Installing Hard drive (step by step build a computer)

STEP 15: Install Hard Drive and Floppy Drive   

After we know our main components are working after doing our quick power up test, we can finish building the computer. We are going to configure all of the drives, and install them in the case. 

Installing the Hard Drive

1. Remove the hard drive from its packaging/anti static bag.
   
   
2. Select where you want to place the hard drive within the case, usually there are a couple of spots labeled 'HDD' where the hard drive is intended to go.
   
   
3. On the top of the hard drive, there should be a diagram telling you how to jumper the drive for installation.
   
   
4. If this is your only hard drive, and it is an SATA type drive, then you can set the drive as 'master'. Follow the diagram and place the jumper across the pins to make this setting. Many times leaving a jumper off completely will default the drive as master.
   
   
5. If you are installing an IDE type drive with another IDE hard drive or DVD/CD rom drive on the same cable, then set your jumper for master or cable select. Cable select means the computer will auto configure it for you. If you do set the drive to master, make sure you set the other drive you are installing on the same cable to 'slave' by setting the jumper correctly.
   
   
6. Once you have the drive jumpered and setup correctly, push it into the slot you want and line up the screw holes with the case. Make sure to leave the back to attach connections open, so you will want this facing to the rear.
   
   
7. Attach the four screws to the case and you are set!

Installing the Floppy Drive

It is not as necessary as it used to be to have a floppy drive installed in your computer, but we recommend having one. If you did buy one follow the steps below:

1. Remove the floppy drive from its packaging/anti static bag.
   
   
2. You should have already removed the front cover of where you want it to go, so slide the floppy into the case from the front in your designated open bay.
   
   
3. Line up the holes with the drive and the case, and make sure the floppy drive is flush with the front edge of the case.
   
   
4. Attach the screws to the case to secure the drive.