Difference between revisions of "Change a Graphics Card"
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#*If you're installing multiple graphics cards into a single computer, you'll likely need a power supply that provides at least a kilowatt of power. | #*If you're installing multiple graphics cards into a single computer, you'll likely need a power supply that provides at least a kilowatt of power. | ||
#*There is no way to determine a power supply's wattage without physically looking at it. There is no software that can report the wattage. Nearly all power supplies have a sticker that is clearly visible on the side which will tell your the power supply's specifications. You can usually just remove the side panel from your computer and visually inspect the sticker. | #*There is no way to determine a power supply's wattage without physically looking at it. There is no software that can report the wattage. Nearly all power supplies have a sticker that is clearly visible on the side which will tell your the power supply's specifications. You can usually just remove the side panel from your computer and visually inspect the sticker. | ||
| − | #*Many of the more powerful graphics cards require one or two 6-pin connectors (PCIe) from the power supply. Most newer power supplies should have these cables, but older power supplies will not. You can get adapters to connect to one of the other cables, but you may be better off [[Install | + | #*Many of the more powerful graphics cards require one or two 6-pin connectors (PCIe) from the power supply. Most newer power supplies should have these cables, but older power supplies will not. You can get adapters to connect to one of the other cables, but you may be better off [[Install a Power Supply|replacing the power supply]] anyway if it's that old. |
#Measure the space where the graphics card will go. Graphics cards have gotten quite large, and if you have a small case with tight spaces, it may be difficult or even impossible to insert the card you want. Use a tape measure to measure the space where your graphics card will be inserted. Check this space against the specifications of the graphics cards you are looking at. Make sure to pay attention to the width as well, as many of the more powerful cards can be quite wide. | #Measure the space where the graphics card will go. Graphics cards have gotten quite large, and if you have a small case with tight spaces, it may be difficult or even impossible to insert the card you want. Use a tape measure to measure the space where your graphics card will be inserted. Check this space against the specifications of the graphics cards you are looking at. Make sure to pay attention to the width as well, as many of the more powerful cards can be quite wide. | ||
#*A graphics card may take up the width of two PCIe bays, but it will only need to plug into one slot. | #*A graphics card may take up the width of two PCIe bays, but it will only need to plug into one slot. | ||
