Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
If the drive refuses to slide all the way into the bay, verify that the top fan as-
sembly isn't preventing it from doing so, as shown in Figure 4-21. The top ex-
ternal 5.25” drive bay accepts drives with a maximum depth of 170 mm (about
6.7”). The Sony Opticarc DVD writer shown in the image clears by about 5 mm.
Even if your drive seats completely, check out the back of the drive to make
sure the fan doesn't interfere with the data or power connectors on the back
of the drive.
Figure 4-21.
Verify that the top fan assembly doesn't interfere with the optical drive
If your drive does not seat completely, or if the top fan structure interferes
with the power or data connectors on the drive, your only options are to use a
different optical drive or to mount that drive in one of the lower 5.25” external
drive bays.
Note the cutout in the motherboard tray, visible in Figure 4-21 just below the
top fan and to the left of the drive connectors. We'll use that cutout to route
the SATA power cable and data cable to the optical drive.
PreparingtheMotherboard
The next step is to prepare the motherboard by installing the processor, CPU
cooler, and memory. Despite the fact that some case and motherboard manu-
als suggest installing these components after the motherboard has been in-
stalled in the case, it's easier and often safer for the motherboard to mount the
processor, cooler, and memory first.
To begin, locate the processor socket. Ground yourself by touching the power
supply, and then release the chrome metal socket lever by pressing it down
and away from the socket body. Once it's free of the catch on the socket body,
lift the lever to the straight vertical position, which also raises the load plate to
its fully open position, exposing the socket. Snap out the black plastic socket
