How to Install an XP SATA DVD Drive
Installing a SATA DVD drive on a Windows XP-based computer shouldn't be too intimidating. All the parts are modular and plug in place. XP recognizes new hardware automatically and helps you make the correct choices for setting up the drive the first time you boot up.
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Things You'll Need
- SATA controller or PC motherboard with on-board SATA connection
- Screwdrivers and needle-nosed pliers or computer tool kit
- DVD drive installation disk
Instructions
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1
Turn off your PC and unplug all the cables. Unscrew the cover of the PC if necessary and remove the cover to expose the inside of the case. Find a place on the drive rack to slide in the DVD drive and screw it into place in the rack.
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2
Plug an unused power cord from the internal power supply into the power connection on the back of the DVD drive. Plug the red SATA cord into the SATA data socket on the back of the drive. Connect the other end of the SATA cord to a SATA plug-in on the motherboard. If there is no SATA connection on the motherboard, see Step 3.
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3
Install a SATA controller card in an empty PCI-Express slot on the motherboard. Plug the card into the slot and screw the keeper screw on the front of the card into the top of the slot. Plug the SATA data plug from the DVD drive into the connector on the slot.
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4
Check connectors form other drives and components to make sure you haven't accidentally loosened one during physical installation of the drive. Replace the PC cover and tighten the screws. Reconnect all the peripheral cords and power cord.
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5
Turn on the computer and boot it up. When the desktop comes up, select "My Computer" and make sure there is an icon in it for the new DVD drive you installed. If there is no icon, then XP has not recognized the drive automatically. You'll have to reboot the computer and open CMOS to change the settings.
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6
Follow the instructions for opening the CMOS setup with your specific computer. You'll find it in the manual. Open the CMOS setup from the main window and check the ATA channels to make sure the CMOS selections match the setup you are using. Close the CMOS window.
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7
Restart the computer. XP should automatically set the drive for the XP operating system and will set your drive so that it uses digital CD playback. Check "My Computer" again to verify that the computer sees the new drive. Click on "Properties," then "Hardware," then "Device Manager." You should find an icon for the DVD player in the last folder.
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8
Insert the installation disk into the drive. It should spool up automatically and offer a setup window. If it doesn't do it automatically, open the drive and select the setup icon. Install any drivers or special software that's called for.
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References
- Photo Credit dvd laser image by .shock from Fotolia.com
