Created At 1 month ago
Removing a graphics card from a computer can be a major hassle if you need to know what you're doing. This article covers removing gpu from a computer without damaging the system.
To help you keep the card and your computer in working order, we'll also give you some safety precautions. If you follow these steps precisely, you should be able to take out your graphics card without any hassle.
A graphics card enables a computer to render visual content for a display screen. Graphics cards also provide visual effects and the ability to render three-dimensional images (like those seen in video games).
Although most modern computers already have a graphics card installed, you can usually upgrade its performance by adding a dedicated graphics card.
Discrete graphics cards and integrated graphics cards are the two most common varieties. In contrast to an integrated graphics card, which shares the computer's RAM and CPU, a discrete graphics card has its dedicated memory (VRAM) and processor (GPU).
Although discrete graphics cards are superior to their integrated counterparts in raw performance, they have the disadvantage of being bulkier and more difficult to install. Although integrated graphics cards are simpler and cheaper to set up, discrete graphics cards provide superior performance.
An integrated graphics card should suffice if you only play casual games or don't work with graphics often. If you're on a tight budget yet want a gaming PC, integrated graphics are fine. Using an integrated card does have certain drawbacks, though.
They are not upgradable: When you buy a motherboard with built-in graphics, you're stuck using that particular graphics card.
As a result, they lack the strength to: When it comes to processing power, integrated graphics cards have less to offer because they have to share the computer's RAM and CPU. If you wish to use your computer for graphical tasks or play newer games, this may be an issue.
They may be problematic for setups involving two displays: Your computer's integrated graphics card can struggle to power two monitors.
You'll want to take out your graphics card in a few scenarios. This could be the case if you're trying to fix an issue with your present card or switching to a newer, better one.
If your graphics card is broken, you may need to replace it.
The procedure is straightforward if you remove your graphics card to install a newer model. You'll have everything set up quickly if you follow the instructions below.
You can fully skip this step if you're cleaning your GPU or replacing it with a similar GPU and keeping the same drivers.
Having the software side of things ready for a new GPU is recommended before physically removing the old one from your PC. An application called Display Driver Uninstaller (or DDU for short) may remove any outdated GPU drivers from your computer.
As any trace of the previous GPU driver could potentially create difficulties with your new GPU or when installing the clean drivers for your new GPU, this tool guarantees a trouble-free installation of the new GPU driver. This is especially true when switching from one GPU brand to another or when replacing your present GPU with one many generations older or younger.
Visit Guru3D to acquire the DDU download link. Instructions on how to use the application may be found both on the website and within the downloaded software in case you miss them the first time. If you follow the steps in the guide, updating your PC's drivers won't be a problem.
If your computer is already turned off, you can also skip this. After the required reboot from the DDU program, your computer should be running on the operating system's display drivers and be nearly free of any old third-party GPU drivers; you may now shut down your computer to properly begin the breakdown phase of this guide.
It's time to start getting rough now. After powering down your computer, you can begin removing its components and preparing it for disassembly. Locate a clear, clutter-free space, such as a large table or workshop, and bring your computer.
If you don't have anywhere else to put your desk, you can set it up on the floor. Keep the space you plan to work in clean, dust-free, and equipped with a mat. If you want to avoid misplacing your PC's vital components, like its screws for the chassis or the housing for the GPU itself, it's a good idea to keep your tools and materials neat and orderly in fashion.
It's not so much a step as a continual reminder. If you're working on the guts of your PC, you should ground yourself to prevent shorting out any components from the static electricity that builds up whenever you move something from one surface to another.
Touching any metal part of your computer casing will cause the static electricity to discharge, safely grounding you. Touching your PC's case is fine, but touching the case of your power supply is preferable.
Especially if you're constantly on the move, it's a good idea to center yourself before handling any internal components of your computer.
Additionally, you can wear an anti-static bracelet, which is a bracelet with a ground cable linked to it, in case you worry that you might forget to take this precaution occasionally. You can wear it on your wrist or ankle and attach the alligator clip directly to your computer's power brick. Because of this, you won't have to worry about building up any static electricity in your body.
Your PC deconstruction can now begin, starting with the side panel. To access the inside of your PC, remove the screws that secure the side panel and set it to one side. The screws it has maybe thumb screws that can be released by hand, or they may be regular screws that require a tool.
With the exposed graphics processing unit (GPU), you can disconnect the PCI Express (PCIe / PCI-E) wires currently attached to it. It is common to find these cables attached to the side of the GPU. To get them out of the slots, give them a light tug.
Always pull the cables away from the plastic connections to avoid ripping the wires. Holding the GPU by its cooling fans or, if it has one, the backplate can provide additional stability.
Since water-cooling hoses and GPU mounting brackets are not commonly included in a standard PC build, it is up to you to learn more about them.
The next step is to remove the GPU by unscrewing its mounting screws. The PCIe expansion holes at the back of the chassis have these screws covering them. Since the GPU requires two expansion holes for its interface, it is often secured to the case with two screws. Get a screwdriver handy since you'll need one.
The clamps holding the graphics processing unit (GPU) to the motherboard's PCIe expansion slots must be unclipped next. To locate these clips, look for the connection pins on the GPU. Remove these clips in any way specified by your motherboard manufacturer.
Some motherboards have snap-open clips that make removing the graphics card as simple as snapping them open again, while others require you to hold down the clips steadily as you remove the GPU. Be cautious about undoing the clamps to protect your GPU and motherboard properly.
The graphics processing unit (GPU) can be removed from the PCIe expansion slot when the clips have been undone or held down. You should grab the GPU by its cooling housing and pull it as straight as possible. It's important to keep your hands off the GPU's PCB side to prevent corrosion from grease and moisture.
Congratulations! Now that the graphics card has been removed, you can use the PCIe expansion slot for something else.
You can skip this if all you're doing is cleaning your GPU. Now that it's available, you may put the GPU away until you're ready to use it. Keep your GPU in its original packaging, including an anti-static bag. To protect it from static electricity, place it in a special bag.
A graphics card can be easily removed and reinstalled, but before you do so, you should remember a few things. First, always exercise caution when working with electronic parts. Avoid exerting too much stress on or dropping your graphics card since this could damage the hardware.
It's also important to ensure you're grounded before entering the computer. The risk of static electricity damaging your equipment is reduced by doing this. Finally, don't be afraid to ask for assistance from an expert if you're struggling. They'll know how to set things up and can help you along the way.
Don't be afraid to ask for assistance from a technician if you encounter any problems while attempting to remove your graphics card. They'll know how to set things up and can help you along the way.
Either do an internet search or ask about at your local electronics shop to discover a computer technician in your neighborhood. Having located a helpful party, all you need to do is describe the problem to them.
The removal of a graphics card is a simple task. Swapping your card for a new one will be a breeze with their assistance. However, caution is advised. Ask for assistance from an expert if you need clarification on your abilities.
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