How to install PCI Components

NOTE: PCI is NOT the same as PCI-Express. PCI-Express is a new expansion slot for PCI-Express video cards.

PCI components are installed the same way as AGP video cards except they are inserted into a different slot. There is only one way they can be installed. Some examples of PCI cards are: sound cards, modems, LAN cards (i.e. network cards, ethernet cards), USB/Firewire expansion cards, some older video cards...etc

In this example we are going to install a sound card.

NOTE: It is best not to install all your PCI hardware if you are building from scratch. Only install your video card and sound card right now. Once you have your operating system installed, turn off the computer and install the other components. This saves you from possible problems when loading up for the first time.

1. Remove temporary metal plates. Only remove the metal plates from the slots you are going to use. If you do not remove these, you cannot install any PCI components. Most either unscrew or pop out.

2. Locate PCI Slots on Motherboard. Your PCI Slots should look similar to the ones in the image below.

3. Line up component with PCI slot and install. Simply line up the component with the slot and gently press down on both sides until it slides in place.

4. Insert screw. There is only one screw needed to secure each PCI component in place.

5. Repeat for any other components. Every component is different but as long as its PCI compatible, it is installed the same way (except for the audio cable. It is installed only on sound cards and motherboards.)

NOTE: Like we stated at the beginning of this lesson, it is best not to install all your PCI hardware if you are building from scratch. Only install your video card and sound card right now. Once you have your operating system installed, turn off the computer and install the other components. This saves you from possible problems when loading up for the first time.

Adding sounds from your CD-ROM. Remember that audio cable from the CD-ROM drive? Now we will connect the other end of it, assuming you have your sound card installed. If your sound card is integrated into the motherboard, then continue on. If you have a PCI sound card and it is not installed yet, take a few moments to install it using the above steps on this page.

NOTE: Most of the newer CD-ROMs no longer need this cable. They will send their sound directly through the IDE Cable.

If you want to hear audio when you play a cd in your CD-ROM, you need to connect the CD-ROM to the Sound Card (or motherboard if your sound card is integrated in) using the audio cable as seen below. Refer to your sound card owners manual for correct placement.

If you did not purchase a sound card and you have one integrated into your motherboard, refer to your motherboard owners manual for correct placement.

After you have installed all your PCI hardware components, it is time to install a case fan.