How to Install a New Second SATA HD in Win XP

Files are getting bigger and bigger, and hard drives with more capacity are needed. Some users will buy a large hard drive to replace an existing hard drive, or they may buy and install a second hard drive to coexist with the first hard drive. Attaching a second SATA hard disk is fairly simple with Windows XP.

Things You'll Need

• SATA hard disk
• SATA data cable
• Power connection
• Molex to SATA power adapter (optional)

Instructions

Install the SATA Hard Drive

1. Check for an open hard drive bay. This is where your new SATA hard drive will be located. Check to see how the drive will be fastened--usually either by rails or screws. Prepare your hard drive by attaching rails or have the installation screws available.

2. Find the data cable connection. You need to have an extra SATA data connection on either the motherboard or on an added PCI SATA card or RAID controller. The SATA connection will have seven pins in a straight row, with a small right-angle turn at one end that keeps you from plugging the cable in backwards.

3. Attach the data cable to the hard drive and the motherboard. Use an SATA cable to attach the hard drive to the motherboard. The connection is keyed so it can only be attached one way. Press the connections together firmly. You should feel a little click when they are attached properly.

4. Find the power connection. The older four-pin Molex power cord from the motherboard can be connected either directly to the hard drive, or you can use an adapter for a Molex to SATA power connection. If possible, trace the power line from the first SATA drive back to the motherboard--that is where a second power line is likely to be found. Make sure you only attach one power line to the SATA hard drive. Follow manufacturer's instructions on how to attach the power to the hard drive.

5. Place the hard drive in the drive bay, and attach it using either rails or screws. Don't over tighten the screws--they only have to be tight enough to dampen vibrations. Replace the computer cover.

6. Turn on the computer. Replace the cover and external power plug and start Windows XP. The drive should be auto-detected and show up under "My Computer." Windows XP will "detect new hardware" and you can partition and format the drive through Windows XP. You can rename the drive letter, boot order and access other options through the BIOS utility. Refer to your computer manufacturer's instructions for how to access and change your BIOS settings.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the PC is turned off, unplugged and grounded when you install the SATA hard drive.

• There are two different types of power connections--make sure you only attach one or you may burn out the new drive, or worse.

References

• Installing a Second SATA HD