With the SATA data transfer specification quickly replacing the EIDE standard, it is becoming more and more imperative that computer users understand connect SATA hard drives to their computing solutions. Luckily, connecting a SATA HDD is an easy procedure which any computer user can perform in just a few minutes.
Instructions
1. Disconnect your computer from any electrical sources.
2. Remove your computer's side access panel. This may require loosening two thumbscrews on the rear face of the computer's case.
3. Locate your SATA HDD if it is already mounted. If not, select a free hard drive bay and slide your SATA HDD into it.
4. Connect a SATA power connector from your power supply unit to the SATA HDD. This connector is a flat plug-style connector and connects to the leftmost connector on the rear face of the SATA HDD.
5. Connect a SATA data cable to the rear face of the SATA HDD. This cable is also a flat plug style connector that is keyed in a manner opposite to that of the data connector. It connects immediately to the right of the power connector.
6. Locate a free SATA data port on your motherboard and plug the free end of the SATA data cable to it. The SATA connectors are usually located near one of the corners of the motherboard nearest the bottom of the computer's case and are labeled on the motherboard for identification. Refer to your specific hardware's documentation for exact SATA connector placements.
7. Replace your computer's side access panel and plug the system in to the power source.
Tags: SATA data, rear face, your computer, access panel, computer case, computer side, computer side access