How easy is it to replace a CD-ROM with a CD-RW?

[2002Ecoast]

I have a CD-ROM that does not work. I bought a CD-RW and would like to put it in myself. I was wondering if someone could help me out.

Thanks.

[SLICK RICK]

It is alot eaiser than you think. Of course turn off the computer and disconnect the power, then remove both of the side panels. Disconnet the cables from the back of the CD-rom and unscrew the drive. Remove the drive and before you put in the CD-RW drive make sure you have it set to either master or slave. Then place the drive in the open slot and screw it in place. Then connect the cables, replace the panels and restart. Sorry if I left anything out, I am not an expert but I have done it recently.

SLICK RICK

[Bondiablo]

Easy. 3 cables and a jumper. Connect the 3 cables (power, IDE and audio) the same as they were connected to your CD drive. (they should only fit one way so you won't be able to connect them wrong) The jumper on the back of the CDRW can be set to Cable Select, Master or Slave. Cable Select is most likely the one you want. If it's not clearly marked on the CDRW itself, the instructions will tell you which position is for which setting. You should be able to determine what your current CD is set to by watching the start up screen on your computer or going into the BIOS or looking at the jumper position on the back of your CD drive. Depending on how old your computer is the Master device should always be the one at the end of the IDE cable and the Slave device should always be the one in the middle (the other end being plugged into the motherboard) If set to Cable Select it's those positions on the cable that determine which drive is Master and which is Slave. If the CD happens to be the only drive on that IDE channel most manufactures will be real cheap and only include a cable with one connector, if that's the case your CDRW drive is definetly going to be Master and you can set the jumper to either Master or Cable Select.

[2002Ecoast]

Thanks, If I have to go into the bios I might have a problem seeing. I don't know what it is, but I'll try anyway. Thanks again.