12
Installing the Darla24 Hardware
Once you have run the Reporter software, have verified that there are no
problems with your system, and have removed any old driver software with
the ECHODEL program, it is time to install Darla24 into your computer.
IMPORTANT - Unplug your computer and detach all peripherals before
proceeding with the following steps.
1. Remove your computer’s cover. This operation differs from computer to
computer. Refer to your computer’s manual for a further explanation of
this step if necessary.
2. Select the slot into which you will install the Darla24 card. The Darla24
card is PCI architecture. Inside your computer you will likely find two
types of expansion slots, ISA and PCI. The PCI slots will be shorter and
have a higher connector pin density than the ISA slots. You may use any
of the available PCI slots in your computer for Darla24. Unscrew and
remove the bracket covering the expansion slot where you would like to
install Darla24. Place the screw in a safe place, as you will need it later to
complete installation.
3. Insure that you have fully discharged all static electricity from your body
before handling the Darla24 card. This can be done through the use of a
grounding strap or, more simply, by touching your bare hand to the metal
casing of the computer’s power supply. (For this latter method to work,
the computer must be plugged in, though not turned on. After you’ve
discharged your static, unplug the computer before proceeding to the next
step.)
4. Remove the Darla24 card from its protective anti-static bag. Handle the
card carefully by its edges and insert it into the selected expansion slot.
Insure that the card’s edge connector (the protruding edge with the gold
leads) is seated firmly into the slot. Centering the card over the slot and
using a gentle rocking motion while pushing downward into the slot
generally works well. Be careful not to force the card into the slot, or
bend or twist it while it is being inserted, as this could result in the card
being damaged.
