How to Replace the Video Card in an eMachine T6534 Computer
This computer's video card is integrated into the computer's motherboard, so if the video goes out, the options are to either replace the entire motherboard or add a video card to the PCI Express slot. The integrated video card that is built into the computer is a Nvidia Geforce 6100. It uses part of your computer's memory to deal with 3D graphics, which slows the computer down. A video card you would upgrade to would have its own RAM. To keep it from using the computer's memory, install a PCI Express graphics card. You can install only a few types of video cards because the computer's power supply is limited.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- PCI Express Video card or replacement motherboard
- Video card software (optional, for PCI Express card)
- Screwdriver
- Anchor screw
- Pencil/pen and paper
Instructions
-
PCI Express Video Card Installation
-
1
Remove all plugs from the computer. Ground yourself by touching the case to discharge any static electricity and set the computer with the left side panel facing up.
-
2
Remove the screws on the side panel and remove the panel by sliding it toward the back of the computer and up away from the computer. Make sure you are grounded.
-
-
3
Make sure that your PCI Express card is compatible for your system and able to run off the computer's 300-watt power supply.
-
4
Insert the card straight down firmly into the PCI Express slot. Install the anchor screw to make sure that the PCI Express card is securely in place.
-
5
Replace the computer's side panel and plug in all of your computer's cords.
-
6
Install the video card software once Windows has fully loaded to install proper drivers.
-
7
Reboot the computer if necessary.
Motherboard Installation
-
8
Remove all plugs from the computer. Ground yourself by touching the case to discharge any static electricity and set the computer with the left side panel facing up.
-
9
Remove the screws on the side panel and remove the panel by sliding it toward the back of the computer and up away from the computer. Make sure you are again grounded.
-
10
Remove the power cords from the inside of the computer. Note on paper where the plugs used to be.
-
11
Unscrew the power supply from the back. Gently pull out the power supply. This will give you access to the computer's other components.
-
12
Unclip the fan and heat sink from the computer and set them aside for access later.
-
13
Pull up the processor by lifting the small lever on the motherboard that is holding it down. The processor is very fragile, so place it in a safe place until you're ready to reinstall it.
-
14
Remove all screws holding down the motherboard. Note on paper the wires that are hooked up to the motherboard and gently pull them from the board. Slide the motherboard out to install the replacement.
-
15
Plug the wiring into the new board using your notes from the previous step as a guide.
-
16
Lift the lever on the motherboard to reinsert the old processor. The processor is made to fit correctly only one way.
-
17
Screw the new board into place to secure it inside the case.
-
18
Flip the tabs securing the memory on the old board and remove it. Place the memory into the replacement motherboard. The memory is keyed and will only fit one way.
-
19
Lock down the processor with the heat sink and fan combo. Make sure that it is properly locked into place to avoid any possible overheating issues.
-
20
Screw the power supply back into its original position and place all power cords back into their respective locations.
-
21
Replace the side panel back and screw it back in.
-
22
Plug in all the computer's cords and start the computer. You shouldn't have to reinstall drivers because the replacement motherboard has the same components.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
When installing a new PCI Express card to replace the integrated video card, make sure your power supply can handle the PCI card's power load so the video card will work properly.
Section II instructions are only for experienced people. If you do not feel that you can carry these steps out, please take the computer to a professional to perform Section II.
Pay close attention to the components' and plugs' orientation. If they won't fit, don't force them.
