Easiest Way to install a 320 or 500gb HD into the Ultrabay

[kuma]

Hello, I've become very confused after reading all the posts on adding a HD into the Ultrabay Slim adapter, seems I can get the old one which is PATA. And then I can buy the WD 320gb HD from newegg model #WD3200BEVE, but I'm not sure that I wont get the Error message people refer to, but I think that this just is for the T43? Or should I get the Ultrabay Slim adapter which is SATA, but I believe I would have to grind something down for it to work.

My external HD just died on me, so I'm [censored]. But I just want to use the 2nd HD for iTunes and back ups.

I'm obviously not the most advanced computer user, so whatever is easier would be very helpful to me.
Thank you.

[91011]

You can use any 2.5" PATA HDD in a T42 without getting the 2010 error. If you're simply looking for additional storage there are many non-OEM Ultrabay adapters designed for the T4x series on eBay.

Below is a serial version & will not require any modding. I have several PATA & SATA Ultrabay knockoffs from this seller; they all work fine, are very inexpensive and usually arrive in 8-10 days. Doesn't seem to have any PATA versions at the moment. A serial might be best anyway since SATA drives are cheaper and more available these days.

http://cgi.ebay.com/2nd-second-SATA-Har ... 7C294%3A30

John

[kuma]

So if I buy this Ultrabay adapter I just need to buy a SATA HD, plug it in and that is it?
Or is it more complicated than this?
Thanks in Advanced

[91011]

That's it - nearly idiot-proof.

Since is no caddy used, I always cover the interior bottom surface of the Ultrabay with something non-conductive (post-it notes, laminating material, shelf paper, etc.) to make sure the bare drive doesn't touch the metal Ultrabay bottom. It will come with four screws that appear to have no use but they're actually used to lock the drive in the Ultrabay. I find one screw on each side is enough to lock the drive in.


John