How to install a Radeon video card

How to Install an ATI Radeon Video Card

The Radeon Series of video/graphics cards, originally designed by ATI Technologies and later by AMD, offer a wide range of capabilities, which vary depending on the model you choose and the hardware limitations of your computer. When choosing a Radeon video card, always check the model version to make sure that it is compatible with your current computer. Once you have purchased an Radeon card, the next step is to install it. Although it may seem like a difficult task if you have never performed a computer hardware upgrade yourself, here are a few basic steps that will assist you in completing the installation quickly and easily.

Things You’ll Need
Phillips screwdriver
Installation disk with software and drivers
PC with open AGP, PCI or PCI Express slot (depending on the model)

Step 1
Turn the computer off and unplug everything from the back of the computer. Place the tower on a well-lit work surface such as a kitchen table or desk, ideally in a non-carpeted room.

Step 2
Remove the screw(s) from the side access panel (if applicable for your PC tower) and remove the side access panel.

Step 3
Carefully insert the card into an open slot on the motherboard. Don’t force it or you may damage both the card and the motherboard.The type of slot used depends on the model of graphics card. (PCI slot for PCI card, AGP slot for AGP card, PCI Express slot for PCI-E card)

Step 4
Place the retention screw in the opening at the back of the case to secure the card in place, then use a screwdriver to tighten the screw.

Step 5
Connect to a power supply. Many new high-end cards cannot get all the power they need from the slot and require a secondary power input. If you have purchased one of these cards, connect one of the several loose cables from the main power supply (the small metal box at the top inside of the tower) to the available port on your graphics card.

Step 6
Place the cover back onto the tower; tighten the screws that hold the cover in place.

Step 7
Re-attach all of the cables to their original locations, with the exception of the monitor cable, which you should now attach to the available serial port on your new graphics card. Plug the power cord into power supply last.

Step 8
Turn on your computer. In most cases, the computer will automatically detect the new graphics card and your monitor will display all of the basic start-up procedures.

Step 9
Install the drivers from the disk that was included with the graphics card. Instructions should be included with the disk.

Step 10
Adjust the resolution of your monitor to your personal preferences.

Tips & Warnings

– Although not necessary, a anti-static strip can be useful when it comes to working on computers. If you do not have one, you can simply discharge any static you may have by touching the metal framework of your PC tower before beginning work on the internal components.

– Always check your motherboard before purchasing a new graphics card. This way you don’t make the mistake of purchasing a card only to find out that your motherboard does not have the necessary interface to connect it.

– Static discharge can potentially destroy a computer. Always ground yourself before working on a computer.

– If at all possible, avoid working on a computer in a carpeted room. This can build up a static charge that can potentially damage computer hardware.

– Never work on a computer while it is still powered up. This can result in damage to the PC and potential electrocution.