How do you change video cards?

Answer 1

Hopefully this will help: First you will need to open the case of the computer (usually a few screws on the back, or on newer computers you may be able to open a side panel). Locate the video card. This will usually be the only 'card' installed, but if not then look for identification on the card (typically 'ATI' or 'nVidia'). Carefully remove any cables connected to the card. There will usually be a screw on the metal plate at the end of the card which holds it securely to the case. Remove the screw. It might also be a plastic 'catch'. There may be a 'catch' holding the connector where the card is attached to the motherboard. Look for a plastic hook on the ends of the connector on the motherboard. If you see one then press down on the tab to disengage the hook. The card can now be removed. You may need to rock it slightly end-to-end to loosen it to remove it, but don't get too rough with it. Installing the new card is just the reverse of the above. Press the card down into the connector. If there is a hook on the connector it will automatically set itself as the connector is seated. Secure the card to the case (ie. using the screw or the plastic catch). Reattach the cable(s) to the card. ** Note ** There are a few variables to deal with here. You need to ensure that the new card uses the same interface as the old card. Typically that will be 'AGP' or 'PCI Express' More powerful cards might require their own power connector. If so you will need to connect a power lead to a connector on the card. Not all power supplies will have one of these, so make sure in advance that your power supply has one if the card will require it. Some motherboards have 'onboard' video and don't actually have a card. But there should be a suitable slot for the new card to be inserted (again, ensure you get the right interface 'AGP' or 'PCI Express'). Typically, Microsoft Windows will detect that something has changed when you restart it, so it should recognise the new card and lead you through the process of installing drivers for it. But if it does not you may need to 'remove' the existing video device (look in the control panel for adding/removing hardware). If your computer uses 'onboard video' it is also possible that there is a setting in the BIOS which enforces the use of this. If Windows does not restart then go into the BIOS settings (the stuff which is displayed on the screen when the computer is first turned on will detail how to enter the BIOS settings). Look through the options until you find one that says to use the onboard video and change it. BE CAREFUL WHEN EDITING BIOS SETTINGS!! IF YOU ARE NOT SURE ABOUT WHAT YOU ARE DOING THEN PLEASE CONSULT YOUR COMPUTER SUPPLIER'S SUPPORT CENTRE, OR TALK TO AN EXPERT