Upgrade Your Video Card

The quality of the images you see on your computer are an important part of your computer experience. Upgrading to a more powerful video card improves your ability to view images, render graphics, and work in 3d. Fast video cards were once thought to be for gamers only, but graphic designers, film editors, 3D compositors, and anyone who wants a smoother more vivid and more quickly rendered image on their computer also find they need the extra power.

The CPU ( central processing unit) of your computer supplies processing power. On systems without video cards it also handles graphics processing. When you add a video card to your system the graphics processing is handled by a separate processor in the video card. Video cards have their own memory. They also, like the CPU, require power.

The first step once you've decided to upgrade your video card is to determine which type of connections you have.

Three types of video card connections:

PCI Express:

PCI Express is the connection type found on the newest systems. This is the option you hope to find when you open your computer case. The newest and most powerful graphics cards require this type of connection. Two PCI Express slots which allow for dual video card configurations are even better.

AGP

AGP is the older video card connection option. Many video card manufacturers release new products as PCI Express then months later, if at all, release a scaled back AGP version.

PCI

PCI is the original method for connecting video cards to computers. If you find this is the type of connection you have you may want to consider upgrading your computer. If this is not possible you may need to find older or used video cards that are able to connect via PCI.

Most video cards connect to monitors with two main types of connection. Some also offer other options. Many video cards allow two or more monitor connections at the same time.

Connecting the monitor to the video card

DVI (digital video interface) is the connection for LCD screens

VGA (visual graphics array) for CRT screens. CRT monitors can connect to DVI with an adapter. The connection does not work the same for LCD to VGA.

Many cards also offer connections for

S-videoanalog
video in/video out
FireWire
USB

Video cards need power.
Often when upgrading a video card you will also need to upgrade your power supply. The maximum wattage is listed on the power supply. 350W is the minimum for running a video card. Depending on the video card you choose you may require up to 500W. Make sure to check the manufacturers recommendations.

The hardest part of upgrading your video card is deciding which card will work with your computer. Once you've checked your connections and upgraded your power the rest is easy. Install your new video card and enjoy a faster more vivid computer experience.