How to Upgrade PCI Video Card for HP Xw6200

by Ty Arthur
Installing a new video card gives your computer more graphical power.

Installing a new video card gives your computer more graphical power.

video card image by TEA from Fotolia.com

Upgrading your computer's video card is a quick way to dramatically boost its graphics power for 3D programs or games. The HP Xw6200 desktop computer comes from the factory with a PCI video card already installed, but eventually the card may not be able to handle the demands of newer programs. When you are ready for a better graphical experience, you can upgrade the current PCI card with a replacement card.

Step 1

Power off the HP Xw6200 and any other peripheral devices that are attached to the computer. Remove each of the cables attached to the Xw6200's ports.

Step 2

Position the Xw6200 computer over on its right side on a flat work area. Lift up the release latch at the far left end of the access panel. Pull up the access panel and remove it from the HP computer.

Step 3

Locate the existing PCI video card in the row of expansion card ports at the bottom left corner of the Xw6200's motherboard. Remove the small retaining screw that attaches the card to the exterior of the rear computer panel. Push down the green retaining clips on the sides of the PCI video card.

Step 4

Grab the edges of the PCI video card and pull it straight up and off the PCI port. Line up the notches on the bottom edge of the new PCI video card with the holes on the card port.

Step 5

Press the card down until it locks into the PCI port. Lift the green retaining clips back into place. Put the access panel onto the side of the Xw6200 and push down the release latch.

Step 6

Reconnect each of the cables you removed earlier and turn on the HP Wx6200. Put the new PCI video card's installation CD into the computer's disk drive. Follow the driver installation instructions on the screen.

Tip

  • When working inside your HP Xw6200 computer, ground yourself either by wearing an electrostatic discharge wrist strap or by touching your fingers against the unpainted metal segment on the back of the computer case.
  • PCI video cards for your HP Xw6200 are available through Web retailers that sell computer components and peripherals.

Resources

About the Author

Ty Arthur has been writing technical and entertainment-related articles for a variety of online sources since 2008. His articles have appeared on Metalunderground.com and many other websites. Arthur attended the Great Falls College of Technology and studied both computer science and creative writing.

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