Has your computer's video card died or do you just want to upgrade it to a newer, faster card? well, if you are lost when it comes to the inside of a computer, then here is an easy step by step installation guide just for you!
1. First things first. Determine whether you are going to use an AGP or PCI card. PCI slots are the most common in the PC now, and most newer computers have one AGP slot on the motherboard, which has a locking hinge on it, while the PCI slot(s) are usually brown and all look alike. Look at the video card you have in your computer now .. Hint: it will have the monitor cord plugged into it. If there is a little lock handle at the end of the slot, it's an AGP card, otherwise the slot is for a PCI video card. If you have an AGP slot, buy that kind of card if possible.
2. Pull 'er out! Well, before doing that, notice the screw that is holding the card onto the computers frame. Remove this, then gently rock the card out of the slot. Try to not touch anything other than the cards edges. Static electricity from your hands can damage the card's circuitry. IF you are removing an AGP card, be sure to pull the lock out before attempting to remove the card. Otherwise, you may pull out the card along with the motherboard and anything else attached!
3. Put 'er in! Now you can put in the new card in the reverse manner that you took the old one out with. Gently tho ... you don't want to damage your motherboard by pushing too hard. once it is inserted completely, anchor it securely down with the screw you took out previously. **Caution** If the card does not fit into the slot,make sure it is facing in the right direction. If you are sure it is right, check that the card matches the slots cutouts. An AGP card will not fit into a PCI slot, so make sure you have the right slot for the card.
4. Fire 'er up! Make sure the video cord is connected to the back of the new video card, then start up your computer. Along with your new card should be a CD with the new drivers for that card and most probably, so extra goodies. Install the drivers and any other program on the cd you want, then re-start your computer.
At this point you should have a working new video card with impressive new video display. If not, Check that the video cable is securely attached to the video card. Also, check that the video card is completely seated in the computer motherboard's slot. One other problem you may have is that the monitor itself may be too old to support the new video card. In that case, let me know and I'll write an article on how to install a new monitor!
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