How to Install a CD ROM or DVD Drive

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Do you want to upgrade your CD or DVD drive, or install another one? This article will show you how to do that.

Steps

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    Most drives use "Master" as the default setting.
    • If the CD/DVD drive will be an extra one, set the jumper setting to "Slave".
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    • For IDE drives, align pin 1 (the red edge) to the connector on the CD/DVD drive. Then connect the 4-pin power connector to the drive.
    • For SATA drives, align the notch to the connector on the drive. Then connect the SATA power connector (the long one) to the drive.
    • If there is little space, connect the cable before fully securing the drive into the bay.
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    • It runs from the drive's audio-out pins to the CD-IN connector on your sound card.
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    Your computer's BIOS should recognize the new CD/DVD drive.
    • Windows will install the drivers required for the operation of the new CD/DVD drive.
    • Open My Computer and you will see the drive.
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  • Question
    I am trying to install a library cd-rom for research. Two days ago I returned my ASUS laptop to factory settings, but kept all the files. Now the computer will not even register that I have put the disc in. What can I do?
    Community Answer
    Reset the BIOS to default, then reboot. It's a common problem, that should fix it.
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  • Question
    How do I play a CD in it after it's installed?
    Community Answer
    Assuming the installation went well, it's very simple. Open the drive, put the CD in the drive, close the drive, and play the CD with the media player application of your choice.
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  • Question
    Why won't my computer detect the CD drive?
    Community Answer
    It could be a number of things, but some steps to try are rebooting your system fully (as in a full shutdown and then back on) and checking your cables.
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