[Ham-Computers] Can I Connect an IDE Drive and CD Drive to the Same Cable?

[Jim Hill]

Hi:
I have an old Dell 4600 running Win XP.  It runs ok except the CD 
drive doesn't work.  If I check the boot sequence in Setup, I see "CD 
ROM device (not installed)".  I seldom use the CD drive, so don't 
know when the problem occurred.  I tried the drive in a different 
computer, and it is operational.  I also tried the Master and Cable 
Select jumper settings and re-seated the data cable.  The drive 
indicator blinks a couple of times, so I know it receives power.

The system is very slow.  I want to reformat and reinstall Win XP, so 
need the CD drive temporarily.  Could I connect it to one of the 
connectors on the hard drive cable? If so, which connector?  When 
reformatting and installing XP, I'll need to boot from the CD.  When 
I install Office, I'll boot to the hard drive and use the CD drive in 
a normal manner.

Jim