EggXpert

I currently have a Toshiba MK3021GAS 30GB Laptop Hard Drive (here the link for the specs: http://www.superwarehouse.com/Toshiba_MK3021GAS_30GB_Laptop_Hard_Drive/HDD2181/ps/229316 ) and would like to put in a Western Digital Scorpio WD1600BEVS 160GB ( here's teh link for the specs: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16822136071 ) from New egg. The computer itself is a Dell Inspiron 1150, (here are the specs: http://reviews.cnet.com/laptops/dell-inspiron-1150/4507-3121_7-30825072.html ). However there are a couple things that I don't understand and can't seem to find anything to get a better explination such as what's the form factor? If I were to purchase this new HD would it even work wit my laptop? I saw that there are sever different styles to connecting and i need to get the right one. If anyone could help me out or give me a better HD recommendation for one that will work with my laptop I would greatly appriciate it.

If they have the same form factor, they have the same size. That HDD will not work. You must have ATA-100 hard drives.

you should choose hdd with ide interface like these:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=2010150380+1035907889&name=ATA-6 

Thank you for your reply. I've looked at the link you provided but none of the hard drives have the same connection style as the one I pulled out of the  laptop. I've attached a picture of my hard drive. will those other hard drives with the pins still work with my machine?

well I thought I attached a picture. I'll try again hopefully it'll work this time

yes, it seems that the interface is   ATA-100 - 44 pin IDC . i thought all the ata 100 interfaces  for laptop are 44 pins  but some of them are 40 pin  dunno maybe 44 pin = 40pin +4pin power connector ?

I have 1100. Had same trouble until I saw your picture. The pinout on the drive is an adaptor which you can remove and place on your new drive as long as it is ata-6 or ata 100. I was had just obtained RMA to send back new drive but once the pinout adapter is placed it fit fine.