When installing a new hard drive, a PC may not recognize the hard drive. Incorrect cable installations, jumper settings and BIOS settings may cause the computer to be unable to detect your hard drive. Due to the vast differences in hard drive types (IDE versus SATA) and brands, motherboard brands and types, and BIOS types and configurations, please download or acquire your motherboard and hard drive manufacturers' documentation prior to acquiring a hard drive. Make sure that the type of hard drive you plan to purchase is compatible with the motherboard.
Instructions
1. Shut down the computer. Unplug all cables and peripheral devices.
2. Clip the anti-static wrist bracelet to a metal object, and attach the bracelet to your wrist.
3. Remove the computer's side panel. (Cases vary. Some will require a small Phillips screwdriver for removal and others feature screwless designs. Please see your case manual if you are unsure.)
4. Locate the newly installed hard drive. Check that two cables are running from the hard drive to the motherboard and to the power supply. If you see only one cable or if either of the cables are not securely seated, plug in the appropriate connector(s).
5. Leave the case's side panel off for now. Reconnect the power cable, monitor cable, and keyboard and mouse connections.
6. Restart the computer. Enter your BIOS immediately. (Your BIOS usually alerts you to the key required to adjust settings. If your screen does not show this information or if you are unsure, consult your motherboard manual.)
7. If it is an IDE hard drive, enter the IDE settings. The BIOS should show the hard drive. Configure it as primary or secondary, according to your computer's configuration. (If you have only one drive, set this to primary. Otherwise, set as secondary.)
8. Save your settings, and exit the BIOS. Once you are certain that the the PC is recognizing the hard drive, replace the side panel.
Tags: hard drive, side panel, settings BIOS, your motherboard