PCI slots on a motherboard
PCI SATA adapters allow for additional SATA ports that have a dedicated communications channel and disk controller to be installed in a computer. These adapters support various versions of RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) depending on their specifications and require installation and setup prior to use. Installation of these cards is identical to the installation of other PCI cards. Setup preparations for use as a RAID adapter requires only driver installation after the physical installation.
Instructions
1. Disconnect the computer from all electrical sources and remove the case's side access panel.
2. Locate a vacant PCI slot in which to insert the SATA adapter. PCI slots are located in the lower-left corner of the motherboard directly below the main I/O ports, such as the USB, Ethernet, and eSATA ports. PCI slots are white in color and possess no locking mechanisms on either end like PCI-e and AGP slots. The motherboard often has identifying labels printed beside them such as "PCI_0."
3. Insert the I/O blade of the SATA adapter into the PCI slot. This blade has an array of gold-plated contacts and can only be inserted into the PCI socket in one orientation.
4. Connect the SATA data cables from the hard drives you wish to use in the RAID array.
5. Replace the side access panel and reconnect all power sources.
6. Boot into the computer's operating system.
7. Install the SATA adapter's driver software that accompanied the SATA adapter. During this driver installation, you will be guided through the process of choosing the RAID disks and desired configuration.
Tags: SATA adapter, access panel, driver installation, side access, side access panel, slots motherboard