Multiple video cards in a system can be an improvement for almost anyone; whether you're looking to boost the performance of your games, expand the number of monitors you can support or specifically allocate resources, multiple video cards can assist in this endeavor. Just make sure your motherboard supports the features you want (reference the manual) and that your power supply can handle the demands placed on it from multiple video cards. (The video card manual will state its requirements from the power supply). Regardless of your intentions, it's highly recommended you use identical video cards to avoid driver complications.
Instructions
1. Shut down your computer.
2. Turn off the power switch (if you have one it will be located on the back of your power supply) and unplug the power cord. Wait a minute or so before unplugging the rest of the cords to make sure no electrical current is still in the circuitry.
3. Remove the screws securing the panels of your computer's case and remove the panel that faces the motherboard and its peripherals. This varies widely by case, so if you've never opened your case before (and are experiencing difficulties) please consult the case manufacturer's instructions. In addition,
4. Ground yourself by wearing an anti-static bracelet or by touching something metallic. If you cause static discharge you'll permanently damage the internals of your system.
5. Remove your old video card(s) if you have any installed. You'll need to remove the screw securing each to the case first.
6. Insert each of your new video cards into a PCI-E slot. Make sure each sits firmly in its respective slot, then secure each card to the case with a screw.
If you're planning on using SLI or Crossfire, make sure you connect the bridge cable to each card. (It should have come with your motherboard.) Reference your motherboard manual for any steps needed to enable Crossfire/SLI on your specific model.
7. Check for anything that may have potentially fallen into the case while you were working. A rogue screw will short-circuit your entire system the moment it touches a powered electrical component.
8. Replace the side panel on your case and secure it with screws.
9. Plug in all the necessary cords to the back of your computer with the power cord being the last one.
10. Flip on the power switch and start your computer as you would normally.
Tags: your computer, power supply, video cards, your motherboard, back your, each card, make sure