Alienware ALX, User Manual

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Alienware ALX Desktop Manual
7
Installing Expansion Cards
Installing a PCI Express x16 Video Card
Done properly, installing a video card is a simple process. To begin, ensure that any
previous video card drivers have been uninstalled. After Windows has completed
uninstalling the video card’s drivers, restart the computer – do not shut it down. When
Windows restarts, it will detect the video card and prompt you to install its drivers.
Cancel this process by clicking the Cancel button in the Found New Hardware dialog.
Shut down the computer.
Once your computer has completely shut down, disconnect it from any peripherals
and power sources. Open the computer’s chassis to gain access to its internal
components.
Locate your computer’s video card in the motherboard’s PCI-E x16 slot.
Refer to the technical reference provided on your system’s Windows Desktop for more
information about your system’s expansion slots. Your system’s technical reference
is also available for download from your My Hive® Personal Support Area on the
Alienware website.
Visit: http://support.alienware.com/
Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the video card’s fastening screw and keep it
safely where it will not be lost; you will need it to secure the new video card.
Carefully remove the video card from the motherboard’s PCI-E x16 slot; if the PCI-E x16
slot features an integrated PCI-E x16 retention mechanism, disengage the mechanism
with one hand and start the video card out of the PCI-E x16 slot with the other. Once the
video card is free from the retention mechanism, continue to gently pull the card from
the PCI-E x16 slot in order to remove it.
Some PCI Express x16 slots feature an integrated card retention
mechanism. Removing a PCI Express x16 card without disengaging this
mechanism can permanently damage the PCI Express x16 card and / or
the motherboard.