How to Install a New Graphics Card
Warning
When working inside of your computer, you should always wear an anti-static wristband . If you shock an electrical component, you could PERMANENTLY DAMAGE THE COMPONENT and void your warranty!
Things to consider when purchasing a new card:
-Motherboard Compatibility (AGP, PCI, PCIe, PCIe 2.0 x16, PCIe 2.1 x16)
-Graphics Ports (most new video cards now include a VGA to DVI adapter, so this is less of a worry)
-Power Supply (it needs to have enough to power the card and everything else)
-Case Space (with newer high end cards, there can be little room left. I have a N260GTX in a Full tower case, and it BARELY fits. Make sure to measure your case)
-Money vs Power (This is for you to determine, I WILL NOT cover this) Things you will need to install your new card:
-Phillips Screwdriver (sometimes varies depending on the case) -Anti-static wristband
-New Graphics Card -About 30 minutes
-New video card drivers (on CD or downloaded beforehand) Steps:
If you have onboard graphics on your motherboard, you should disable this is BIOS before you install your new card.
To do this, you must restart your computer. When the OEM logo (or BIOS) comes up, press one of the keys shown at the bottom, usually F1, DEL, ESC, etc. It should be labeled, ENTER SETUP.
Navigation is done with the arrow keys here. Scroll to the advanced tab, and look for a graphics setting, and disable it.
NOTE: This CANNOT be done through Windows (or any other OS), it MUST be done through BIOS.
1) Remove your old graphics card drivers. There are a few ways to do this, but I will cover the default Windows way:
a) Open Device Manager (Computer, right click Properties, Device Manager)
b) Select Display Adapters
c) Right click Properties, and go to the Driver Tab, and click Uninstall.
2) Turn off your computer, and unplug the power cord from the Power supply unit. It is also a good idea to remove all the plugs from the back of the computer, and take the unit to a non-static workplace, like a wood workbench. Carpet and metal is not recommended.
3) Pull out the old graphics card. Some motherboards (and cards) have a release catch on them, usually under the card, to the inside of the motherboard.
4) Put in the new card. Push it in with firm, steady pressure until it drops in snugly. Wiggle the card GENTLY to see if the base is loose. Plug in the power plug from the PSU (not all cards need this, some use one 6 pin, some one 8 pin, some two 6 pins, some two 8 pins. Look at your card and your manual to find out)
5) Screw the card into the case, and put the case back together
6) Turn on the computer, and install the new drivers.
Your new graphics card is installed and ready to go!
If you would like to keep your old graphics card, put it in the anti-static bag that your new card came in to keep it safe.
If you want to get rid of it, take it to your local computer outlet and ask them if they will dispose of it for you. Computer components CANNOT just be thrown away, they need to be disposed of properly.
Information
Neither I (Lorbob75), nor Seven Forums (Windows 7 Forums) take responsibility should your card be damaged or destroyed if you follow this advice. We do not advise installing a new video card unless you know what you are doing, and are willing to risk your video card.
Graphics Card series:
1. How a Graphics Card Works
2. AGP vs PCI
4. How to Overclock Your Card
5. How to Test NVIDIA/AMD Performance with OCCT
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I hope this Tutorial helped a whole bunch of you!
~Lordbob
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