Correct way to install graphics card?

[lee1101]

Evening,

This is probably a very silly question, but what is the correct procedure for installing a GPU?

I know how to physically install it. When I boot up for the first time do I still use the onboard HDMI output, then install the drivers, reboot and then plug into the graphics cards HDMI output?

Sorry if its a silly question, just not sure of the correct way of doing it

Thanks

 

[Deceptor]

Are you changing between AMD/nVidia?

If yes then uninstall the drivers first, run driver sweeper if you want - swap the GPUs and boot up with the cable connected to the card and then reinstall the drivers.

If no then you should be able to just swap the card and boot up normally unless you're coming from some old/ancient card that has an older set of drivers.

 

[lee1101]

I have no card at all at the moment.

So I can connect straight up to the new card then boot up and install the drivers?

 

[Deceptor]

Yeah pop it in, boot up, install drivers then enjoy

 

[lee1101]

Great, thank you very much

Now to find which 7870 I want!

 

[arc@css]

If you need a hand with selection, then let us know.

 

[Orcvader]

I have no card at all at the moment.

So I can connect straight up to the new card then boot up and install the drivers?

Not 100% true, you actually do have a GPU, it's built in. Usually when you add in a discrete GPU it will disable the onboard, but the drivers will still linger. However with Windows 7/8 it will be fine to leave the drivers for the onboard GPU, so all you need to do is slot in the card, then install the drivers for the new GPU directly from AMD/Nvidia. No need to run driver sweeper or anything to be honest.

 

[lee1101]

If you need a hand with selection, then let us know.

Thanks, will do.