How to install a graphics card | ASUS GeForce GT 430 1GB PCI-E

Many modern motherboards have integrated graphics. They are suitable for every day tasks such as browsing the web, email, word processing etc. For many people the integrated graphics is more than enough for their needs. However, if you are into 3D Games, CAD, or other application that requires GPU acceleration then you will need a dedicated graphics card. Nearly all graphics card made nowadays are PCI-E based and have either Nvidia or ATI (AMD) chipset.

This is an nvidia GT430 graphics card. This model is made by Asus and has VGA, DVI and HDMI connectors. Remove the metal plate covering the PCI Express slot. If you have more than one PCI Express slot make sure you choose the PCI Express x16 slot.

Align the card with the slot and press down on the card until it is fully seated in the slot. Make sure the metal contacts on the card are completely inserted into the slot. There is a latch at the end of the slot which locks the card into place. Finally screw the card down using a screw driver so its securely seated.

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To power up your motherboard you need to attach the power cables from the power supply unit. Your case has many header cables which also needs to be connected to the motherboard so the switches, led, usb sockets on front panel of the case functions properly.

Label 1 below shows the location of the ATX 2.0 power connector. It has 24 pins. It powers the motherboard and all the components. It has a fool proof design and only fits one way. Place the connector on top of the power socket making sure you are holding it the right way. Push the connector into the socket until it locks into position.

Label 2 shows the location of ATX 12 Volts connector. It has 4 pins. It powers the processor. The connector only fits one way. Push the connector into the socket until it locks into place.

Label 3 shows the location for the header connectors. Your case has header cables for front USB, firewire, power switch, power LED, reset switch, speaker, etc. Connect each header cable to the labeled header as shown below. While attaching these little cables make sure the positive and negative pins are correct. Read your motherboard manual for more details.

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Before you close the case double check everything to make sure you have not missed anything like attaching a cable. Make sure you have no screws lying around as it can short the motherboard. Slide the side panel back on to the case and close the screws. If you are feeling confident you can leave the case open and power up the PC just to see if it boots and all the fans are spinning. You can also test your power button and reset button to make sure they work before closing the case. You have now completed building a PC from scratch.