Problems getting IDE cables connected? - Then this is the solution for you.

Cables in Computer Cases are wired. Here you will learn to make a flexible cable.

Step 1: Preparation for Normal IDE (gray Cables, 34 Wires)

Check what cable you have.
Some are with very thin wires. For hispeed, I think (EIDE?) and not that flexible. As shown here (the yellow one).
Some are just grey as "nomal".

Here the instruction for the grey/normal cable.
Do this very carefully.

1. Every 2nd wire is ground. So best will be to cut between every 2nd wire.
2. Cut one or two centimeter with a cutter. Be very careful doing that!
3. Then, you will be able to pull the cable along the wires. As shown in the picture.
4. Repeat that every 2nd wire.

Step 2: Preparation for Hispeed IDE (yellow Cables)

It's basically the same as for the normal gray IDE cable.

But it's really harder to do. And be very carefully!

Take every 4th wire. As shown in the picture. Do this very slowly and without force. Just to make sure that the isolation of the wires will not be removed.

Now you have very flexible IDE cable witch fits exactly to your devices.

Step 3: Plug in - Use It!

Now you have very flexible IDE cable witch fits exactly to your devices.

So you can plug the cable and use it. It is very easy to plug in the IDE cables right now.

Optional: You can also put the divided wires in a shrinkdown plastic tubing or in a plastic spiral.

I just used it without any problems for many years without a plastic shrinkdown.