[ubuntu-za] Changing SATA setting from IDE mode to AHCI after Ubuntu install

[Stefano Rivera]

Hi Josh (2010.07.20_18:04:55_+0200)
> My motherboard has an eSATA port on the rear panel which I would like
> the option of using. When reading the motherboard user manual, it
> states that I need to set my SATA controller to AHCI mode in order to
> make use of the eSATA connections.

You probably want to use AHCI mode, yes. The only reason motherboards
don't ship with it enabled is that Windows XP doesn't have an AHCI
driver (on the install CD).

> My question is whether I can safely change the SATA controller setting from
> IDE mode to AHCI mode without causing any problems to my Ubuntu install?

If you haven't manually edited your /etc/fstab it should work fine.

Your windows install is likely to be a little unhappy about it, but you
probably don't have to re-install.

SR

-- 
Stefano Rivera
  http://tumbleweed.org.za/
  H: +27 21 465 6908 C: +27 72 419 8559  UCT: x3127