Installing a Video Card: A Memoir - Ready, Set, Go!
(Page 3 of 4 )
Having gotten the eight screws from the case, I must have decided to put two of them under the table for safe keeping. They are still safe it appears, since they’re not back on the computer. The case was obviously being held together by will power, and so I used my will power and the big screwdriver to force it open. Again the word ‘case’ implies something that open and close easily, without any bending involved. But this was not to be. With a satisfying thump, the side of the case saw reason and fell onto the floor, gouging a permanent record of my days work into the wood.
Now a word of advice for those of you considering following my example - don’t! But, if you must, then be aware that when you open your computer, you can safely expect there to be more than one “card” inside! Yes, it surprised me, too!
Having started the installation chant “Power lead A, Power lead B, Hard drive D” I eventually stumbled across a card that could only be a graphics card. I deduced this from the position the numeric code and the words “GRAPHIC CARD” written on it. Now, there’s an optional device on AGP slots which slides across and locks the card in place. I felt this was too formal, and would obviously impede me in the event that I would need to do an emergency install. Well okay, I just didn’t see it until the screwdriver had pulled it off, but I am sure it will be just fine. I gripped the old graphics card whilst constantly reciting the chant, touching the metal casing and rubbing my head clockwise. Behold! The card came out quicker than a sailor in a brothel, and quickly joined the side of the casing on the floor. Probably for the best, since that way I won’t drop it again. Looking down at it I realised just how timely the exchange was going ahead; the fan blades had somehow been damaged.
Next: Piece of Cake, Right? >>
More User Experiences Articles
More By Brian
