Replace DVD drive with HDD for Acer Aspire TC 780

JayC
JayC Member Posts: 4 New User
edited February 2024 in 2018 Archives
Hi everyone, 

I have previously installed an M.2 SSD and set it up as my main boot drive. Given that I hardly use the DVD drive, can I use that SATA port for installing a HDD?

Essentially port 0 will be the SSD, Port 1 will be the existing HDD and Port 2 will be replaced to another HDD from current DVD.

Will there be a conflict in the BIOS or will I not be able to do so because an SSD is already installed? I have heard that installing an SSD might disable a SATA port on some motherboards? 

Appreciate any advice from the community. 

Thanks.

Answers

  • IronFly
    IronFly ACE Posts: 18,413 Trailblazer
    i don't think it will disable but probably can share some of the bandwidth but i can't find any tech references on your model.
    I'm not an Acer employee.
  • billsey
    billsey ACE Posts: 34,912 Trailblazer
    The only issue with replacing the ODD that I see is the connector. It's one of those slimline drives that uses the condensed power/data cables so you would need to verify that you have other connectors available to match the standard setup. Note that there are vendors that sell replacement caddys for the slimline slot with provision for a 2.5" drive and one of those will likely do the cable conversion for you. I did that with my older HP laptop when I wanted more storage and an SSD booth both.
    Click on "Like" if you find my answer useful or click on "Yes" if it answers your question.
  • JayC
    JayC Member Posts: 4 New User
    @IronFly yeah, this prebuilt desktop is amazing value for the money. Sadly not much documentation available so have to rely on community and forums.

    @billsey you are right re connector to the DVD. It's one of those 2 in 1 power/data cable. I haven't looked at alternatives yet but thanks for the caddy drive tip!

    I'm fortunate to have a friend with a spare PSU with the right cables, so I'll spend some time after work to experiment.

    I'll report back once I'm done. Thanks both.
  • JayC
    JayC Member Posts: 4 New User
    I've completed my experiment by installing another PSU and hooked up the drives successfully. The motherboard detected the new HDD without a hitch.

    I'll now have to consider my options vis a vis cabling. At least I know the motherboard accepts a 3rd HDD.

    Thanks again @IronFly @billsey