How to Install a DVD Burner in a Home Computer

Installing a DVD burner in a home computer is a task anyone with a simple understanding of electronic assembly can undertake. This is one of the easiest home computer upgrades a PC user can complete. A DVD burner can add value to a PC and can serve as a useful tool for data or video storage.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• DVD burner
• Software and drivers
• Screwdriver

1. Ensure that the computer is completely off, discharged and unplugged.

2. Open the computer case by removing screws at the rear corners or thumbscrews on the rear side. Each case may be different. Obtain entry into the case enclosure.

3. Remove the ribbon cable from the rear of the existing CD or CD recorder. Leave the ribbon cable attached to the computer motherboard if the DVD burner's manufacturer supplied no new ribbon cable.

4. Disconnect the power cable from the existing CD or CD recorder. This will be a four-wired connector usually at the left rear of the component.

5. Remove any CD audio cable from the rear of the existing component. This cable is usually located at the right rear.

6. Remove any retaining screws or brackets from existing component. Slide unit out of computer.

7. Insert DVD burner into open slot.

8. Connect ribbon cable to rear of the DVD burner.

9. Connect DVD audio cable to the rear of the DVD burner.

10. Connect power supply cable to the rear of the DVD burner.

11. Install any DVD burner drivers or software provided with DVD burner unit.

Tips & Warnings

• Refer to the DVD burner's manual for best results.
• Wear a protective ESD (electrostatic discharge) strap when working with electronic components.
• Ensure that the computer has no power to the unit.
• Connect all cables correctly and replace any frayed or damaged cable.