How to install a video card

Use our tutorials only if you feel comfortable working on your own computer. Simplistechs is not responsible for any data loss, damage or injury that may result in an attempt to install video cards. With that said this is for the most part an easy device to install and rarely is a problem. If you have a questions about or are having problems with video card ask a question in our Computer Hardware Help Forum or see our Video Card FAQ Page.

Before you open you computer the first thing you should do is remove your video driver for the video card that is currently installed in your computer. This is done in 'Device Manager'

Next, shut down and unplug your computer. Unplug the monitor from the back of the computer, remove the case, and find the Video Card. If you don't know which one is the Video Card, find the one the monitor plugs into. That's it. Unscrew or unclip the screw that fastens it to the computer.

Unscrew and pull the card from its slot. PCI and AGP cards are easier to remove than VLB.

The next step only applies if your computer has on-board video. Some computers don't have a Video Card. In this case, you must disable the on-board video before installing a separate card. Refer to your motherboard's manual for this directions on how to do this. Most systems with on-board video have a small switch or jumper to set that disables this. Next, pick the slot you are going to use for the card, and remove the dust cover from the back of the computer.

Now you insert the new card. Move any cables out of the way. Position the card over the slot, with the monitor connection facing the back of the computer. It may help to insert one side of the card first, then the other. Don't be afraid to push. It sometimes takes some force to get the card in. Just use your own judgment. Don't break anything.

Fasten the screw down into place to secure the card. The screw just needs to be snug. You don't want to strip it.

Put the case back on, reattach the monitor cable, plug it in, and turn it on. If you hear 3 beeps when you turn on you computer your video card is not 'seated' properly in the slot. Refer to Step 3 if this happens.

It should work just fine if you have a newer PNP card. Next, follow the instructions on the driver CD or diskette to install the drivers. If you use a Windows OS , your system might detect the hardware and request the disk be inserted. If this happens, you did a good job putting it in. Now simply follow the on-screen instructions, and enjoy your new Video Card!

Note: you may also want to check the manufactures web site to see if there are any updated drivers or software.

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