GPU Installation
Introduction
Section titled “Introduction”This chapter installs the Gigabyte Radeon RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 16GB graphics card.
Purpose
Section titled “Purpose”Seat the GPU correctly in the primary PCIe x16 slot, secure it to the case, and connect PCIe power.
Estimated Time
Section titled “Estimated Time”15-25 minutes.
Difficulty
Section titled “Difficulty”Beginner to moderate.
Required Tools
Section titled “Required Tools”- Phillips #2 screwdriver.
- GPU support bracket if supplied or required.
- PCIe 8-pin power cable from the ASUS PSU.
- Flashlight.
Warnings
Section titled “Warnings”- Do not install the GPU in a lower slot unless deliberately troubleshooting.
- Do not force the PCIe connector.
- Do not run the GPU without its PCIe power cable connected.
- Do not use a CPU EPS cable in the GPU power connector.
- Do not lift the system by the graphics card.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Section titled “Step-by-Step Instructions”- Remove the case expansion slot covers aligned with the motherboard primary PCIe x16 slot.
- Press the PCIe slot latch open if it is accessible.
- Hold the GPU by the edges and cooler body.
- Align the GPU with the primary PCIe x16 slot and rear expansion slots.
- Press the GPU straight into the slot until fully seated.
- Secure the GPU bracket to the case with screws.
- Install or adjust the anti-sag support if needed.
- Connect the PCIe 8-pin power cable.
- Route the cable with a gentle curve and no tight bend at the connector.
- Confirm the GPU fans can spin freely.
Verification Checklist
Section titled “Verification Checklist”- GPU is in the primary PCIe x16 slot.
- PCIe slot latch is engaged.
- Rear bracket is screwed into the case.
- PCIe 8-pin power cable is fully seated.
- Cable is not pressing sideways on the connector.
- GPU is level or supported.
- GPU fans are unobstructed.
Common Mistakes
Section titled “Common Mistakes”- Installing the GPU before removing the correct slot covers.
- Partially seating the PCIe edge connector.
- Using the wrong PSU cable.
- Leaving the GPU unsupported if it sags.
- Plugging the monitor into the motherboard display output instead of the GPU.
Expected Result
Section titled “Expected Result”The graphics card is installed, powered, supported, and ready for display output during first boot.
Next Chapter
Section titled “Next Chapter”Continue to Cable Routing.