The video or graphics card is an integral part of any computer. It is the hardware responsible for translating data produced by a processor into images and video. It is also the hardware that will serve as a medium between a computer and a monitor or display. Obviously, without a video card, it will be quite impossible to use a computer. And, without the proper video card software driver installed, the video card will not be able to function properly.
* Normally, the native driver included as you purchase and install a new video card will do fine initially. However, at a certain point in time, the driver running the hardware will have to be upgraded and updated in order to keep up with the newer software, video formats, and games.
* Upgrading the software driver for a video card, whether it is a separate card or integrated on the motherboard is not that difficult to accomplish. All you will really need is a blow by blow on how to do it and a decent Internet connection.
* Determine the video card model. Before anything else, you will need to know the model and brand of the video card you have. If the video card is a separate card installed on a PCI Express or AGP slot, then you can find out the brand and model of the card by looking at the card itself, inspecting that packaging that came with, or by perusing the user’s manual. If the video card, on the other hand, is built into the motherboard (known as an onboard video card), then you will have to find out the model and brand of the motherboard. You can see this on the board itself. You may also check the box or manual that came with the board as well.
* Search for the latest video card driver. As soon as you have determined the model and brand of your video card, the next step will be to surf the Internet to find the latest driver available. The best place to look for the latest driver is on the manufacturer’s website. Typically, there are only 3 real manufacturers (ATI, NVidia, and Intel) to check out depending on who made your video card. Visit the associated website and search for the specific model on the site. You should arrive on the product page of the particular video card model. Find the download page there and the latest driver for that hardware should be displayed and available for download. Click on the link provided to download the installation file of the new driver.
* In the case that you are using an old and obsolete video card, the manufacturer may not support it anymore. So, the latest driver may not be available on the website. If that is the case, search Google for any site still carrying the driver.
Once you complete the driver download, double-click it and it should pop up the installation wizard. From there, you can follow the steps displayed until the installation initializes and completes. At this point, it is possible for your screen to flicker for a few seconds. It is normal. To complete the installation, you need to reboot of your PC.
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