Before installation, the PC must be powered off and partially disassembled. Then, each add-on card s unique address and interrupt levels must be set manually set by mechanical DIP switches or jumpers. Finally, the card is installed and the PC is powered up. If the first attempt is unsuccessful, the user must remove the card, reread the manual, reset the jumper or DIP switch, plug the card back in, and hope that the jumpers are set correctly. If not, the process is repeated.
Mechanical components are also historically unreliable, further complicating the procedure.
When the user is unsuccessful, frustration results along with lost time and effort. 2001 CMP Media Inc. All rights reserved.