Computersight -

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Difficulty Level: Easy

Tools Needed

• Phillips head screwdriver (small to medium size)
• Flat head screwdriver (small to medium size)
• Ground bracelet – optional

Overview

Read these steps and make sure that you understand the procedure and what parts you are removing and installing.  If you are unsure of these procedures, you should obtain advice from a qualified technician before attempting this repair. 

These instructions are generic to PC desktop computers of the type likely to run Windows.  Before attempting to replace the video card in your computer, read the manufacturer’s manual provided with the machine.  Not all computers are the same and variations are found across both the industry as a whole and even within model lines.   Video Cards are manufactured in various formats and for certain machines.  Before attempting this installation, you should determine the exact type of video card you currently have and make sure that the new card is compatible with your computer.

Important: Remember that static electricity can damage computer components.  A ground bracelet is highly recommended to prevent damage.  Read and follow the directions that come with the ground bracelet.  If you do not have a ground bracelet, touch the metal case of the power supply before touching anything inside the computer.  Touching the power supply will discharge any static electricity.   

1.  Remove old card

            a.         Turn off and unplug computer

            b.         Remove computer case cover.

                                    i.  Locate screws securing cover to case           

                                    ii. Remove screws and lift cover to remove from case

2.         a.         Locate video card and remove

                                    i.  remove screw which secures video card to case

                                    ii. grasp video card by two sides and pull firmly upward. 

                                                Video card should slide out of slot.

3.         a.         Install new video card

                                    i.   hold new vied card by the edges and line up connecter tab with                                                         slot in motherboard      

                                    ii.  push video card down into slot in mother board.  Card should

                                                slide into slot with firm pressure.   

                                    iii. install screw to secure card to case.

4.         a.         Replace cover

                                    i.   place cover onto computer case.

                                    ii.  reinstall screws holding cover onto case.

                                    iii. attach video cable to card from back of computer.

5.         a.         Restart computer

                        i.  Windows operating system will automatically recognize new video

                                    card and install.                                    

                        ii. If computer asks for disk or file, provide disk or location of file for

                                    driver installation. 

If the computer does not recognize the new video card, follow the troubleshooting directions that came with the new video card.  If the new card will not work properly, reinstall old video card to return system to previous working condition.