Things You'll Need:
- Screwdriver(s)
- Driver install CD
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Step 1
Turn off your PC and unplug the power cable.
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Step 2
Use a screwdriver to remove the left side cover of the tower case. Each tower will vary on number of screws and exact positioning, but there are normally three screws along the back of the case that can be removed, allowing the panel to slide back and come loose.
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Step 3
Locate a free PCI slot on the motherboard. The PCI slots are aligned along the bottom left-hand corner of almost all motherboards, near the back of the case. They are usually colored white or some other light color. (Compare the size of the FireWire card's gold plugs to the slots to find the proper one if you are confused.)
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Step 4
Remove the PCI slot cover. Each PCI slot will have a small metal slat covering the back of the slot where the card's inputs and outputs will be accessible from the back of the computer. There should be a single screw just inside the case, which can be removed to take out the slot cover.
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Step 5
Install the FireWire card. Position the card over the PCI slot and push it in firmly, straight down until it pops into place. You can screw the screw from the slot cover back in to secure it in place.
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Step 6
Close the case and power on the PC.
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Step 7
Use the driver CD to install software drivers for the card if necessary. Some cards will be recognized and be operable automatically, while others will require you to insert a driver CD and run an installation file first. If you have to install drivers from a CD, restart the computer.
