If you are always using your PC, the storage space in use is bound to increase. This can cause your PC to be slow while operating it.
The GPU is responsible for the visual quality of all graphics on your system, and a damaged or faulty GPU can slow down your system.
Not to worry, though. Changing or removing a GPU from the motherboard is quite easy. This article will guide you through all the steps involved.
What Is a GPU?
Before you learn how to remove a GPU, it is only proper that you have an adequate understanding of what it is.
GPU stands for Graphics Processing Unit. It is a chip responsible for all the image and graphics rendering in an electronic device. It gives you those 2D and 3D resolutions you see on your screen.
Beyond image rendering, a GPU is important for gaming and video editing. Higher-performing GPUs tend to keep up with improved display technologies like 4K and refresh rates.
Many people often call the GPU a ‘graphics card .’This is not entirely wrong, as the graphics card is the chip physically attached to the motherboard. It is responsible for presenting images to the display unit of your PC.
The GPU is a unit within the graphics card. It combines all the processes that lead to image and video rendering.
The storage capacity of a GPU is in gigabytes (GB). The memory of a GPU is called a VRAM. A higher VRAM would mean a better image display and a faster gaming experience.
For this article, we will use ‘GPU’ and ‘graphics card’ interchangeably.
How to Remove a GPU from the Motherboard
Removing a GPU from the motherboard is so easy. You do not always have to visit your technician to do so. If you can simply follow these steps, your faulty GPU will be out in no time.
1. Remove All Graphics Software/Drivers
Before you remove the graphics card, you should first remove all existing software and drivers connected to the graphics card. This will help avoid any conflict when you are installing another one.
2. Turn Off Your Computer
You should completely power off your computer before opening the case. Also, turn off the power supply.
3. Remove All Cables
Next, you should remove all cables and wires connected to the PC. Remove all audio and video cables and power supply cables, and keep them safe.
4. Remove the PC Case
Here, you want to gently unscrew the PC case and remove it. The PC interior may look jumbled up, dusty, or neat, depending on the last time you opened it up.
If the interior is dirty, you can gently wipe off all the dust or cobwebs you can see. Be careful when removing the PC case so that you do not damage any other thing or touch what you shouldn’t.
5. Discharge All Static Electricity
Even when your PC is off, static electricity can still damage your computer. You need to wear an antistatic wrist strap to discharge all static electricity.
These wrist straps are easy to purchase at local computer shops. They are also quite affordable. To use an antistatic wrist strap, wrap it around your wrist and secure it. The other end of the strap should have a clip or a metal cord that you can attach to a grounded object, such as the metal part of your computer case.
6. Disconnect All Internal Cables Attaching to the Graphics Card to the Motherboard
Locating the graphics card is quite easy. You can find it at the bottom side of the motherboard. Ensure you know what a graphics card looks like before removing the cables.
The graphics card is often connected to the PCIe x16 slot on the motherboard. This connector has 16 slots which is why it has the x16 suffix.
7. Unscrew the Graphics Card from the Case
To keep it secure, the graphics card is mounted in a case. Here, you need a good screwdriver and a pair of strong arms. Unscrew all screws and keep them aside. You’ll need them when you are mounting the graphics card back.
8. Take Out Your Graphics Card
Before you can successfully take out your graphics card, you need to remove the retention clip. It is a small lever that successfully holds the graphics card in place.
Applying a little pressure on the protruding part of the lever will release the graphics card and allow you to slide it out easily.
9. Place the GPU in an Antistatic Bag
Even if the graphics card is faulty, it is not advisable to dispose of it anyhow. Get an antistatic bag and lock it away safely.
Now, it’s clear to see that removing a graphics card is easy. Replacing a graphics card is just as easy as removing it.
You simply have to repeat all the steps in reverse and turn on your computer to test it out. At this point, your PC should be up and working just as new.
Conclusion
Dealing with poor graphics display and slow gaming is not the best thing to experience. A damaged graphics card is often the cause of such hitches.
So, the next time you have a faulty or damaged GPU, do not fret. Simply go through the steps listed above, apply them, and your PC will be up and running in no time.
