Hardware Reference Guide

7. Locate the correct vacant expansion socket on the system board and the corresponding expansion slot
on the back of the computer chassis.
8. Before installing an expansion card, remove the expansion slot cover or the existing expansion card.
NOTE: Before removing an installed expansion card, disconnect any cables that may be attached to
the expansion card.
a. If you are installing an expansion card in a vacant socket, you must slide one of the expansion slot
covers up and out of the chassis or use a at-bladed screwdriver to pry out one of the metal
shields on the rear panel that covers the expansion slot. Be sure to remove the appropriate shield
for the expansion card you are installing.
b. If you are removing a PCI Express x1 card, hold the card at each end and carefully rock it back and
forth until the connectors pull free from the socket. Lift the card straight up (1) then away from the
inside of the chassis (2) to remove it. Be sure not to scrape the card against other components.
18 Chapter 2 Hardware upgrades