How to Install a Video Card in Your PC
A new video card will make images clearer and sharper on your screen.
The process of installing a new video card is not all that difficult to accomplish and well worth the effort. You only have to carefully screw the card in, and away you go!
Required Materials
- Video card
Required Tools
- Phillips head and flathead screwdriver
Step One: Removing the Case and Card Exit Point Cover
To get to the inside of the computer you will need to remove the cover of the computer's case. In a majority of instances, a simple Philips head screwdriver will work to remove the screws. For the next step locate where many of the exit points of the case are, at the back. This is where the video card will exit the case. It may be a screwed in hole or simply a punch out hole.
Step Two: Locating the Correct Expansion Slot
Once the case has been removed look at the interior of the computer and its motherboard. There should be several empty slots for expansion purposes, many of which should be color-coded. There are three main slots to consider: the AGP, PCI and ISA bus slots. The AGP slot is usually colored brown. Past the brown slot, there should be several other slots, which are color coded white. These can be used for the PCI video card. If you are using the ISA bus video card you are likely using hardware that is fairly outdated. There is a slot for this card that should be longer than the other slots.
Step Three: Punching out the Tab
Once you have determined which video card slot you are going to be using, punch out or unscrew the exit cover for that particular video card slot. With some cases, you may need to unscrew the opening while in others you may simply punch it out with the screwdriver.
Step Four: Installing the Video Card
Installing the video card is a simple process of fitting the card into place, taking care to handle it by the edges. In some instances, the video card will need a bit more adjustment, than others. What you do need to keep in mind is that a good connection of the pins is necessary. Avoid bending the motherboard as you try to fit the video card in its position. Bending can cause damage to the motherboard, and prevent proper connection of the pins. If the motherboard tends to bend, place one hand on the rear of the motherboard.
Make sure that the card is positioned with the correct ends corresponding to the card slot on the motherboard.
Step Five: Screw the Card in
The video card will stay in place once it is fitted in the slot, but it is necessary to screw it in to make it secure in its position. A screw hole should be available to accomplish this task. Finally, check to ensure that the card is firm in its slot.
