Adding CD-ROM causes HD to stop functioning

[ikaika1]

I've got an old Compaq my parents use for their e-mail and internet browsing set up in their bedroom. A while ago the slot loading CD-ROM ate a CD and wouldnt give it up until I dismantled it. They didnt need the CD-ROM so it wasnt a big deal when I told them it was dead. Unfortunately their computer has developed a lot of instability recently and I figured before we gave in to more drastic measures I would try a reformat. Now I need a CD-ROM. I pulled my old Phillips CD-R/CD-RW from my box 'o computer parts, stuck it in, and started up. Next thing I know I'm staring at a no fixed disk message. I noticed that when I connect the CD drive's ATA cable, all the power to the drive and the zip drive seems to shut off. When I remove the ATA cable, however, the HD comes alive and spins up. I cant be specific about the motherboard because I just dont know. The model number of the Compaq is 4814 if that will help at all. Anything you've got would be appreciated.

 

[Ausm]

Check the devices to make sure that the Burner is the master and the HD is the slave...if that doesn't work the switch the Master/Slave jumpers on the devices and try it again

Ausm

 

[Ausm]

Oh additional Info...only one Device can be either the slave or master they cannot both be master/master or Slave/Slave

Ausm

 

[ObiDon]

Also, in case you have one of those old unkeyed IDE cables, double-check to make sure you aren't plugging it in backwards. The red-striped edge should be on the side closest to where the power cable plugs into the drive 😉