My Acer Nitro AN515-55 has completely stopped working, and the display is also dead, so I can't access anything normally. It contains two SSDs with important and sentimental files. I was in the middle of transferring those files to an external USB drive when the laptop failed. What's the safest way to remove the SSDs and copy the data to another computer? Do I need the exact product number to identify the right adapters?
2 Answers
First, take the drives out carefully. The AN515-55 may have an M.2 NVMe SSD, a 2.5-inch SATA drive, or both depending on the configuration, so check the connectors before buying anything. A matching USB enclosure is usually the simplest option for each drive.
Remove the SSDs from the laptop and connect them to another computer. Depending on the drive type, you can use a USB-to-SATA adapter or an external enclosure, or install the drives directly into a desktop with compatible slots. Then copy the files normally.
Are USB-to-SATA adapters generally universal, or do I need to look for a specific type?
The main thing is identifying whether the drives are 2.5-inch SATA SSDs or M.2 NVMe drives. NVMe drives need a different USB enclosure or adapter, but those are also widely available.
NVMe USB enclosures are fairly inexpensive and let you use the removed SSD like a fast external drive. If opening the laptop feels uncomfortable, a repair shop can remove the drives without risking damage.