard Drive" in the middle of the list).
Before you begin the repair, you will be given a list of tools that will be required. If you have the tools, great! If not, IFixIt sells them (their instructions are free... the tools will cost you). Let me just say one thing about their tools... they are top quality. I've purchased several sets of various tools, and have no complaints.
When you have the tools, it's time to get to work! Simply swipe to step 1 and begin. As mentioned before, their instructions are clearly and concise. Below is an example set of instructions:
