Computer Upgrades
Desktop graphics card upgrade, on site
My desktop struggles with design, video editing or games, and I think the graphics card is holding it back.
My desktop struggles with design, video editing or games, and I think the graphics card is holding it back.
A new graphics card can transform a desktop used for CAD, photo and video work or gaming, but only if the rest of the computer can support it. Modern cards are long, take up two or three slots and draw a lot of power through dedicated connectors. We measure the space in the case, check the slot on the motherboard, confirm the power supply has the capacity and cables needed, and look at whether the processor would simply become the next bottleneck.
What the technician does
- Check the case space, slot, power supply and processor for a new card
- Remove the old card and fit the new one with the right power connections
- Install current drivers and test under a sustained load
Tell us what software or games you run - it decides which card is sensible.
About desktop graphics card upgrade
Once a suitable card is chosen, we remove the old one, clear out any old drivers, fit the new card with proper support so it does not sag, and connect the power cables correctly. Current drivers are installed from the card maker, monitors are set to the right resolution and refresh rate, and the computer is run under a sustained load while we watch temperatures and stability. If anything runs hot, airflow is adjusted before we leave.
What usually causes it
- Design or CAD software has outgrown the original graphics
- Video editing exports and previews are slow
- Newer games will not run or run poorly
- Additional or higher resolution monitors need connecting
Before we arrive
- The make and model of the computer, or a photo of the label underneath or on the back
- What you use it for and what feels slow
- Your Windows sign-in and any software licence details you have
- A rough idea of whether you would rather upgrade or are open to replacing
What a visit looks like
When you book desktop graphics card upgrade, you tell us what's going on and we reply with a time that suits you and a price. Nothing starts until you're happy with both.
On the day, the technician arrives, looks at the problem in person and confirms the plan with you before starting. If something turns out different from what was expected - a part is needed, or the cause is somewhere else - we stop and agree the change with you first.
When the work is done we test it with you, show you what was changed, and leave the area tidy. For business jobs we note what we did, so there is a record for whoever looks after your IT next.
Pricing
From $135 + GST + $30 call-out ($185.25 incl. GST)
| Charge | Price | Incl. GST |
|---|---|---|
| Call-out, per onsite visit | $26.09 + GST | $30 |
| First hour on site | $135 + GST | $155.25 |
| Each half hour after the first hour | $60 + GST | $69 |
| Remote help session (no call-out) | $60 + GST | $69 |
| SuperGold card holders - first hour at home | $116 + GST | $133.40 |
Estimate your visit
$185.25 incl. GST, call-out included
An estimate at our standard rates. Bigger jobs get a free quote before we start.
Every visit includes
- Travel to your site
- Diagnosis on site
- Fix tested with you
- Plain-English explanation
- Notes for business jobs
- Tidy finish
Desktop graphics card upgrade is charged at our standard rates: a $30 call-out, the first hour, then half-hour blocks. We never charge by the minute or in 15-minute steps, and there are no hidden extras.
Larger jobs - a new network, a run of cabling, a server or a camera system - get a free quote before any work starts, so you know the cost up front. Parts and equipment are quoted and agreed before we order them.
There is no contract, no monthly fee and no membership. You book the job you need and pay for that job.
Desktop graphics card upgrade: questions
Will a new graphics card fit my computer?
Many will not fit compact office desktops, which have small cases and limited power. We check your exact model before anything is ordered, and if a card will not fit we explain the options honestly.
Do I need a new power supply as well?
Often. Powerful cards need more capacity and specific connectors that older power supplies lack. We check the power supply label and suggest a matching replacement if needed.
Do you do desktop graphics card upgrade on site?
Yes. We come to businesses and homes across Auckland and Hamilton and do the work where the equipment is.
How much does desktop graphics card upgrade cost?
It depends on what's involved. Tell us about the job on the form and we'll confirm the price before any work starts.