Cables

First thing to do before installing your hard drive is to check if your computer supports IDE ( also known as parallel ATA ) which is an older cable type seen in older systems, or if you have purchased your computer in the last couple years, it is most likely Serial ATA. If you are not sure open your computer case and check your cable. The older IDE drive uses a wide flat ribbon cable, and Serial ATA is a thinner cable.

Power Supply

Next you need to check your power supply and cables. If you are installing your hard drive as a secondary drive, simply follow any power cable back to the power supply and see if there are any unused leads. Finally, identify an empty bay to locate your new hard drive and make sure your power cable and data cables are able to properly reach this.

While the case is open, take the opportunity to clean your computer as the dust picked up by your fans can increase the system’s working temperature, affect performance and potentially damage sensitive components. A great way to get rid of the dust is to use compressed air which you can purchase at your local computer store.