The PS3 system software should automatically recognize the external hard drive.
Locate the media on the PS3 you want to back up and copy it to the USB drive.
Failure to unplug the PS3 before opening it up can result in electrical shock and damage to the console.
Remove the PS3 HDD cover.
Move the PS3 console onto its side.
The side with the HDD sticker should be facing up.
The hard drive carriage is secured by one screw.
Gently tug on the hard drive tray and pull straight up to remove it from the PS3 shell.
Secure the new hard drive in the exact position the old hard drive was on the tray.
Slide the tray to its original location.
Replace the single screw and place the HDD cover plate back on the side of the PS3.
Never force or use a large amount of pressure when opening cases or installing new hardware.
The new hard drive should easily slide into place.
Reconnect all cables and turn on the console.
The PS3 will recognize that the hard drive you just installed will need to be formatted.
Hook up the USB drive and move the content you copied earlier from your old hard drive.
Once finished, you’ll have room for plenty of new digital media.
Keep the original PS3 hard drive in a safe place in case anything goes wrong with the new one.
