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Build Your Own PC - Step 7: Installing Adapters, Nvidia GeForce PCI Express

The Nvidia GeForce 6800 PCI Express 16X video adapter has an onboard programmable graphics processor and is equipped with a large heatsink and cooling fan. In order to ensure that the adapter gets sufficient power, it requires a direct connection to the power supply. The video adapter was shipped with a custom power adapter, which in turn is connected to a standard 1x4 power supply lead, just like our SATA power adapter in Figure 47.

Figure 48: Attaching the custom power adapter to the video adapter

Attaching the additional power connector to the video card

The PCI Express 16X adapter is installed in the sole matching slot on the motherboard. There is a locking mechanism to help keep the adapter seated in the slot, though it's not the full lock that's commonly used on AGP slots. The little black locking tab is being pushed out by the finger to the lower right of the mermaid, while the adapter is seated in the slot with even pressure from both hands.

Figure 49: Installing the Nvidia GeForce PCI Express video adapter

Installing the GeForce video adapter in the PCI Express slot

Make sure the video ports are all fully exposed through the rear of the case, and secure it in place with a screw. This model of the Nvidia GeForce adapter sports two digital video monitor connectors (DVI) and an S-video port, but not a single standard VGA port. A simple DVI to VGA adapter allows you to run a monitor with an analog connector, including most older LCDs, on this video card. Large plasma displays and newer LCDs are generally equipped with DVI connectors, or both types.

Figure 50: Securing the video adapter

Screwing in the video adapter

We installed a V.92 modem in the bottom PCI slot, as far as possible from the video adapter, which needs room for the cooling fan to be effective. The modem is seated in the slot with even pressure on both ends, which is made easy thanks to the opening in the back of the case above the adapter mounting area.

Figure 51: Installing a V.92 PCI Voice Modem

Installing and old 56K modem for rural use

The "line" and "phone" ports on the modem take up nearly the whole width of the slot opening, so it's important to make sure the full port is exposed before securing the adapter with a screw. While it's easy to get a phone jack into a port even if it's a little off center, it's impossible to get it out again without straightening the modem.

Figure 52: Securing the modem

Screwing in the modem hold-down screw

The final step to installing the adapters is to replace the plastic slots cover. It hinges on the right side and snaps into place on the left, where the release latch extends into the case. You can see the raised lettering of the "Hardware" compartment, a handy place to store any leftover screw when the build is complete.

Figure 53: Reinstalling the adapter slots cover

Reinstalling the Antec adapter cover

Proceed to Step 8: Finishing the hard drive array

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