12
Installing the Darla 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 Darla 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 Darla card. The Darla 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 Darla. Unscrew and remove the
bracket covering the expansion slot where you would like to install Darla.
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 Darla 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 Darla 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.
