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General discussion

HD Connection Problems.

Sep 24, 2006 3:06AM PDT

Hi:

We recently purchased a Dell Dimension 5150/E510. We upgraded from a Dimension 4400. I was told by one of Dell's excellent representitives that I would have no problems being able to use some of the components off the 4400 on the 5150. I specifically mentioned the HD and was assured it would work. HA!

The 5150 comes with the SATA HD. Not compatible with the 4400's HD at all. This concerned me quite a bit as every Dell we have ever owned had a HD problem and needed to be replaced after losing all the info on it. So, for preventitive measures, I want the 2nd HD for back up.

I purchased a new SATA HD and went to plug it in. There are 2 cables to it's current HD. The wider one (power) had an extension on it for a 2nd HD. The other didn't. I contacted Dell to see if there was a special cable needed. No, I just needed to get a 2nd cable, and I'd be good to go. The receptical for the 2nd cable is on the board, next to the one for the 1st. Okay, sounds simple.

Well, after hooking everything up, I'm not showing the 2nd HD. If I switch the cables, it reads the new HD, but of course it's blank. XP is new to me, and of course, everything they change to make easier, is actually harder. Is there a way to check if that 2nd receptical is even alive? Is there some way to figure out what's up since Dell is of no help (not surprising). We really can't afford the $90.00 an hour for professional help.

TIA
Ugg

Discussion is locked

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Is the BIOS enabled for the 2nd HDD ?? Take a look and
Sep 24, 2006 5:16AM PDT

let us know.

The drive must be connected to both a power and a data cable.

VAPCMD

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Yes
Sep 24, 2006 8:34PM PDT

Hi VAPCMD:

Yes, the power cable that came with the computer had a 2nd plug for an additional HD. How do I check to see if the BIOS is enabled? If not, how is it enabled? I may have a vauge recollection (as the cobwebs in my brain are stirring) on how to do that, but it's not something I've done recently or for a LONG while.

TIA
Ugg

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For most Dells I've seen you hit "F2" early during the
Sep 25, 2006 11:03AM PDT

bootup. If you check your system manual ...you should be able to find BIOS options for enabling or disabling
onboard devices.

VAPCMD

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Okay.
Sep 26, 2006 12:58AM PDT

Hi VAPCMD:

I'll check it out. It seems I've discovered other issues with this "NEW" machine, and will probably need to call Dell's tech support, which means "REFORMAT THE HARD DRIVE" (Dell's solution to everything). 8&gtSad

Thanks
Ugg

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Sorry to hear...let us know how it turns out.
Sep 26, 2006 7:45AM PDT

VAPCMD