If you want games, graphics, and other multimedia programs to run faster, upgrading to a more powerful graphics card should be your first priority.
And the demands of Microsoft's Windows Vista, with its 3D-accelerated Aero interface, gives you another reason to upgrade. To run Aero you'll need at least a DirectX-9-capable graphics chip with 128MB of dedicated memory onboard. With a DirectX-10-capable graphics chip with at least 256MB or 512MB of dedicated memory the Vista experience will be even better.
What if you’re a Windows XP user and want to upgrade your graphics card. First check what type of card you need. Either one that fits an AGP slot or the newer style PCI slot. Make sure you buy the right type!
In addition to the graphics card, you'll need a small, nonmagnetic Phillips screwdriver and a simple anti-static grounding strap that attaches to your wrist.
Belkin Anti - Static Wristband
Have the Graphic Cards CD with its driver and installation software readily available.
TIP - It's also a good idea to download the latest version of these drivers from the graphics card manufacturer's Web site because graphics cards are notorious for shipping with drivers that are not up to date.
Start by uninstalling your old card's drivers in Windows. Right-click My Computer, select Properties, and under the Hardware tab click on Device Manager. Listed under Display Adapter, Double-click the name of your current graphics card and under the Driver tab click the Uninstall button.
Now uninstall any other software used to manage your current card by running Add or Remove Programs in the Windows Control Panel (available in the Start menu). Typically these programs will be listed under ATI, NVIDIA or the model name of your graphics card. Shut down your PC once you've taken care of the software.
If your PC has integrated graphics on the motherboard (i.e. there's no separate graphics card), you'll likely have to disable it before installing a new card. This will involve a trip to the BIOS. Pressing the delete or esc key repeatedly as your computer starts up will usually take you into the BIOS. Check your PC manual for details.
Unplug your PC and position it so that you can comfortably reach into the case's interior. If you have a tower case, you'll find it easier to install a graphics card if you lay the case on its side. Remove the PC’s cover, usually held in by screws or clips.
Protect your PC's delicate circuits from static electric charges on your body by properly grounding yourself. If you don't have a grounding strap at least ground your body by touching the metal part on the outside of your PC's case before touching the inside of your PC or any component, including the motherboard.
First, remove the small screw or clip that holds your existing graphics card in place. Then remove the card from its AGP or PCI slot by grabbing its edges and pulling it upward with an even force. You may need to open a small clip at the end of the card slot as you remove the card. If the card seems stuck, try gently rocking it lengthwise but don’t use too much force as you may damage the AGP or PCI slot.
Carefully remove the card from its packaging. Avoid touching the chips or circuits on the face of the card. It’s best to hold the card by the edges only.
Align the card's connector with the expansion slot and gently but firmly push down on the top edge with even pressure until the card is securely seated. Secure the card to the chassis with the existing screw or another clamping mechanism.
Reassemble the PC case and plug back in your monitor, speakers, keyboard and mouse. Reconnect your pc's power cord and turn your computer on.
Now install the graphics card drivers. The best way of doing this is to click Cancel when Windows prompts you to run the installation wizard. Now you can run the installation program CD that came with your new graphics card.
If you have only the card's drivers and no installation program, you can manually install the new card by selecting Add Hardware from the Windows Control Panel. The program will walk you through the installation process and ask for the location of the driver files, which will be either on CD or on your hard drive or a flash drive (if you downloaded them).
The final step is to adjust the graphic settings to your preferences. You can do this by right clicking on your PC’s desktop and selecting Properties and the Settings tab. The Settings tab should state your graphic cards details and give you the opportunity to change the screen resolution and colour quality. You can usually use the software tools that come with your graphics card to achieve even better results.
If you cannot adjust your windows display properties try restarting your PC and trying again. If you still cannot adjust these settings you will have to reinstall the drivers again. Also check that your new graphics card is properly seated in its AGP or PCI slot.
