HDD interface

Charlie7940

Member
I was looking through HDD 101 and I couldn't answer my question:

On my old computer, the HDD died as I got an error message about the harddrive and I can hear it clicking. I would like to replace this, but I'm not sure which type of HDD to put in. I assume it's and IDE because this computer is at least 5+ years old.

Now my question: Does it matter which interface I buy? IDE UltraATA100 or IDE UltraATA133?
 
They are both IDE> ATA33, ATA66, ATA100, and ATA133 should all work without a problem. The size is all you should worry about as some comps can only handel so much. There are usally ways around this. Bios updates/patches/extentions...
 
Ok thanks, yeah I the one that is broken was a 20gig. I'm just gonna replace it with another 20gig...that is plenty for this system.
 
Charlie7940 said:
Ok thanks, yeah I the one that is broken was a 20gig. I'm just gonna replace it with another 20gig...that is plenty for this system.

You won't find a brand new 20 GB HDD in the market, you might be able to find a used one. I think that the least HDD size you will find now is the 80 GB ones, which I doubt your motherboard will support.If you can tell us what are the specs of the processor and the motherboard, this will be very helpful in determining if larger HDDs will work or you will need BIOS updates.
 
True, however I ended up just taking some old HDD from my dad's office. They recycle their computers every three years and I end up with pretty much whatever I want. :)
 
lol, lucky you, do they have anything else thats good besides the ram or hard drive? (ex, video card, mb, etc.)?
 
Let me rephrase what I said...I have already replaced my HDD. I stated that because I suspected geoff was looking for some spare parts, however they are all for me :) I use each and every part.

if you motherboard supports it, you can even get 300GB hdds for only 120 bucks.

Besides, 10 GB is a more reasonable amount for what I need it for :)
 
On my old computer, the HDD died as I got an error message about the harddrive and I can hear it clicking.
Whats the error message?

Now my question: Does it matter which interface I buy? IDE UltraATA100 or IDE UltraATA133?
no

You won't find a brand new 20 GB HDD in the market
Look harder :P Granted its not financially sound to buy 20GB drives ;)


Regardless lets all get back on topic
 
Back
Top