A computer's PCI slots allow you to install a wide variety of add-on cards, such as extra USB ports, wireless cards, or dedicated sound cards. Installing a PCI card is one of the simplest tasks you can do on a computer and takes only a few minutes.
Steps
Step 1. Unplug your computer
Unplug the power plug and any other cables connected to the back of your computer. If you have recently stopped using your computer, wait a few minutes before proceeding to cool down the temperature.
Note: Some PCI cards require drivers to be installed before hardware. However, these are rare cases. Always remember to read the PCI card documentation before installing it
Step 2. Open your computer
PCI cards must be connected to the motherboard, and it is therefore necessary to open the computer in order to access it. Lay the case on a table so that the connectors on the back are facing away from the work surface. By opening the case you will have access to the motherboard and PCI slots.
- Many homes use screws that can be unscrewed by hand. Some of them instead require the use of a screwdriver.
- Avoid placing your computer on a carpet. It is easy for the friction with the carpet to generate electrostatic discharges.
Step 3. Identify the PCI slots
You should see rectangular slots on your motherboard, and each should have a corresponding slot on the case. There are usually one or two PCIe slots near the processor that are used for the video card, followed by one or more PCI slots. The latter may be empty or may be occupied by one or more additional cards.
If you can't find the PCI slots, consult your motherboard documentation
Step 4. Remove the metal dock cover on the case
Each PCI slot has an associated socket on the back of the computer. When nothing is installed these connections are protected by a special metal cover. You can remove it by unscrewing the single screw that holds it in place. Keep the screw you just removed.
Do not remove the metal covers of the slots you do not use, otherwise you risk getting more dust inside the computer over time
Step 5. Avoid static electricity
Before touching any electronic component you should make sure that no static electricity has accumulated on your body. This can in fact easily damage the sensitive components of which the computer is made.
You can discharge static electricity that has built up on your body by touching any metal object of an appropriate size
Step 6. Remove the PCI card from the package it is in
Grasp the PCI card by the sides and avoid touching the contacts on the bottom or the circuitry it is made of.
Step 7. Insert the card
Line up the contacts on the PCI card with the slot you have chosen to install it into. Firmly push the card into the chosen PCI slot. Before continuing, make sure the card is firmly anchored in the corresponding PCI slot.
If you have space available, leave a free slot between the PCI card you just installed and any other cards that already exist. This will help keep the temperature of the components low
Step 8. Secure the PCI card in place
Take the screw you previously removed from the metal cover and screw it back in at the same place. Squeeze it firmly without overdoing it.
The PCI card you just installed will be laid out horizontally when the computer is running, which is why securing it in place is very important
Step 9. Shut down your computer
Put the side panel back on the computer and secure it in place. Put the computer back in its place and connect any cables you removed earlier. Avoid connecting cables to the newly installed PCI card for now.
Step 10. Install the PCI card drivers
Start your computer and wait for the operating system to load. In some cases the PCI card you have installed will be automatically recognized and can be used immediately. In other cases it is necessary to manually install the drivers that are supplied with the card.
- Typically, drivers need to be installed before the card can function properly.
- You may need to restart your computer after installing the drivers.
Step 11. Attack your devices
If the PCI card you installed provides USB ports you can now try connecting your USB peripherals. If it is a sound card instead, try connecting the speakers. Finally, if it is a wireless card you can now attach the antenna.
