Laptop SATA HDD to desktop

[wiz40]

I have a Dell Optiplex GX280 SFF (small form factor) computer. With the internal SATA 7 pin connector, can't I replace the 40 GB HDD and somehow install a laptop SATA 250 GB drive in there somehow?

Because of the space limitations, and the fact I also plan to install a slimline DVD RW burner where the current CD Rom is, I want this to be a smooth transition, if I get the right brackets and such, right?

[Disk_Contented]

From what I heard, the 2.5 uses the combined power and data connector, like you can get for a 3.5 drive.
Laptop optical will need a conversion board, like this:
http://www.xpcgear.com/slimodtoide.html

You want something like this?
http://uk.asus.com/products.aspx?l1=...&mo delmenu=1

The transition will be easy enough, I would make my own brackets.

[wiz40]

I asked this question before, and I got the right answer, but muddled results. Basically, I have 2 WD SATA HDDs. One is 250 GB from a laptop and the other is in a Dell small desktop (3.5") size 40 GB.

Why cant I put the small SATA in some kind of bracket, then run it like a desktop SATA? I do not need a SATA to IDE or anything like that.

Because the large SATA uses SATA connection. My CD Rom one day will be a DVDRW (slim dell type)- if I can get one that size that works on the IDE port!



HELP IN LAYMAN'S TERMS PLZ!!!!!

I understood you,
DD, I just dont understand how.

[Disk_Contented]

2.5 inch SATA drive does have the standard Sata connector, so barring the mounting arrangement, It's a straight swap. Performance will allmost certainly be lower. Unless the lappy drive is a performance one.

For the optical drive. Converter board you see in the link I posted has two views. One side has a small "D" shaped connector. That plugs into the lappy size optical. The other size has a standard IDE. You proceed as normal to connect it to your board. Laptop IDE drives are standard interface, just smaller.

The last small form factor Dell cd drive I saw had a mini IDE connector, like a laptop HD has. You would need a 3.5 to 2.5 converter. These are cheap on Ebay etc. Same applies. It plugs into a standard IDE port.