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 configurations, the first (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 flash drives, from the computer.
3. Turn off the computer properly through the operating system, then turn off any external devices.
4. Disconnect the power cord from the power outlet and disconnect any external devices.
CAUTION: 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. Remove the screw that holds down the expansion card retention latch (1), and then slide the latch up (2)
and pull it off the rear of the chassis (3).
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 flatblade screwdriver to pry out one of the metal shields
14 Chapter 2 Hardware upgrades
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