Do I need to set jumpers when installing a new hard drive?

Updated: 01/24/2018 by Computer Hope
Jumpers on back of IDE hard disk drive

For IDE hard drives, it's important to properly set the jumpers. If not properly done, your computer may not boot or the hard drive won't be detected.

If more than one device is on an IDE (integrated drive electronics) port, one device must be set to primary and the other set to secondary or cable select.

Tip

Many early hard drive jumper settings are on our hard drive specifications page.