Can I install my WD 2TB External hard drive into my Compaq Presario wit windows 7?

[guygotribe]

I have a 2TB WD External Hard drive. I accidentally plugged my laptop power cable into it. It lights up, but will not connect to my PC or laptop. I am told my info is all there, and I can install the drive into my PC. Is this true? How do I do it? ...and What will I need?
I have a Compaq Presario 500GB HD with Windows7.
The WD hard drive is the one two sections of connectors on the right side of the unit. From center, the first set has 7 gold contacts, and to the right and 15 gold contacts.

http://bychaw.blogspot.com/2011/02/how-to-take-apart-your-wd-elements.html
Or can I just replace the Power unit that inserts on the front, and is held on by four screws and two plates? That might be easier. Either way or both would be nice to know about.

Thank you.
Guy

 

[i7Baby]

Pull the drive out of its case and see if it has sata ports. If so, you'll be sweet.

 

[guygotribe]

http://support.wdc.com/images/kb/Connections/SATA%20SecureConnect%20Port.jpg
This is what I have. I am a novice here. Is this good? Thank you Grandmaster.

 

[rhysiam]

Most external bays are accessible with a phillips head screwdriver. It should be simple to remove the drive.

You can then just borrow (temporarily) the power and SATA cables from your CD/DVD drive in your compaq and plug them in the WD 2TB drive. Booting to Windows should expose the (formerly) external drive. If not, just open disk management and assign the drive a letter and you're good to go.

 

[rhysiam]

Oh, I should say... don't go plugging/unplugging any cables from your computer until it's powered off will you!?

Sorry if that was extremely condescending, just better to mention it and risk patronizing than not mention it and risk damaging things!

 

[i7Baby]

Looks like a sata port to me. Put a power supply sata power cable on it. And put a sata data cable to it from a motherboard port.