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What should you do if a manager wants to install a Serial ATA hard drive, but the motherboard lacks a Serial ATA connector?

  1. Replace the motherboard

  2. Install a Serial ATA host adapter in an expansion slot

  3. Use a USB hard drive instead

  4. Install an IDE hard drive

The correct answer is: Install a Serial ATA host adapter in an expansion slot

If the objective is to install a Serial ATA hard drive in a system that does not have the required Serial ATA connectors, the best approach is to install a Serial ATA host adapter in an expansion slot. This allows the existing motherboard to interface with Serial ATA devices by providing the necessary connectors and support. Utilizing a host adapter is a practical solution because it does not require significant modifications to the current setup, such as replacing the motherboard or having to discard the selected hard drive. It enhances the system's capabilities, enabling it to support more modern hard drives without the need for a complete overhaul. In contrast, replacing the motherboard could be an alternative but it is generally a more complex and costly endeavor, especially if the current motherboard is functional for other tasks. Using a USB hard drive, while a possible workaround, does not utilize the full potential of the faster Serial ATA interface and may also limit performance. Similarly, installing an IDE hard drive may not align with the manager's request for a Serial ATA drive and does not address the specific requirement for that type of connection.