How to install a new video card on a motherboard with an integrated one

From ArticleWorld


Many motherboards today come with an integrated video card. This is usually a cheap, no-frills card, installed for users who do not need much graphical performance and thus do not want to spend money on a powerful (but more expensive) stand-alone card. However, if you decide to purchase a separate video card, you may experience conflicts with the integrated card. The best solution in this case is to disable it. Here is how to do it.

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Steps

The actual method depends greatly on the motherboard you have. However, some general steps can be outlined:

  1. Start by reading the documentation. Your computer must have come with a set of manuals. Search for the actual details in these manuals. It could be a BIOS option, but it may just as well be a jumper on the motherboard. Read it thoroughly, to make sure not just that you do not miss the actual explanation on how to disable your card, but also to make sure you understand any side effects this may have.
  2. Power your computer on. Uninstall the drivers of the old video card and any program associated with it. When you reboot, you will be left with a screen that only displays 16 colors on a 640x480 desktop. This is normal.
  3. You should start by disabling the integrated video card. If this involves using a jumper on the motherboard, you can open the case now. You will have to open it anyhow, when you install the new card.
  4. Disconnect your computer from the main source of power. Unplug the monitor and open the case. Now install the new video card according to the instructions associated with it. Plug the monitor into the VGA/DVI output of the new card.
  5. Reconnect the computer to the main source of power and power it on. If you get video signal, then everything went well. If not, carefully listen to the beeps you received and refer to your motherboard's documentation for details on what they mean.
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Notes

Disabling the old video card is sometimes optional. Newer motherboards can detect if a new one was installed and automatically disable the old one.

The general precautions associated with handling hardware apply here, too.

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