How to Install a New Sound Card in Your Sony Desktop PC

Sony desktop computers generally come with excellent sound systems, but upgrading your sound card may give you access to advanced sound functions and audio editing. Installing a new sound card in your Sony desktop PC yourself can save you the cost of a service call to a tech repair shop.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Sony desktop PC
• Sound card
• Small Phillips-head screwdriver
• Installation CD with drivers

Installing a New Sound Card

1. Gather your equipment and review the procedure for working safely inside the computer chassis, especially the cautions about electrostatic discharge (see Tips and Warnings below).
2. Turn off your computer and unplug it from AC power. Wait about 10 minutes for the computer’s internal components to cool down.
3. Open the side panel of your computer or remove the case cover, following the instructions that came with your computer.
4. Locate an empty PCI slot for the new sound card.
5. Remove the slot cover by unscrewing the securing screw and lifting slot cover out of the computer.
6. Attach any cables that come with your sound card. It’s much easier to attach them now than to try to work inside the computer after the card is installed.
7. Align the sound card with the PCI slot.
8. Press the card firmly into the slot until it is seated. Do not force the card into the slot.
9. Secure the sound card in place using the screw you removed from the face plate.
10. Close the case and reattach the power cords and cables.
11. Turn the computer on and follow any instructions for installing drivers and software for the new sound card.

Removing an Existing Sound Card

12. Remove the screw securing the sound card in place.
13. Lift the sound card straight up from slot. If it doesn’t lift free, rock it gently end to end while pulling upward.

Tips & Warnings

• If your computer has an integrated sound card, disable that sound card in the System BIOS before beginning.
• An easy way to discharge electricity when working inside your computer chassis is to touch a metal part of your computer. Alternatively, you can wear an ESD wristband that is attached to a metal ground.
• It takes very little static electricity to damage the electrical circuits on your sound card or system board. Always take precautions to prevent electrostatic discharge. Work on an uncarpeted surface, and touch the metal chassis of your computer frequently.

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