Add a USB hub to your computer so you'll always have an available port.
Installing an internal USB hub in one of your computer's front drive bays is an inexpensive way to greatly expand your PC's functionality. With so many new electronic devices requiring USB connectivity, adding a USB hub or two will ensure that you always have an available port for your devices.
Instructions
1. Shut down and unplug your computer, and unplug all devices attached to it. Move the computer to an area in which you have ample room to work.
2. Open the computer case. Depending on the model, one side of the case (usually the left) is secured using two or three large "thumb" screws, flat-head screws or Phillips-head screws. Locate these screws at the rear of the case and remove them. Carefully slide the side panel off and place it out of your way.
3. Remove the existing device, if present, from the computer's 3.5-inch drive bay. If the bay is occupied, it most likely contains a floppy disk drive. Unplug any cables running from the device to the motherboard. Depending on the computer model, the device in the 3.5-inch bay is held in place either by plastic rails or by two screws. The rails enable you to slide out the peripheral without a tool. In a screw-fastened setup, remove the two screws located on the left side of the metal bay support cage to release the device.
4. Install the new USB hub. Slide the hub assembly into the empty 3.5-drive bay. Secure using the screws provided with the hub or the rails that were used to hold the previous device in the bay. Locate the USB header pins on the computer's motherboard. The location and arrangement of the USB header pins may vary, depending on your motherboard, but should be clearly labeled "USB." Carefully plug the USB cable from the hub into the motherboard.
5. Reattach and secure the computer's side panel. Plug all peripherals back in, plug the computer into an AC outlet and power it up. Most USB hubs are "plug and play," so it is not necessary to install drivers or software unless the manufacturer recommends doing so.
Tags: your computer, always have, always have available, available port, have available