You invested in a new piece of hardware, a new hard disk drive (HDD), but you don’t know how to install it? Here is a tutorial that will teach you, step by step and easily how to install a hard disk drive. Read the instructions below and you’ll have the new item up and running in no time, with no problems!

PLEASE NOTE: All the instruction below should be performed while your computer is OFF and no electrical power “feeds” the rig.

1. If you are replacing an old HDD drive, make sure that you follow the instructions on the new HDD drive and set it to “MASTER”. If you are installing the new hard disk drive alongside your old one, make sure you set it to “SLAVE” (or Cable select, which is even better if they are on the same line).

2. Carefully place the HDD in the spot designated to hold the hard disk. Make sure to place is in the correct position (the part with writing on should be up) and fix it with the screws. First connect the IDE cable carefully placing it so that the part of it with no holes fits the exact same are on the HDD. Don’t force it if it doesn’t fit, try rotating the cable and insert it into your HDD. Do the same thing with the power supplier (the smaller head, with yellow, black and red cables). Generally, the ideal position is with the read cable to the left. Still, don’t push it if it doesn’t go in easily, but turn it around.

3. Turn on the computer. If you followed these instructions properly, your computer will start. If it is a secondary disk drive you have installed, then your OS will load and everything will run smoothly. If it is a brand new disk that replaced your old one, you will receive the following error message: “System disk not found. Please insert system disk.” announcing that there is no OS (operating system) installed on the hard drive. Just install one, using the purchased DVD and you’ll be ready to roll!

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