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Tune-up: How to install a DVD or CD burner
Tune-up: How to install a DVD or CD burner
Step 2: Document cable connections
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 Make a note of your system's current cable connections before unplugging anything. Snapping a photo or two for reference is a good idea. |
Your system's boot drive probably occupies the master position on the primary ATA channel. Your optical drive may act as slave on the same channel or occupy the master position on the secondary ATA channel. If the hard drive and the optical drive share the primary channel, one ribbon cable will connect the two; otherwise you'll see separate ribbon cables running to each, as with both our test systems.
Your new drive should work fine as the master or the slave on either channel. If your configuration allows, set the newer drive as master on the secondary ATA channel to ensure optimal performance.
Snapping a photo or two of your PC's interior with a digital camera provides a "before" shot that may serve as a useful reminder later.
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