How to install Computer Hardware Components

Computers have many hardware components that contribute to the performance of the overall system. The computer's brain is known as the motherboard, but its memory is called RAM. All graphics are displayed via the video card. Files and software are stored on the hard drive. These parts are easy to replace when they fail or need upgraded.

Before you do anything

Turn the computer system off, and make sure that it is completely unplugged. Even after it is unplugged, the power supply holds some electrical charge, so be careful when working around that component. Make sure that you discharge any electricity on your body because static can damage sensitive electronic computer parts. This can be accomplished by touching something metal away from the computer. Remove the screws in the case and open it, exposing the inside of the computer. 

Installing a new hard drive

Locate the hard drive. Remove it from its location in the computer case, being careful to retrieve the screws. Follow its cables to the motherboard and power supply. Unplug the cable from the hard drive and set it aside. Take the new hard drive and plug the cable into its appropriate slot. Make sure that the cables are plugged in tightly at both the motherboard and power supply. Reassemble the case. Turn the computer back on and then format the hard drive. It is now ready for use.

Installing a new video card

Locate the old graphics card. Make sure that the card you have purchased is of the same type. These are typically PCI, PCI-Express, or rarely AGP. This will be located in the specifications for the video card. Most cards are slipped into the slot, and have brackets holding them in place. The tiny screws will need removed. Also, carefully unplug the cord that plugs into the power supply. Seat the new card in the slot, replace screws, and plug it into the power supply.

Installing RAM

RAM is one of the easiest hardware components to replace. It is just a simple matter of making sure that you know much RAM your motherboard can handle. You can look online to see what type of RAM works with your computer. RAM is held into slots with pressure brackets. You can simple push these out of place, remove the old pieces, and replace with new.

Troubleshooting

If you come across any trouble, make sure that everything is plugged correctly into the correct spots. This includes all cables, plus making sure that video cards and RAM are “seated” securely in their slots. Make sure all drivers are installed for each hardware component, and that they are updated. Some components may rarely arrive ‘dead-on-arrival,” so if nothing works to have a piece work properly, that may be the answer. Check with the manufacturer to see what to do in this case.