How to Install Computer Video Cards

The first step I will take is to install the two video cards. I need to check my motherboard user guide to make sure that I am installing the card(s) into the correct slots. I will now hold the video card by the edges and push down into the correct slot. (Example: PCI Express Slot, PCI Slot)

Holding the video card	Inserting the first video card into the correct slot

Now I need to use a mounting screw and secure the card in place within the case.

I decided to use the rear panel firewire connector and install it into the accessory port under the first video card. This is not necessary but I figured I might use it in the future. Different motherboards might come with a variety of these accessory ports and it is a choice whether or not to install them. These accessory ports will also need to be secured with a screw, like the video card.

Securing the video card to the case	Firewire port installed

Because, as I said, I am using two video cards,  I will repeat the first video card process and install the second video card into the proper slot.

Second video card installed

Before I install the SLI bridge for the two video cards, I have to install the two other cards I mentioned before. (Note: The SLI bridge will only be used when installing two video cards that are using SLI technology.) Now I will install the PhysX card. I will hold the card by the outside edges and push it into the proper slot. (Example: PCI slot) The PhysX card with have to be secured to the case using a screw just like the video card(s).

The last card that I will install is a sound card. Again, as with the other cards, I need to hold the card by the edges and push it down into the correct slot. (Example: PCI Slot) Then I need to secure it to the computer case using a screw.

Pushing the Physics card into the proper slot	Pushing the sound card into the correct slot

In order to use the SLI Technology with the two video cards I will have to install the SLI bridge that comes with the motherboard.

The SLI Bridge also came with an SLI guard that installs in one of the expansion slots between the video cards. There is a curved piece attached to the slot that makes sure the SLI Bridge will not hit the side of the computer case. I will now install this.

Installing the SLI bridge	Installing the SLI Guard

Next I will install the Fire wire connector to the motherboard, the PhysX card power connector, and the two PCI Express power connectors from the power supply to the Video cards.

Now I need to reinstall the expansion slot cover to the back of the computer case that covers all of the mounting screws for the cards.

All of the cards have been installed and I am ready to move to the next step.

Step 11: Install Hard Drive