How to Install an S-Video Card in a PC

When personal computers were first introduced into homes, there was only one way to connect your computer to a monitor. Usually that monitor was a monochrome monitor, so the connection was not a complicated matter. With advances in technology and increases in computing power, there are now more than a few different ways to connect monitors to computers. S-video is one video and monitor option that can quickly and easily be added to nearly any personal computer.

Things You'll Need

• S-video card
• Open slot inside your computer that fits your S-video card

Instructions

1. Shut down your computer and unplug the machine. You should not work on the insides of a computer when the machine is plugged in.

2. Open up your computer case. On most computers this will require removing two screws from the back of the box. The case usually slides off to the side or lifts up.

3. Locate an empty slot on the motherboard that will fit your S-video card. To check to see if the slot in the motherboard will work for your video card, look at the side of the tabs on the bottom of the card and compare them to the slot. If the slot and the tabs are the same size, the card will work in the slot.

4. Insert the card into the slot, carefully. Once the card is in place, the plug for the video cord should be visible from the back of the computer. If your computer has screws holding the other cards in place, use a screw to tighten your new card into place as well. Some computers have these types of screws and some do not.

5. Close your computer case and turn the computer back on. When you do, the BIOS should detect the new video card and enable it for use. If it does not, you will need to use your old video monitor to install the drivers for the video card (just insert the driver CD).

Tips & Warnings

• Do not force the video card into place. It will take some pressure, but if you force it, the card will break.