How to change your graphics card?
Why change graphics card?
The graphics card , also called GPU for Graphic Processing Unit, is an essential component of a computer. As its name suggests, it converts digital data into graphical form to display images on a PC screen. The original graphics card is suitable for exclusively office use such as word processing.
On the other hand, it is not always likely to hold up for gaming use or video editing. Like any important component of a PC, the graphics card has a limited longevity. At the end of its lifespan, it can offer low performance and high latency until it completely crashes the computer
To counter the obsolescence of the original graphics card and enjoy a better PC experience, it is advantageous to invest in a more efficient model that is adapted to your computer. The arrival of new technologies such as Ray Tracing pushes graphics cards to constantly evolve. A new generation of GPUs is released approximately every 6 months. Today there are models cut out for 4K and virtual reality.
New video games require more and more power to run optimally. This is also the case with 4K video editing software. Replacing the graphics card in your PC allows you to enjoy better graphics and a smoother display over time.How to upgrade your PC?
How to choose your graphics card?
The role of a new graphics card is to breathe new life into an aging or less efficient computer. Its choice is based on several factors and requires special attention.Check dimensions
You must first examine the inside of the central unit to locate the location of the graphics card. The dimensions of the new GPU must be adapted to those of the previous model. It is important to leave enough space for the heat to dissipate more easily.
Control energy consumption
It is then necessary to check the power supply unit in order to know if it is powerful enough to accommodate the new graphics card. The most powerful GPUs are much more energy intensive than entry-level models.
Check motherboard compatibility
While modern graphics cards all have a PCIe slot, not all motherboards do. Both must be compatible to work. Newer computers are more likely to have PCIe slots than models over 10 years old.
Choose a display suitable for the screen
Most PCs, and especially those dedicated to gaming , leave the choice between Full HD and Ultra HD. The graphics card market today offers models in 4K to enjoy impressive visual details. This is the case of the Nvidia GeForce RTX range . To take advantage of it, you should buy a monitor of the same quality.
Finding the right price/quality ratio
The budget of a graphics card is an important criterion to take into account before making your choice. The price range varies between less than 100 euros and more than 1000 euros. Entry-level and mid-range graphics cards are suitable for office automation and moderate video games. Display quality is not their priority.
High-end models offer extreme features with better buses, frequencies and memories. They are intended for intensive use based on gaming and video editing, and can transform a PC into a real war machine. American manufacturers AMD and Nvidia are the main players in the graphics card market.
1. Uninstall old graphics card drivers
Before removing the old graphics card from your computer, it is strongly advised to remove its drivers to avoid a conflict with the new GPU. It will then be removed from the list of hardware installed on the PC.
To do this, you need to follow these steps:
2. Remove the old graphics card
After uninstalling the drivers for your old GPU, you can proceed to unmount it. It is imperative that this operation be done with delicacy so as not to damage the other components of your PC.
You must have a screwdriver and follow these steps:
remove the old graphics card without forcing it. If it does not manage to come out, check that the screws and the locking system have been removed.
3. Mount the new graphics card
Now that the CPU is open and the old card is removed, all that remains is to install the new GPU. You need to bring a screwdriver, fixing screws and possibly a diagram of the motherboard
