Computer Hardware:
     • Tools, Static & Cleaning
     • Form Factor
     • PC Case & Fans
     • Motherboard
     • Processor (CPU)
     • Power Supply Unit
     • RAM
     • Hard Drive
     • Solid State Drive
     • Optical Drive
     • Floppy Disk Drive
     • Graphics Card
     • Sound Card
     • Network Card
     • Computer Monitor
     • Keyboard & Mouse
     • Laptop / Netbook
     • Building a Computer
     • Overclocking

Operating System & Backup:
     • Operating System
     • Drivers
     • Windows Tools
     • User Accounts
     • Backup
     • Windows 10

Internet & Network:
     • Internet
     • Wi-fi or Cable
     • Improve Broadband Speed
     • Network Computers

Computer Peripherals:
     • Printer
     • Scanner
     • External Hard Drive
     • USB Flash Drive

Computer Security:
     • Anti-virus
     • Anti-Spyware
     • Phishing
     • Firewall

Common PC Problems:
     • Slow Computer
     • Hardware Failure
     • Software Failure
     • Printing Problems

Miscellaneous:
     • Windows Shortcuts
     • Glossary of Terms
     • HTML Colour Picker
     • Number Base Converter

Upgrading Graphics Card

First, determine if your motherboard has the older AGP or the newer PCIe x16 slot and purchase the correct Graphics Card. Also make sure that your Power Supply Unit (PSU) has sufficient wattage to power the card.

Many new Graphics Cards also require you to plug a 6 or 8 pin power connector straight into the card so you will need your PSU to support this.

PCI Graphics Card and PCIe x16 slot on motherboard:

PCI Graphics Card and PCIe x16 slot on motherboard.

1. Back-up all of your important files.

2. Make sure the power is unplugged and press the power button to drain any power from the computer.

3. Follow anti-static procedures, and have your tools at hand. Open the computer case.

4. If you are replacing a Graphics Card then remove the old card which is usually held in place with one screw although this depends on the computer case design. Gently pull the old card out of the motherboard.

5. Be careful when handling the new graphics card and don't touch any contacts. If this is a new computer case then you will need to remove the blanking plate that corresponds to the AGP or PCIe x16 slot.

AGP Graphics Card and AGP slot on motherboard:

AGP Graphics Card and AGP slot on motherboard.
6. Align the new Graphics Card with the AGP or PCIe x16 slot so that the monitor ports are towards the rear of the computer case and gently push it into the slot. Be aware that the new card may overhang the adjacent expansion slot. Secure the card into position with a screw if your case supports this.

6+2 pin PCIe power plug and 6 pin Graphics Card socket:

6+2 pin PCIe power plug and 6 pin Graphics Card socket.
7. If the Graphics Card requires a 6 or 8 pin power plug to be fitted then it should now be connected. The photograph above shows a Graphics Card with a 6 pin socket and a 6+2 pin PCIe power plug leading from the power supply unit. With this Graphics Card you would just plug the 6 pin plug into the 6 pin socket and leave out the 2 pin plug.

8. Close the computer case and connect mouse, keyboard, and power lead. You will also need to connect the monitor to the Graphics card port (usually VGA, HDMI or DVI) at the back of the computer.

Graphics Card Ports HDMI, VGA and DVI:

Graphics Card Ports VGA and DVI.

9. Boot the computer and the Graphics Card should be detected automatically. Look in the Device Manager to make sure that your Graphics Card has been detected properly.

10. Install the manufacturer's driver either from the included disk which came with your new card, or better still, from the manufacturer's website.

MENU (Graphics Card):
1. Graphics Card 2. Upgrade Graphics Card 3. Dual Graphics Cards
4. Overclocking