Install hardware
Published: September 7, 2006
There are thousands of fun and useful hardware accessories for your computer that can expand your storage space, turn your computer into a video phone, let you take recorded TV with you when you travel, and do just about anything else you can imagine. Connecting accessories to your computer is easy and takes only a few minutes—and you don't need to be a computer expert to do it.
Installing hardware is usually a two-step process. First you connect the hardware, and then you set up the software that goes with it. Microsoft Windows XP automatically recognizes many hardware products when you connect them, and installs the required software. With some accessories, however, you need to install the software that's provided with your hardware device, or you need to download software from the manufacturer's Web site. And in some cases, you have to install the software before you hook up the hardware to your computer.
To find out how to install the software included with your new hardware, read the article Install programs.
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Tip: Whenever you get a new piece of hardware, read the installation instructions that come with it so that you'll know which to do first: connect the hardware or install the software that goes with it.
Hardware connection types
Hardware can connect to your computer in several different ways. The most common types of hardware connections are Universal Serial Bus (USB), iLink/IEEE 1394/FireWire, Bluetooth, PC Card, PS/2, serial, and parallel. Here’s how they work:
USB
Most computers made in the last several years include multiple USB ports. USB has become the easiest and most common technique for connecting hardware to your computer. With this type of connection, you simply plug the hardware into your computer. If you need more ports, you can connect a USB hub to one of the existing ports on your computer.
iLink/IEEE 1394/FireWire
iLink (also known as IEEE 1394 or FireWire) is the highest-performance hardware connection. An iLink connection is typically used for digital video cameras and external hard disks. Most new computers include at least one iLink port. If your desktop computer does not have an iLink port, you can add an internal adapter with additional ports. To expand a portable computer, use a PC Card adapter.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a type of wireless connection. Many new portable computers support Bluetooth, but it is not as common in desktop computers. If your computer does not support Bluetooth, you can add a Bluetooth network adapter.
PC Card
Portable computers have PC Card slots (formerly known as PCMCIA) to support extremely small accessories, such as wireless adapters. Desktop computers do not include PC Card slots.
PS/2
PS/2 is the standard connection for your keyboard and mouse. The mouse connection is green, and the keyboard connection is purple.
Serial or parallel ports
Serial (9 pins) and parallel (25 pins) ports, the oldest connection type for external hardware accessories, are easy to connect. Typically, your software configures these connections automatically.
Internal
Some hardware accessories must be connected inside your computer's case. There are three main connection types: PCI (used for most hardware); AGP (used for video adapters); and PCI Express (a new technology that replaces both PCI and AGP). If you are not comfortable opening your computer’s case, you should have a professional install internal hardware accessories.
Install external hardware
It's easy to install external hardware—even if you are not experienced with computers. The hardware installation process varies for every accessory, and you should refer to the instructions included with it. Typically, however, installing external hardware is accomplished in five steps.
To install external hardware
1. | Open the hardware packaging and read the instructions |
2. | If the hardware includes a CD, usually you should insert the CD into your computer and install the software before you connect the hardware. However, if the instructions state otherwise, you should follow the order described in the instructions. |
3. | Shut down your computer by clicking Start, and then clicking Turn Off Computer. Then, click Turn Off. 
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4. | After your computer shuts down, connect the hardware to an available port on your computer. |
5. | Start your computer, and log on to Windows. Windows will detect and install the new hardware, and then display a notification informing you that the hardware was successfully installed. 
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If a problem occurs, refer to the documentation included with your hardware. If necessary, contact the hardware manufacturer for troubleshooting support.
Install internal hardware in a desktop computer
Internal hardware can be more complicated to install than external hardware. If you are not comfortable opening your computer's case, you should have internal hardware installed by a professional.
To install internal hardware
1. | Open the hardware packaging and read the instructions. |
2. | If the hardware includes a CD, usually you should insert the CD into your computer and install the software before you connect the hardware. However, if the instructions state otherwise, you should follow the order described in the instructions. |
3. | Shut down your computer by clicking Start, and then clicking Turn Off Computer. Then, click Turn Off.
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4. | After your computer shuts down, make a note of where each cable is connected to the back of your computer. Then unplug all cables from your computer. |
5. | Lay your computer on a desk, table, or other flat surface. 
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6. | Remove the side panel from your computer's case. Depending on the case, you may need to remove screws at the back of your computer. 
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7. | With the side panel removed, you will be able to see the inside of your computer. Identify an available slot that fits your card. If necessary, remove the small metal panel protecting the opening for the slot at the back of your computer. Save the screw. 
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8. | Touch an unpainted portion of your computer's case to discharge any static electricity. Then carefully insert the card into the open slot. Gently wiggle the card back and forth until it rests firmly in the slot. 
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9. | To hold the card in place, replace the metal panel and the screw you removed in step. |
10. | Replace the side panel to your computer's case. |
11. | Reconnect all cables to your computer, start your computer, and log on to Windows. Windows will detect and install the new hardware, and then display a notification informing you that the hardware was successfully installed.
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If a problem occurs, refer to the documentation included with your hardware. If necessary, contact the hardware manufacturer for troubleshooting support.
