Installing the hard drive

Pt. 6 of 10 | 3:46 |

How Do I build a PC

Monday October 18, 2010

In order to

save files on your computer

, you're going to need to

install a hard drive

. In this episode, we explain some of the different

hard drive specifications

and also talk a bit about

RAID configurations

. Depending on the motherboard and the case you picked to

build your computer

with, you may also be able to install multiple hard drives.

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Show Notes

- Your hard drive holds all of your files, folders, programs and anything else that is stored while your PC is off.

- New hard drives use SATA connections that use edge connectors. Our hard drive has one edge connector for data transfer and one for power.

- Most new motherboards can support more than one drive, either individually or in RAID configuration.

- You'll want to be aware of the spindle speed as 7200 rpm drives are faster than 5400 rpm drives, but generate more heat.

- You will also want to be aware of the buffer size of the drive, which increases reliability but also increases cost.

- Slide the hard drive into one of the bays in your case and screw the hard drive into place.

- You'll have to connect the data cable to the motherboard and connect the power supply to your hard drive.

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