3ware Escalade ATA RAID Controller Installation Guide12www.3ware.com• Handle the ATA RAID Controller by its edges or by the blackrail and metal bracket at its two ends.• Don’t touch any pin, contact, lead or component on theATARAID Controller.Mechanical ConcernsBe careful when installing the EscaladeATA RAID Controller intoyour system. Excessive force can damage the board, the cables,your drives or your system.• Be sure the board is aligned with its slot on the motherboardbefore installing. Do not flex the board excessively.• Interface cable connectors must be mated carefully withoutbending any pins. The connectors provided are keyed to preventyou from inserting them upside-down.• Interface cables are fragile and must not be crimped or pinched.Ensure that they do not impede the flow of cooling air from fansor heat sinks in the system case.