How to Upgrade an HP Graphics Card
Graphics cards are expensive computer components important for computer gamers and other users who run graphics-intense programs. Your HP graphics card may not work with new game releases or provide substandard performance. Upgrading your HP graphics card requires an examination of your current card; knowledge of what slots your motherboard supports; purchasing a compatible card and power supply (if necessary); and removing the old card and installing the new one. The process is slightly different for HP computers running Windows XP--see the "Tips" section of this article first if you run XP.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
Internal Card
-
1
Determine what type of graphics card you have and the slot types available on your motherboard. Check your computer's specifications via the HP manual that came with your computer or the HP Support site listed in the "Resources" section of this article. Take note of your type of power supply and rating as well.
-
2
Purchase a video card compatible with your operating system and your motherboard's slots. Check the required power supply rating against your current power supply and purchase a new power supply if your current one does not meet requirements.
-
-
3
Start your computer. Access the BIOS by pressing the appropriate key--on most HP computers, the computer will present the required key on the screen immediately after pressing the power button.
-
4
Select the "Advanced" tab by pressing the right arrow key.
-
5
Use the down arrow key to navigate to the "Primary Video Adapter" category. Press "Enter".
-
6
Select the type of adapter you will be installing (AGP, PCI-Express or PCI). Press "Enter".
-
7
Navigate to the "Exit" tab. Choose "Save and Exit."
-
8
Click on "Start," then right-click on "My Computer" if running Windows XP. Click on "Properties."
-
9
Click the "Hardware" tab in the "System Properties" box, then click on the "Device Manager" button.
-
10
Expand the "Display Adapters" category by clicking on the "+" to the left of the category.
-
11
Right-click on your graphics card. Left-click on "Uninstall". Click "OK" to confirm the device removal.
-
12
Click on "Start" and the "Shut Down" button. Choose "Shut Down".
-
13
Unplug all cables and peripheral devices from your HP computer.
-
14
Remove the left panel of the computer while facing the front of the case by unscrewing any screws and lifting any handles. If you are unsure how to remove the side panel on your HP computer, please see your support documentation.
-
15
Clip the metal end of the anti-static wrist bracelet to a metal object and strap on the bracelet.
-
16
Locate your current video card or on-board chipset. If you are unsure of your video card, look at the external part of the card and locate the VGA port or other video-output port, which is the same port you use to plug in your monitor. Remove any cables attached to the video card.
-
17
Remove the screw that secures the card to the motherboard and slot.
-
18
Find and release the video card's retaining latch or clasp, which will vary according to your HP model.
-
19
Grasp the card with both hands and pull it out of the slot.
-
20
Remove the new graphics card from its anti-static packaging. Line up the pins on the card with the slot's notches and insert the card. You will hear a click when you completely seat the card.
-
21
Secure the card by screwing in the slot screw and attach any cables.
-
22
Replace and secure the side panel. Reattach all cables and peripheral devices.
-
23
Boot the computer.
-
24
Allow Windows opportunity to detect your new video card and follow the on-screen prompts to install drivers and video card manager software.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Windows XP users will need to follow Step 3 through Step 7 after installing the graphics card instead of before, so skip those steps originally and follow them when you boot your computer after installing the card.
If you need to replace the power supply, follow the HP model-specific instructions and your power supply manufacturer's instructions on how to remove the old power supply and install the new one.
Buy an external video card if you own an HP laptop.
Do not force the graphics card into the slot. Doing so many damage the connectors on the card. If you have problems inserting the card, make sure you are inserting the card into the correct slot type and that you are inserting the card in the correct direction.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
