Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
Note
If you are replacing an existing video card (or switching from onboard video to an add-in
video card), you should remove the existing installed video driver before powering down
to install the new card. This helps prevent the system from improperly identifying the new
video card and makes for a smoother upgrade. To do this, open the Windows Device Man-
ager, select the existing display adapter, and select Remove or Uninstall. Do not reboot the
system if asked; instead, you can power down and remove the existing video card.
After the entire system is assembled, when the system boots up, Windows should detect the
new video card and automatically begin the driver installation process. At that point, follow
the manufacturer's instructions for installing the latest video drivers for the new video card.
After the video card drivers are installed, you can use the Windows Display properties to
fine-tune its settings for resolution, color depth, or refresh rate if desired.
Installing Additional Expansion Cards
Many systems use additional expansion cards for networking, sound, or other functions.
These cards are plugged in to the bus slots present on the motherboard. To install these
cards, follow these steps:
1. Insert each card by holding it carefully by the edges, being sure not to touch the chips
andcircuitry.Putthebottom-edgefingerconnectorintotheappropriateopenslot(usu-
ally PCI or PCI Express). Firmly press down on the top of the card, exerting even
pressure, until it snaps into place.
2. Secure each card bracket with a screw.
3. Attach any internal cables you might have removed earlier from the cards.
Ifyouhavemultipleslotstochoosefrom,trytoconsiderairflowwhenchoosingtheslotto
install a particular card. In some cases you might want to leave blank slots between cards,
or group all the cards away from any video cards that might be installed, because video
cards generally create more heat than all the other cards combined.
Replacing the Cover and Connecting External Cables
Now the system should be nearly assembled. All that remains is installing the cover as-
sembly and connecting any external devices that are cabled to the system. This normally
includes a keyboard, mouse, monitor, speakers, and network cables. I usually don't like
to install the case cover screws until I have tested the system and am sure everything is
working properly.
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