Installing PCI cards into expansion slots does not have to be a tedious process. In fact, it is quite easy. Many of us have at one time or another needed to add an extra device to our computer so as to expand its capabilities. Some of the more common PCI cards that are usually added include Sound Cards, Video Cards, extra USB/Firewire ports, Modems, Network Interface Cards (NIC’s), and so on. No matter the type, there comes a time when we need to put one in but do not necessarily have the money to do so. DIY (Doing It Yourself) is the way to go now.

The first thing you need to do is to ensure that there is no power going to the computer, so unplug the power cord. You then need to remove the case (most modern towers need to have only one side of the case removed). Then locate the PCI slot that you wish to use (whether the long or short one).

The brown coloured slot is generally for AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) Video Cards. The others that are white in colour are for any other PCI device. After identifying where you want to place the PCI Card, remove the protective plate on the chassis of the case, carefully insert the PCI Card and then screw it in place (NOTE: ensure that you push the card down evenly into the slot as inserting it at an angle can result in damage to the card and the slot). Put the case cover back on and then apply power to the computer. When Windows comes up it will automatically detect the new card (as long as PnP [Plug and Play] is enabled in the BIOS). The device will normally be installed by the OS, but always have the installation disk handy in case it is requested. After the installation has completed, your device will be ready for us.