A powerful graphics card has to be plugged into the computer so that the latest game hits “Assassin’s Creed Valhalla” , “Call of Duty – Black Ops Cold War” , “Cyberpunk 2077” and “Medal of Honor – Above and Beyond” always run smoothly. If the old image maker is too weak, a new one has to be found. Have you decided on a new copy? Then it is time to install the new graphics card. These TechMende instructions on how to install graphics card is easy.
Choosing the right graphics card to install
Modern graphics cards transmit the image signal either via HDMI, DisplayPort or DVI.
Before buying a graphics card, check whether your monitor offers one of the connections. For the monitor, it is advisable to find screens of various sizes and resolutions.
If you have not yet decided on one, take a look at the graphics card comparison test : Here you will find the right image maker for small and large wallets.
The current top model is the MSI GeForce RTX 2080 Super GAMING X TRIO 8GB GDDR6 , which was able to convince with both a good game speed and a low operating volume in the test.
When buying graphics cards, users should pay attention to the connections to the monitor.
Installing a graphics card: the preparation
Before you start, make sure you have a work surface with enough space and good lighting.
The following steps are easier to carry out on a desk than narrow and dark under the desk.
First remove all cables from the computer , then open the cover on the prepared work surface. If you want to install a graphics card, you have to clarify whether there is enough space for it.
Especially if you own a finished PC, take a closer look, because it is rather tight. An Nvidia RTX 2080 Ti is not only extremely expensive, at 31x12x6 centimeters it does not fit into every computer either.
The GeForce GTX 1660 Ti from Zotac is only about half the size (17.35×11.13×3.53 centimeters) and fits into almost any case.
Installing Graphics Card: The right power supply
It is also important to take a look at the power supply.
In many cheap desk PCs there is not enough power and the necessary connections for the separate power supply of the image maker are missing.
The power supply unit must provide sufficient power – PCs with a powerful image maker need up to 530 watts, as the large comparison test showed.
As a rule, a recommendation from the manufacturer is on the cardboard box of the graphics card.
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When it comes to power supplies, it’s not just the raw power that counts, but also the supply of power cables.
A 6-pin and an 8-pin connector are required for many gaming graphics cards. As soon as the two questions of space and power supply have been clarified, you can start.
At least almost: If there is a graphics card in the computer, loosen the fastening screw on the side if necessary, then press down the retaining clip and carefully pull out the circuit board.
The PC power supply unit must provide enough power, otherwise the computer will not work.
Install graphics card: insert new model
If a separate graphics card is missing, the associated elongated slot can usually be found directly below the processor .
Pay attention to the writing “PCI Express x16” ( P eripheral C omponent I nterconnect) or look in the manual for the mainboard (motherboard).
After gentle pressure, the new graphics card sits firmly in the slot.
Fix it on the side with a screw. Powerful models like the one in the comparison test require a lot of power from the power supply.
So do not forget to supply the image maker with power using a 6- and 8-pin connector; otherwise the motherboard beeps.
The graphics card can be attached to the PC with a screwdriver (Phillips head).
Install graphics card: install driver
A note for everyone who is switching from an old AMD graphics card to a new Nvidia model or vice versa: For a clean installation, uninstall the previous driver completely from the PC.
This works reliably with a free tool called “Display Driver Uninstaller” (DDU) – the instructions describe step-by-step how you can use it to remove your graphics card driver .
Reinstalling the driver is similar for AMD and Nvidia.
Both manufacturers offer an express and a custom installation.
The former is practical when things need to be done quickly: additional programs such as “Nvidia GeForce Experience“ or the AMD wizard for problem reports automatically end up on the hard drive.
The user-defined approach is aimed at advanced users who know what software they need.
