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Question

Can I connect a Sata External to the motherboard SATA plug?

Sep 23, 2014 1:04PM PDT

I have an Iomega E- SATA external HDD that used an E-Sata card in a PCI slot in my previous computer. My new computer, does not have any slots for the card and 5 SATA ports for additional drives on the motherboard.
Can I get a SATA cable and connect the drive to the motherboard and use the power cord as well? (i.e. - the derive would be powered by plugging it into a wall outlet and not using a 4 pin power connector that typically powers internal drive.)
I would ruin the SATA cable through one of the slots at the rear of the machine to the drive.

Thanks!

Discussion is locked

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Answer
Sure. But your risk.
Sep 23, 2014 1:10PM PDT
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Answer
Install a SATA Drive
Sep 24, 2014 9:52PM PDT

SATA is the new standard for connecting components inside of your computer. I can explain 3 way to installing a desktop SATA hard drive:
Power down your computer: Turn off the power switch on the back of the case and remove the side panel. Most cases have thumbscrews, but older cases may require the use of a screw driver to open. Many cases will require you to remove both panels in order to secure the hard drive, though some have removable housings.
Ground yourself: Before you begin working on the interior of your computer, make sure you discharge any electrostatic charge you may have. If your computer is still plugged into the wall (with the switch off), you can touch any of the exposed metal of the case to discharge. You can also touch a water tap to discharge your electrostatic charge.
The safest way to work inside of a computer is to wear an antistatic wrist strap while working on the computer.
Find the hard drive bay: The location will vary depending on the case, but it can typically be found beneath the optical drive bay. If you are upgrading or replacing a hard drive, you should see one already installed.
Disconnect the old hard drive (if replacing): Locate the HDD you wish to replace and disconnect each of the two cables coming out from the rear of the drive.

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Answer
What Mfg, Series and Model is your new PC.?
Sep 25, 2014 8:31AM PDT

Hard to imagine ANY new PC without an external SATA port.

VAPCMD

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I think Robert probably given the OP...
Sep 25, 2014 4:19PM PDT

the solution already. But did you notice this sentence there, "I would ruin the SATA cable through one of the slots at the rear of the machine to the drive"? Whatever that mean.

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I didn't explain that well.
Sep 26, 2014 2:07AM PDT
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(NT) Your call....let us know it works out.
Sep 26, 2014 9:56AM PDT