How to Unscrew and Reseat Expansion Cards

Open the Computer Case

Expansion cards plug directly into the motherboard, so they are always located inside the computer case. Before you can reseat an expansion card, you must open the case so you can access the card.

Most computers come in either tower-sized models or desktop-sized models. Tower cases usually have screws that secure removable panels on either side of the case but will sometimes feature release buttons instead of screws. Desktop cases usually feature easy-release buttons that allow you to open the case but some will feature screws similar to tower cases.

For screwless cases, look for buttons or levers on the sides or rear of the computer that are used to release the case. If you're still having difficulties, you can reference your computer or case manual to determine the specific procedure.

Remove External Cables or Attachments

Before you can remove an expansion card from your computer, you have to make sure that everything connected to the card from the outside of the computer is removed. This is usually a good step to complete when opening the case, but if you haven't done so yet, now is the time.

For example, if you're reseating a network interface card, make sure the network cable is removed from the card before proceeding. If you're reseating a sound card, make sure the speaker connection is unplugged.

If you try to remove an expansion card without disconnecting everything attached to it, you'll quickly realize that you forgot this step!

Remove the Retaining Screw

All expansion cards are secured to the case in some way to prevent the card from coming loose. Most of the time this is accomplished with a retaining screw.

Remove the retaining screw and set it aside. You will need this screw again when you reinsert the expansion card.

Carefully Grip and Remove the Expansion Card

With the retaining screw removed, the only step left to completely remove the expansion card from the computer is to pull the card from the expansion slot on the motherboard.

With both hands, firmly grip the top of the expansion card, being careful not to touch any of the sensitive electronic parts on the card itself. Also, make sure that all wires and cables are clear of where you are working. You don't want to damage something while trying to troubleshoot a problem you're already having.

Pull up a little, one side of the card at a time, slowly working the card out of the slot. Most expansion cards will fit snugly in the motherboard slot, so don't attempt to yank the card out in one brute pull. You'll likely damage the card and possibly the motherboard if you're not careful.

Inspect the Expansion Card and Slot

With the expansion card now removed, inspect the slot on the motherboard for anything inconsistent like dirt, obvious damage, etc. It should be clean and free of any obstructions.

Also, inspect the metal contacts on the bottom of the expansion card. The contacts should be clean and shiny. If not, you may need to clean the contacts.​

Reinsert the Expansion Card

It's now time to reinsert the expansion card back into the expansion slot on the motherboard.

First, move all wires and cables out of your way and away from the motherboard's expansion slot. There are small wires inside a computer that can easily be cut if they come between the card and the slot.

Carefully align the expansion card with the slot on the motherboard and with the side of the case. It may take a little maneuvering on your part, but you need to make sure that when you push the card into the expansion slot, it will fit properly in the slot and against the side of the case.

Once you've properly aligned the expansion card, push down firmly on both sides of the card with both hands. You should feel a little resistance as the card goes in the slot, but it should not be difficult. If the expansion card does not go in with a firm push, you may not have aligned the card properly with the expansion slot.

Secure the Expansion Card to the Case

Locate the screw that you set aside in Step 3. Use this screw to secure the expansion card to the case.

Take care not to drop the screw into the case, onto the motherboard, or other parts inside the computer. Besides causing damage to sensitive parts on impact, leaving a screw inside a computer can cause electrical shorting, which can lead to all kinds of serious problems.