A video card is one of the main components of a personal computer. If in a laptop, netbook and other portable devices, the video adapter is replaced by a graphics accelerator built into the processor, then this device is mandatory in a gaming PC. If you have any problems in use and operation, then you can remove any component and check it in the service, or carry out diagnostics yourself. We will figure out how to remove the video card from the computer, and what needs to be prepared for this.
Necessary preparation
Before you remove the graphics adapter from the PC case, you need to remove it in the software. If you are going to use a PC with integrated graphics while cleaning the video card, then this must be done. Follow the instructions provided:
- Open Device Manager.
- In the list of connected equipment, find the line with your video card and click on it with the right mouse button.
- In the menu that appears, select "Disconnect device."
- Now restart your computer and unplug it.
Now let's talk about how to remove a video card from a computer.
Removing a video card
Before opening the case, be sure to disconnect the device from the power supply. On the back of the power supply, press the power button and unplug the cable from the outlet. Remove the side cover of the housing on one side. The second side is not needed, since there is only the back of the motherboard.
Opening the cover, you need to find the right device. The mount for the video card is usually located at the bottom of the motherboard horizontally. Port for PCI x16 graphics card. If you have an ATX motherboard, then you can build a computer with two video cards instead of one, which will give an increase in power.
To remove, you will need only one simple tool - a screwdriver or a hex key, depending on the mounting bolt. Due to the heavy weight, the video card must be supported not only by the connector, but also by the side mount. Find the desired bolt on the back of the case and unscrew.
Now gently pull the graphics card towards you. If it does not lend itself, then check the connector for retaining plates. By slightly moving them with one hand, with the other you can remove the video card from the computer.
If your processor has a built-in graphics core, then you can use a personal computer without a third-party video card. However, power and performance will be much lower.
Cleaning the graphics card
You can clean the cooling system and the board manually or send the equipment to a specialized service. If you decide to do it yourself, then prepare dry wipes, an air compressor, brushes / brushes. It is also recommended to change the thermal grease and lubricate the cooler. To do this, remove the upper protection, if any, and the cooling system.
After completing all the work, reinstall the video card, plug it into the "Device Manager" of the Windows operating system and check the operation. Usually, after preventive dusting and lubrication of the cooler, the performance of PC components rises slightly. Now you know how to remove a video card from a computer and clean it yourself.