What you will learn is not all machines support today's new big drives.
http://www.48bitlba.com notes why this is so.
Sorry to see someone get derailed on ATA-100 and not the real issue.
A workaround to getting a big drive on such a machine is to put the drive in an USB 2.0 connected housing.
Bob
Hello, everyone. I am back again-- unfortunately.
I posted a thread a short while ago asking about what I needed to know to upgrade my computer (Compaq 5bw130) with a new hard drive. But now I've come up with a new problem.
Upon research I came across a post that claimed that I wouldn't be able to add a 7200rpm/ATA-100 drive in my computer at all, because of the "BIOS" not being able to deal with it. The tech guy saying this claimed it had something to do with the motherboard and processor (Celeron, instead of Pentium). One of the models he lists as not being able to be upgraded with this type drive is my model. I don't want to quote another site, but I'll link to the message here --> http://www2.geek.com/cgi-bin/discus//show.cgi?tpc=196&post=46478#POST46478
Does this sound right?
I know, you're probably asking, "Well, why don't you just go to the official site?" Well, I went to customer service with this very specific question and instead was given a form response "advising" me to go to an HP "seller" in my area if I wanted the hard drive upgraded. Well, I don't want to go to an "HP seller", because I want the freedom to choose what brand hard drive I want for my computer.
I know you're probably asking as well, "Just buy a new computer." To that, I say, "I don't want or need a new computer. I'm not a hardcore gamer or high end software user."
Lastly, you're probably asking, "Well, why go with ATA-100 drive?" Well, they appear to be less expensive and more readily available.
What's your takes on this? I'm asking for a second opinion.
Thanks.

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