FAST PC How To Build A PC - A Comprehensive Guide Matt Totten -
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Video Cards Video cards are among the fastest-changing components out there. That's one reason why they deserve their own subsection during installation. Hopefully, before you ordered anything, you read my Fast PC's Video Card section to learn the difference between AGP and PCI Express. Here's a quick way to determine if you've made the correct purchase (hopefully you have, so you can continue the installation with me and not have to come back later!). Take a look at the images to the right; one of these you should see on your motherboard; they should be located on the left edge of the motherboard. PCI Express slots are becoming the most prevalent, but you still may encounter an AGP slot now and then.

PCI Express Slot     AGP Slot

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At the back of the case, there are a number of thin strips of metal either welded on or held by a screw.

These are called 'blanking plates', and must be removed before inserting the video card. Remove the plate with the corresponding Video Card slot (either the AGP or PCI Express slot).

As you unpack your adapter card, try to handle it by the edges and not touch anything that looks important.

Before attempting to insert the card, take a look again at either the AGP slot or PCI Express slot in your computer. Does the off-center notch remind you of anything? (think about the RAM we installed earlier).

Make sure you align the video card with the corresponding notch before attempting to insert the card.

Press firmly and evenly on the video card as you insert it into the slot. Make sure the latch clasps the card, and give it one last, firm, even push to make sure it's connected.

The inserted card should now look something very similar to that depicted above.

Now, we are ready to move on to the other cards you need to install in your PC.

   

PCI Cards

Now you probably have more cards to install, most likely at least a sound card. Before removing any more blanking plates and installing your cards, consider this.

You want your PC that you've spent countless hours ordering and building to last as long as possible, correct? So as you install however many PCI cards you have, try to space them out as evenly as possible. Consider giving extra space for the video card, as they tend to give off more heat than other cards do.

Regular PCI Slot

The installation process of PCI cards is very similar to the process you followed with the video card.

Remove the blanking strip for the slot you plan on installing the card in.

Make sure to handle the card by the edges, and again, try not to touch anything that looks too important on the card.

Align the card with the notches (see the picture above for the 'off-center' notch). Push evenly and firmly on the card.

 

We are getting closer and closer to having a finished, FAST PC! Next, we are going to install the CD/DVD Drives.

Next: Assemble a Computer: Installing the CD & DVD Drives

Skip Ahead

Assembly Supplies   The Case   Mounting the Motherboard   Installing the Processor   Mounting the CPU Cooler   Installing the RAM   Configuring the Motherboard   Installing the Video Card & PCI Cards   CD & DVD Drives   Hard Drive   Installing the Case Fan   Post-Assembly Guide   How Fast Is It?   System Benchmark Results   Video Card Drivers Settings   BIOS Settings   Free Software   BIOS Flash Updates And Driver Updates   Help and Support