How to Install Radeon X800
The Radeon X800 is a popular graphics chipset manufactured by ATI. It is found on many graphics cards, it's competitively priced and it's very powerful, capable of running most modern games well. Installing this card is somewhat challenging--you'll have to get inside your computer--but ultimately rewarding.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Radeon X800 card
- Computer with a PCI Express slot
- Screwdriver
- Radeon driver CD or equivalent installation file
Instructions
-
-
1
Power down and unplug your computer. Use the screwdriver (if necessary) to unscrew the screws holding on the side panel and remove it, exposing your computer's inside. Usually, the side panel slides out, but not always. Refer to your computer's instruction manual if you have trouble.
-
2
Unpack your video card. In a safe area near your computer, carefully remove the packaging of your Radeon card. Unpack any supplied accessories and set them aside.
-
-
3
Find your computer's PCI Express slot. This is the slot next to the regular PCI slots that is slightly longer with a lock located at one end. If there is already a video card installed there, unscrew the bracket screw, release the catch and remove it. If there is no card installed, remove the bracket by unscrewing the bracket screw and pull the bracket out.
-
4
Insert the Radeon card into the PCI Express slot. Carefully handling it at the edges, line up the card properly and insert it into the slot until the catch engages and holds it in place. Insert the bracket screw and tighten until snug. Do not overtighten, as this puts stress on the card.
-
5
Replace the side panel and turn on your computer once everything is properly in place. Windows should detect the new video card right away, but install the proper drivers for maximum functionality and performance. Insert the installation CD or run the downloaded executable. Visit ATI's website for the latest version of the driver package. Once the software and drivers are installed, you'll be prompted to restart your computer and the installation is complete.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Some versions of the X800 are AGP-compatible. AGP is a graphics technology found on older motherboards. When installing the AGP version, the installation is the same, except you'll need to use the supplied power connector to connect the card to your power supply, as the AGP interface doesn't supply enough power.
The most common problem with high-end graphics cards is an inadequate power supply. Make sure yours is at least 400 watts before installing.
