Connect a Firewire to My Computer
Firewire is a standardized interface that connects peripherals to computers. While Apple was the force behind the creation of Firewire technology, it soon found its way to Windows computers, usually via a third-party adapter. The most common items that use Firewire are external hard drives, scanners, early iPod adapters and digital camcorders. Though it initially outperformed USB in terms of speed, it has started to fall out of favor, as indicated by the omission of a Firewire port on some recent Macintosh laptop computers.
Instructions
1. Learn to recognize the different types of Firewire ports. The most common is Firewire 400, also known as 6-pin, which has a test-tube-shaped port. Firewire 800 (9-pin) uses a rectanglar port with a notch on one side.
2. Decide if it makes sense to attach a Firewire device to your computer, particularly if you're working with an older model. For example, early G3 iMac models don't have a built-in Firewire port, so ask whether spending time and money implementing a third-party workaround solution on yesterday's technology is a good idea.
3. Locate any Firewire jacks on your computer. The icon indicating Firewire is Y-shaped, and Firewire ports are usually located close to any USB ports on the back of the computer. If there isn't a Firewire port, you can often add one via a third-party card. If you go this route, check the specs of the card to confirm that your PC meets all the requirements, such as RAM, operating system and processor speed.
4. Shop around for the adapter that fits your computer. PC laptop users can buy a PCMCIA Firewire adapter, but an open PCMCIA port is required. Both Mac and Windows desktops can use a PCI card to add Firewire capability. For laptops without Firewire ports (MacBook Air, for example), USB-to-Firewire converters are available, but Apple offers no guarantee that these aftermarket add-ons will perform seamlessly.
5. Confirm you have the correct cable for your computer and device. Firewire cables are available in every permutation--Firewire 400 port to Firewire 400 peripheral, Firewire 400 peripheral to Firewire 800 port and Firewire 800 port to Firewire 800 peripheral, all in a wide variety of lengths. You can also buy an adapter that converts Firewire 400 to Firewire 800.
6. Install the external adapter in your computer. Desktop users will have to open the case of the computer to install a PCI card. This involves powering down the computer, unplugging all cables and removing the metal cover that closes the PCI port. Make sure the card is properly seated in the slot and secure using the same screw removed from the PCI cover. If you're using a laptop, power it down before installing the PCMCIA card, and confirm it's properly seated before rebooting.
7. Install any software included with the card, or visit the manufacturer's site to download the most up-to-date drivers.
Tags: Firewire port, your computer, port Firewire, Firewire peripheral, Firewire ports, adapter that