Video Card Installation Tips
We’ve touched briefly on installing video cards before, but it is so important that it bears an expanded look at the topic. The idea of prying open your computer and altering it can be very intimidating to the casual user, but in the case of a video card, installation is really not that difficult. It would be a shame to refrain from upgrading your computer to get the video quality you want and need out of fear of this relatively simple process.
Video Card Installation – First Steps
Before you start, touch something metal to discharge any residual static electricity on your fingertips. Static electricity can destroy the delicate mechanisms inside your computer. You should also try to avoid touching chips or other components while your computer is open.
Unscrew the computer case. A Phillips Head screwdriver should be sufficient for this job. Simply identify all the screws holding the case in place and remove them all, then pull the case from the base, revealing the computer components. If you encounter resistance, it is almost certainly because you missed a screw, so do a thorough re-check to find the problem.
Video Card Installation – Installing the Card
Locate the expansion slot you wish to use. Remember that certain video cards are designed for certain slots, so if you have a PCI express card look for the PCI express slot, if you have an AGP card look for the AGP slot, etc. Try to locate a slot that is away from the other components for easier installation.
Remove the insert. There should be a metal insert screwed into the expansion slot. Unscrew it and remove the insert carefully. Some computers may have an insert that you can simply punch out of the slot.
Line up the pins on the video card with the connectors on the motherboard. Make sure the first pins are correctly aligned with the first connectors. If you screw this up now and close you computer, your card won’t work and it will be tough to figure out why. Applying gentle pressure, push the video card into the slot. You may have to work it in a bit, but don’t apply too much force. If a gentle working in of the card is not effective, you may not have the pins lined up correctly, or you may have the card upside down.
Video Card Installation – Finishing Up
Make sure the video card is fully and correctly inserted. Screw the card into place using the screw that held the insert in place. Restore the case and screw it back on. Enjoy your new video card!
