9100 w/o second power cable for second HD

Question

I'm trying to install a second HD but there is now power cable for a second drive. I read a thread about this problem and the reported solution was to look for a second power cable under the drive bays. I've just about torn the system apart and there is no second power cable. I traced the power cable from the primary drive to the motherboard and it's plugged into one of four ports. The other three are empty. Is it possible my system did not have a second power cable installed? If not, where can I get another cable? I've search the dell site with no luck. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

PETER345 · Answer

It seems like they should send you a cable with the drive because there are no extras in the machine. You might given them a call (or chat or email) to see if you are entitled to a cable. Peter

C3PO5 · Answer

Hi tvmcop I think you are looking for the data cable a little narrow small cable right ??? the data cable transfers info from the drive to the motherboard. Most drives don't come with a data cable unless bought the box version,it would come with the data cable. the power cable comes from the power supply to power the drive. from the manual for your 9100 there is 2 power cables from the power supply. look @ this link for p3-p5 that would power the drives.   < ADMIN NOTE: Broken link has been removed from this post by Dell>

tvmcop · Answer

Thanks, I was confused. Too old and only worked on old drives. You're right, I just bought a data cable from cables to go. 'preciate the help cheers

tvmcop · Answer

Thanks, I'm in a constant state of confusion. I believe you are right. I'll go looking for the data cable right now. Too bad the drive I bought from dell didn't come with the cable. Anyway, Thanks for your help. Cheers

PETER345 · Answer

Sounds odd... My 9100 has a second SATA power connector.

Here is a picture of the PSU and connectors. Maybe it will help.

http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/dim9100/en/SM/techov.htm#wp1053958

After reading your post more carefully, I think you are confused. The data cable goes from the drive to the motherboard. There is only one of those. The power cable goes from the drive to the PSU (e.g. picture in link above).

You either need to buy a second data cable. My SATA drive I bought came with a cable. You should look for a data cable with a connector turned 90 degrees from the cable.

Peter

shesagordie · Answer

tvmcop

Whenever you buy, an OEM [bare] hard drive, you will only receive the drive, no cable, no instructions or installation software.

When you buy, the retail boxed version of the drive, then you will get a data cable [18" x straight x straight connector], instructions and the installation software.

Bev.

===================================================
Please don't send me questions about your system by DCF Messenger.
Post the issue in the appropriate Board, where they will be answered.

Storage, Drives & Media

9100 w/o second power cable for second HD

Was this post helpful?