If you unplugged and packed your computer before you moved, reinstalling it may be simpler than you think. This guide will help the pros, and those of you who might not feel quite comfortable with plugs and hardware, ensure that their computer is up and running in no time.
Here's How:
First, set up your desk and chair. Make sure the desk is at the right height and that it is located in the spot where you want it to be; once the computer is in place, it'll be difficult to move it. The desk should be located close to a power outlet, or purchase a surge-protected power bar (always use a surge protector for your computer) or extension cord.
For more information on how to set up a computer ergonomically, check out About's Guide to Ergonomics; there you'll find some great tips and suggestions to avoid computer related injuries.
Unpack all the computer parts from the box and lay them out in front of you. Keep a flashlight nearby in case you need some extra light.
The parts you should have in front of you should be the CPU, monitor with cables, keyboard, mouse, power cable and power bar.
Place the monitor, keyboard and mouse on top of the desk and the CPU (the large box containing the hard drive) underneath the desk (or on top if you decide it's the best place to store it).
If you're putting your CPU on the floor beneath the desk, check where the DVD driver is, the USB inputs (the slots where a memory stick would go), and any other extra input places that you might need access to. You'll want to make sure that these areas can be easily accessed.
If you used the article on how to pack a computer, you would have labeled your cords and plug-in slots on your CPU. If you didn't, don't worry, most CPUs have color-coded input slots that match the color of the cords.
First, take the cable that is attached to the monitor, and plug it into the slot in the back of the CPU. The monitor plug will have two small screws at either end of its rectangular shape; there will be only one place in the back of the CPU where this plug shape will fit.
Drop the monitor cord behind the desk (to try to keep cords out of the way) and attach the cord to the CPU.
Drop the cords for the mouse and keyboard behind the desk and plug the cables for each into the corresponding input slots. Again, the cables should be color-coded and the input slots will match. If you have an older machine, look for symbols beside the input slots.
Take the power cord (the thickest cord with two three-prong plugs - one on either end) and plug one end into the monitor and the other into the surge-protected power bar, which you can connect to a power outlet. Again, the cord should be dropped behind the desk to keep it out of the way.
If you have speakers, they will also need to be plugged into the CPU. Look for matching cords or for symbols on the input slots which usually look like a microphone (input for headset microphone) and an audio symbol. Note that once you turn on the computer, and log in, if the speakers are not installed correctly (they are plugged into the wrong input slot), it will send you an error message. Go back, and try plugging the cords into different slots.
For additional gadgets, such as printers, scanners, network boxes and hubs, check the installation documentation that came with the item or contact your internet service provider for help with network systems.
If you'd need help with the installation, contact GeekSquad. They'll talk you through the problem or provide in-person service.
