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The video card is the only expansion card
that needs to be installed before booting the PC for the first time.
It is critical in displaying vital information needed to configure the
BIOS during the initial boot process. All the other cards can be
installed once the computer is up and running. To learn more about the
video adapter, you may review the relevant section from chapter 2
"How Computers Work".
Installation of the video card is a simple process:
| Step
1
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Locate an
expansion slot type that matches the video card. AGP is used
for newer (ATX) motherboards while ISA and PCI are used for
older boards.
|
| Step
2
|
Take out the
slot insert that corresponds to the slot on the motherboard.
Some cases have punch out inserts while others have inserts
that are screwed in.
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| Step
3
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Insert the
video card into the slot by aligning the pins and gently
applying pressure alternately to the front and back of the
board until all the pins are in place. Older ISA cards may be
more challenging to insert because of their length. When
pushing the card into the slot, try not to let the motherboard
bend. Sometimes it might be necessary to put a hand underneath
to push the board up if it bends. Make sure to be properly
grounded to the case.
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| Step
4
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Once the card
is in place, secure it to the case with a screw. Do not forget
to check all work.
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Later, these general steps can be used to install other
expansion cards such as modem card and sound card.
Caution: Some motherboards have built-in video. If this
is the case, it must be disabled in the CMOS in order to install
an external video card.
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Lab
Activity (PDF, 15 KB) |
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In this lab,
students will install the video card. Students
will
also connect the mouse, keyboard,
and monitor. |
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Video
(1:15 min) |
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Installing a Video Card |
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