Well, when you are upgrading the video card in your desktop computer you need to know how the process works end-to-end. It does take a bit of time and care even for the seasoned veterans amongst us who have done it before or have usually built their own computers.
There are numerous things to consider:
- removal of the old video card(s) from the operating system,
- allowing the video card(s) to cool down prior to removal,
- preparation of the physical desktop computer for the upgrade,
- the upgrade itself.
Removing the old video card(s) from the operating system is fairly simple under Windows and can be done via Device Manager:
- Press the Window key on your keyboard and type in Device Manager then hit Enter,
- Expand out the Display Adapters section,
- Right click on the video card being upgraded and click Uninstall,
- Repeat for each subsequent video card (if you have more than one being upgraded),
- Once complete, shutdown the computer.
At this point, you might think you are good to go to take out the old video card(s) and install the new one(s). For your own safety, you should let the video card(s) cool down for at least five minutes so you don’t burn yourself. I allow around ten minutes but if you can allow longer until the video card well and truly cools that is most ideal.
Next up is the preparation of the desktop computer for the upgrade.
You’ll need to ensure that you disconnect all cables from the computer prior to placing it on its side for the upgrade process. You may also require a screwdriver depending upon how the case is fastened to the chassis and how the cards are secured in place inside the computer. You will also require something delicate upon which to place the old video cards once removed from the computer. The anti-static bag in which the new video card was shipped is a good candidate for this purpose.
So, now for the actual upgrade – I’ve made a video that walks you through the upgrade process which you can check out below:
Bear in mind, your computer, motherboard and video card will most probably differ from what I have so use this as an indicative guide – if you are unsure about something then ask!
Of course, once the upgrade is complete you have to close up the computer, reconnect the cables and power it back up to check that everything is in working order. If you’ve followed the above then you should have a working computer with improved graphics capabilities at your disposal.
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