EVGA GeForce 9500 GT Graphics Card User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your EVGA GeForce 9500 GT 1024 MB DDR2 PCI Express Graphics Card. Please read this manual thoroughly before proceeding with installation to ensure proper setup and optimal performance.

The EVGA GeForce 9500 GT is designed to enhance your computer's visual performance, offering dedicated graphics processing for applications, games, and multimedia. It features 1GB of DDR2 memory, a 128-bit memory interface, and supports PCI Express 2.0.

Figure 1.1: Top view of the EVGA GeForce 9500 GT Graphics Card, showing the cooling fan and heatsink assembly.

2. Safety Information

Observe the following safety precautions during installation and operation:

• Always disconnect the computer from the power outlet before opening the case or installing any components.
• Wear an anti-static wrist strap or frequently touch a grounded metal object (like the computer chassis) to discharge static electricity, which can damage electronic components.
• Handle the graphics card by its edges, avoiding contact with the gold-plated PCI Express connector or other sensitive components.
• Ensure proper ventilation within your computer case to prevent overheating.
• Keep the graphics card away from liquids and extreme temperatures.

3. Package Contents

Verify that your package contains the following items:

• EVGA GeForce 9500 GT Graphics Card (Model: 01G-P3-N959-TR)
• Driver CD (may vary by region/retailer)
• Quick Installation Guide (this document serves as a comprehensive guide)

4. Setup

4.1 System Requirements

• PCI Express x16 slot on the motherboard.
• Minimum 350W power supply (with a minimum 18A on the +12V rail recommended).
• Compatible operating system (e.g., Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10).
• CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive for driver installation (or internet access for download).

4.2 Hardware Installation

1. Power Off and Disconnect: Turn off your computer and unplug the power cord from the wall outlet. Disconnect all cables from the back of the computer.
2. Open Computer Case: Remove the side panel of your computer case to access the motherboard.
3. Locate PCI Express Slot: Identify an available PCI Express x16 slot on your motherboard. This is typically the longest slot.
4. Remove Slot Cover: Remove the metal slot cover corresponding to the chosen PCI Express slot from the back of your computer case.
5. Insert Graphics Card: Carefully align the graphics card with the PCI Express x16 slot. Apply even, firm pressure to both ends of the card until it is fully seated in the slot. You should hear a click if the slot has a locking mechanism.
6. Secure the Card: Secure the graphics card to the computer case using the screw or retention clip from the removed slot cover.
7. Close Case and Reconnect: Replace the computer's side panel and reconnect all cables, including the power cord, monitor cable, and any peripherals.

Figure 4.1: Rear view of the EVGA GeForce 9500 GT, showing the dual DVI-I ports and the TV-out connector, which are used for connecting displays.

4.3 Driver Installation

1. Power On: Turn on your computer. The operating system may detect new hardware and attempt to install generic drivers.
2. Install Drivers:
   • From CD: Insert the EVGA driver CD into your optical drive and follow the on-screen instructions.
   • From Web: If no CD is available or for the latest drivers, visit the official NVIDIA driver download page (www.nvidia.com/drivers). Select your product type (GeForce), product series (GeForce 9 Series), and product (GeForce 9500 GT), then download and run the installer.
3. Restart Computer: After the driver installation is complete, restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

5. Operating

5.1 Connecting Displays

The EVGA GeForce 9500 GT features dual DVI-I ports and a TV-out (HDTV ready) connector. Use appropriate cables to connect your monitor(s) or television.

• DVI: Connect DVI-compatible monitors directly to the DVI ports. DVI-to-VGA adapters can be used for older VGA monitors.
• TV-out: Use the TV-out port for connecting to a television, typically via an S-Video or component video cable (adapter may be required).

5.2 Configuring Display Settings

Once drivers are installed, you can configure display settings through the NVIDIA Control Panel (usually accessible by right-clicking on the desktop) or your operating system's display settings.

• Resolution: Set your preferred screen resolution. The card supports a maximum digital resolution of 2560 x 1600.
• Multi-Monitor Setup: The NVIDIA Control Panel allows you to extend your desktop across multiple monitors or duplicate your display.

5.3 SLI Configuration

The EVGA GeForce 9500 GT is SLI Ready, meaning two identical cards can be linked together with an SLI bridge (sold separately) to work in parallel for increased graphics performance. Refer to NVIDIA's official documentation for detailed SLI setup instructions.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Cleaning

Regular cleaning helps maintain optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your graphics card.

• Dust Removal: Periodically (e.g., every 3-6 months), power off and unplug your computer. Open the case and use compressed air to gently blow dust from the graphics card's fan and heatsink fins. Hold the fan blades to prevent them from spinning too fast during cleaning.
• Avoid Liquids: Do not use liquid cleaners directly on the graphics card.

6.2 Driver Updates

Keep your graphics drivers updated to ensure compatibility with new software, improve performance, and address potential bugs. Check the NVIDIA website regularly for the latest driver releases.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your graphics card, refer to the following troubleshooting steps:

• No Display on Monitor:
  • Ensure the monitor cable is securely connected to both the graphics card and the monitor.
  • Verify the monitor is powered on and set to the correct input source.
  • Power off the computer, open the case, and reseat the graphics card firmly in its PCI Express slot.
  • Test with a different monitor or cable if possible.
• Driver Installation Issues:
  • Ensure you have downloaded the correct drivers for your operating system and graphics card model from the NVIDIA website.
  • Uninstall any previous graphics drivers before attempting a new installation. Use a driver cleaner utility if necessary.
  • Temporarily disable antivirus software during driver installation.
• Poor Performance or Artifacts:
  • Check for overheating. Ensure the graphics card fan is spinning and the heatsink is free of dust.
  • Update your graphics drivers to the latest version.
  • Verify your system meets the minimum requirements for the applications or games you are running.
• System Instability or Crashes:
  • Ensure your power supply unit (PSU) meets the recommended wattage and amperage for the graphics card.
  • Check for conflicts with other hardware or software.
  • Run system diagnostics to check for memory or CPU issues.

8. Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the EVGA GeForce 9500 GT (Model: 01G-P3-N959-TR):

Figure 8.1: Close-up of the product label on the EVGA GeForce 9500 GT, showing the model number (P/N: 01G-P3-N959-TR) and memory configuration (1GB DDR2).

9. Warranty Information

Please note that this product is identified as a used item. As such, it is sold 'as is' and typically does not come with a manufacturer's warranty. Any warranty coverage would be subject to the terms provided by the specific seller at the time of purchase. It is recommended to review the seller's return and warranty policy for used items.

10. Support

For further assistance or technical support, please visit the official EVGA support website:

www.evga.com/support/

When contacting support, please have your product model number (01G-P3-N959-TR) readily available.

You can also refer to the product page for additional details: EVGA GeForce 9500 GT on Amazon