How to Install Disk Drives on Dell Desktops
- 1). Unplug your Dell desktop computer. Let the desktop computer sit for one to two minutes to make sure no power is supplied to the computer to reduce the risk the risk of damaging the computer. Disconnect any cables leading to the Dell desktop computer.
- 2). Place the Dell desktop on its side. Remove the side cover from the unit by removing the screws. Some newer Dell computers have thumb screws that can be taken out by hand while others require a Phillips head screwdriver.
- 3). Find the appropriate slot for your disk drive. The term disk drive applies to hard drives, CD-ROM and DVD-ROM drives, as well as floppy disk drives. There are two different sized slots in a Dell desktop computer that you are able to choose from. A 5.5 inch slot bay for CD ROM/DVD ROM drives and 3.5 inch slot bays for hard drives and floppy disk drives.
- 4). Slide the disk drive into the appropriate bay. Make sure the areas where the cables plug in are positioned towards the motherboard. The opposite end looks like a flat piece of metal. Tighten the disk drive into the bay using the screwdriver and the screws provided with your disk drive.
- 5). Connect the cables to your motherboard. You need an Integrated Drive Electronics (IDE) or Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) cable, which may or may not be provided with your disk drive. The type of cable you need is determined by the disk drive. Some drives are IDE while others are SATA - this is stated in the product specifications. An IDE cable resembles a flat ribbon with approximately 20 thin gauge wires as a connector, while a SATA cable a very thin flat or rounded cable with one groove as a connector. Connect the IDE or SATA cable to your disk drive.
- 6). Plug in the appropriate power supply cable to the disk drive. An IDE power supply cable has four holes, while the SATA power cord is a very thin, flat or rounded cable with a one inch piece fitted with one groove as a connector.
- 7). Put the side cover back on the Dell desktop computer. Replace the screws. Reconnect all cables and turn on the computer to make sure the hard disk installation worked. If it did not, the screen will display an error message.
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