maybe a stupid question

[Build it Myself]

Well i've been posting recently that I've been getting ready for a build...I've got almost everything here and what's left is arriving this week, however I have one question about a piece I ordered.

I got a NEC dvd/rw "OEM" from Newegg.com because someone suggested it. However I didn't know it was OEM and I'm curious if I have what i need It was just the unit, no cables, no cd's or install stuff, which I guess that's how OEM comes. But I got thinking...how am I going to hook this thing to my mobo? I got an Abit IP35 pro revision 1.1 so I don't know if anyone knows what this comes with. But anyway, I'm not sure if I'm supposed to buy a cable for this or if it comes with the mobo. Also, I want to have 2 cd/dvd drives and I saw a build video where the guy building had a double cable (plugged into both drives with one plug going to mobo), so obviously my next question is where and how to get this.

Thanks for the help, I appreciate it!

John

 

[AFurryReptile]

Usually motherboards come with the cable you will need, and yes, usually they are the double one's you are talking about. You should be fine, unless the mobo is OEM and doesn't come with the stuff you need.

Are you going to dismantle the computer you have? If so, you should have some cables there, too. Plus, many local computer shops will give you one free if you need it, they usually have an excess of all types of cables.

 

[Build it Myself]

no the mobo was retail...it better be! LOL, it is since I just checked because your question scared me! I'm actually using my laptop, i've never had a "desktop", I've always used laptops for the portability. however now that I'm married and have a house, I figured a desktop wouldn't be a bad idea, and it gives me more power to do the things I want.

 

[Build it Myself]

This might seem kind of like a strange question, but I've also wondered about this. When you build you're supposed to be in an anti-static area...I was planning on building my computer in my office on the desk which is made of glass...this should be fine, right? I don't think glass is conductive but since you're all the experts, I'd rather ask. Also how can I ground myself without trying to do things like touching the computer case or the PSU (which I'm not sure if it's supposed to be plugged in or not). Can I just wear my tennis-shoes or something? Rubber's non-conductive I believe as well...

I just don't want to fry any of these parts and I want to do it right so I can do it again in the future.

 

[Psymon]

Your motherboard will come with cables - no worries there.

As for the static electricity thing, consider investing in a wrist strap. You can get them for cheap and it constantly grounds you out so most of the risk is gone when handling components.

Is it necessary to use a wrist strap, though? No.

I've handled many, many components without a wrist strap in all sorts of situations, and one of the important things to remember is to always have a anti-static bag to lay components on. The one that your motherboard comes in is very large and useful for things like this.

Also, always handle components by holding them on the side. Don't try to grip them with a fist or something of that nature. Be very delicate with them. They are strong, but you can fry them easily.

If you don't use a wrist strap, then just make sure to constantly ground yourself out before you ever handle any component, or get near a component. Even if you are just working with wires in the case, ground yourself out before hand because you are working near fragile components.

All in all, I build my PC's on the kitchen table. Haven't fried a component yet.

Good luck.

 

[Roguestar]

Disc drives don't need install discs... how would you run them?! :laugh:

 

[Build it Myself]

LOL, good point, I suppose that makes sense, but I'm just trying to cover all the angles so I don't hit a wall when I want to have this thing running.

I also noticed the Abit35pro has a in-windows flash utility...has anyone ever used this? Is it worth using? I'll probably just do it the old way so I know how, but I'm curious if anyone has experience with this program...