Corsair One i145 M.2 NVME SSD Replacement

Written By: Scott Larson

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Corsair One i145 M.2 NVME SSD Replacement

Difficulty

Moderate

Steps

Time Required

20 minutes

Introduction

The following replacement guide details how to properly replace the OEM Samsung PM981 M.2 NVME SSD. Because this involves replacing internal parts of your computer, this could void any remaining warranty. This replacement is a delicate procedure, there is not much room in this case, and I had to use a Needle-Nose Locking Pliers to help me remove the power connectors from the Graphics Card. You can damage the connectors, the Graphics Card, or other parts of the components, or case If you are not careful. The first part of this guide details how to remove the Graphics Card to get at the M.2 SSD. Please make sure that the Corsair One is powered off and disconnected from the wall. Additionally, ensure you’re careful with the components, as they are incredibly fragile.

Tools

9' Needle-Nose Locking Plier

Parts

Step 1

The button only releases the fan assembly, it does not eject it.
Press the button located on the back side upper part of the case.
Use a Spudger Tool to help lift the top of the fan assembly. I found that this works better by raising the fan from the top front side of the case, instead of the rear front where the button is located.

Step 2

When opening the panel, and resting the panel on the table, be careful not to put stress on the tubing connected to the heatsink attached to the panel.
Disconnect the top assembly/fan power connector from its housing and remove it.
Look down into the unit and locate the graphics card. Orientate the unit so that you are opening the side that contains the graphics card.
Remove the two screws from that side.
As the panel is hooked in from the bottom and the water cooling tubes from the graphics card are attached to the panel with the radiator, take care in pulling the top part of the panel towards you like you are opening a mailbox and let the panel rest flat on the table.

Step 3

Due to the limited space available A tool was required to help remove the power connectors. Using pliers to remove connectors that are usually removed by hand can damage your device if you are not careful. Proceed with caution.
Be careful NOT to rock the connector toward/away from you as that can break or bend the connections to the mainboard.
You might need to cut one more wire straps (white) to allow the power connectors to be removed from their housing or for the Graphics Card to be tilted out of the case. Be really careful not to cut any wires when removing the straps.
Use a spudger to slightly lift the connector hooks that are locking the power connectors in place and very carefully, use a 9in Needle-Nose Locking Pliers set to the lowest tension with enough grip to help you slowly and carefully rock the two power connectors gently up and down to pull the connectors out of their housings.
Remove the top and bottom screws that are holding the graphics card in-place

Step 4

Unscrew the PCIe connector so that the connector is loose from the mount.
Slide the PCIe slot off of the connector by hand. Start at the top to gain a little leverage to get the connector started and then leverage the bottom. The connector needs to be removed entirely from the slot gently.