How to Install a PCI Express 16 Video Card
A PCI Express video card provides fast graphics; graphics processors, which generate intensive graphics, are designed exclusively for PCI Express technology. The 16 notation means 16x, or 16 lane card slot, with each lane sending 500MB per second of information dealing with graphics in a full-duplex mode. Full-duplex means that the card will be able to both send and receive graphics data simultaneously.
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Instructions
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1
Unplug your computer and arrange it so that it will be easy to open and work on.
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2
Ground yourself so you do not create a short. Touch the system chassis to fully discharge any static you may be carrying.
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3
Use your screwdriver to unscrew and remove the computer's left side panel screws that hold the side panel in place.
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Gently slide the panel to your left and pull it out. Look into the computer and locate the PCI Express 16x slot.
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Align the card over the corresponding slot on the board and press the card firmly into that slot.
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Secure the card by gently screw an anchor screw into place.
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Replace the computer's side panel, screwing it back in.
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Place all the plugs back into the proper locations and turn on the computer.
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Install the proper driver disk for the new video card to work. Restart the computer if prompted.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure that you have an ample power supply to run the video card with your system. This new component may use more power than the video card it is replacing.
If you have more than one PCI Express 16x slot, place the card into the upper slot that is closest to the processor.
Make sure to plug the monitor into the PCI Express 16x video card instead of the previous location so that the monitor will work in the correct location.
Make sure you ground yourself multiple times if the air is dry where you are working. Static electricity is your worst enemy and can render even the most expensive PCI Express 16x video card useless.
Make sure you have ample airflow in your computer when the card is installed. If the airflow is stagnant and the system warms up beyond its normal temperatures, the components can overheat and shut down.
If your system is dusty, make sure to blow it out with canned air before installing the card. Too much dust swirling in a system can cause a static discharge in the system, harming components.
