Removing or installing an expansion card
The computer has two PCI Express x1 expansion sockets, one PCI Express x16 expansion socket, and one PCI
Express x16 expansion socket that is downshifted to a x4 socket.
NOTE: You can install a PCI Express x1, x8, or x16 expansion card in the PCI Express x16 socket.
For dual graphics card congurations, the rst (primary) card must be installed in the PCI Express x16 socket
that is NOT downshifted to a x4.
To remove, replace, or add an expansion card:
1. Remove/disengage any security devices that prohibit opening the computer.
2. Remove all removable media, such as compact discs or USB ash drives, from the computer.
3. Turn o the computer properly through the operating system, and turn o any external devices.
4. Disconnect the power cord from the AC outlet and disconnect any external devices.
IMPORTANT: Regardless of the power-on state, voltage is always present on the system board as long
as the system is plugged into an active AC outlet. You must disconnect the power cord to avoid damage
to the internal components of the computer.
5. Remove the computer access panel.
6. Release the slot cover retention latch that secures the slot covers by lifting the tab on the latch and
rotating the latch to the open position.
7. Locate the correct vacant expansion socket on the system board and the corresponding expansion slot
on the back of the computer chassis.
8. Before installing an expansion card, remove the expansion slot cover or the existing expansion card.
NOTE: Before removing an installed expansion card, disconnect any cables that may be attached to
the expansion card.
a. If you are installing an expansion card in a vacant socket, you must slide one of the expansion slot
covers up and out of the chassis or use a at-bladed screwdriver to pry out one of the metal
14 Chapter 2 Hardware upgrades
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