How To Build A Computer Part 7: A Quickie On Expansion Cards

After installing all your drives in How To Build A Computer part 6, you are now near the end and ready to install the expansion cards. This is one of the easiest parts when it comes to putting a computer together.

There are three basic types of expansion slots. They are AGP, PCI, and PCI Express. Modern motherboards usually have a selection of PCI and PCI express slots, but for the video card there's usually either an AGP or a PCI Express slot. Keep in mind that your video card has to be the correct type to match of course.

Expansion cards are the easiest things to install so I'll just use the video card (also known as graphics card) as an example. (The video slot is usually closest to the CPU.)

• The first step is to remove the case cover from the video card slot. It may be held in place by a screw or perhaps it has to be snapped out.
• Insert the card in the slot and gently rock it back and forth to seat it firmly in place.
• Secure it by using one of the big screws to attach the metal bracket to the case.
• The video card will probably have a cooling fan that should be connected to the motherboard for power.
• Look for a 2 or 3 prong connector on the motherboard in the vicinity of the video card and attach the wire from the fan.
• That's it you're done!

You can follow the same procedure with any additional other expansion cards that you have. These could include network adapters, sound cards, and TV tuners. What you need to remember here is to always make sure the cards are seated firmly in the slot and secure them with a screw.

How To Build A Computer Part 7