An external video card for a laptop is an external GPU, an external discrete GPU, or an external discrete video card, abbreviated as eGPU.

The product of discrete external cards for laptops, abbreviated as eGPU, was born in recent years. But not everybody is aware of how to use it.

In this guide, you will learn about how to attaching an external graphics card your computer including:

1. Working principle of external graphics card for your computer
2. Instructions on how to attach an external graphics card to a laptop 
3. Compatibility of external graphics cards for laptops
4. Cooling system when using the external graphics card for laptop
5. Notes when attaching an external video card to a laptop

1. What is Working principle of external graphics card for your computer?

The principle of operation is straightforward: Plug in the machine, install the driver, and restart the computer.

After rebooting and setting up, the laptop will automatically switch the graphics configuration to eGPU instead of the default GPU in the machine.

2. How to attach an external graphics card to your device

Attaching an eGPU to a laptop is simple, including five basic steps: (applies to mPCIe connection ports). After buying a discrete video card and power + leads.

Step 1:

Uninstall the old graphics program (if any)

Step 2:

Disconnect the power on the laptop. Then remove the case cover.

Step 3:

Insert the new graphics card into the mPCIe slot, push it (or turn the screw). If you notice a “click,” it means the card has been inserted into the slot.

Step 4:

Secure the eGPU and then reinstall the case. Proceed to reboot the machine and set the configuration. You must cut the cover if the laptop does not have a place to conduct the wire.

Step 5:

Install the driver of the discrete video card, and you’re done. Driver, you go to the website of the downloader.

3. The Compatibility of external graphics cards for laptops

The external graphics card must be compatible with the laptop for the machine to work smoothly. We need to check the laptop power supply first (how many sockets are these for).

Then check the voltage of the power supply and eGPU to see if it matches. In addition, the indicators on the eGPU are also the basis for checking whether your laptop meets those indicators.

If your work often requires high graphic design or you like to play games with a “terrible” configuration, you can choose an external video card for a slightly powerful laptop.

Choosing the right GPU for your computer is the first thing to consider. Today, the performance indicators of the graphics card (processor, bandwidth, speed) are fully recorded on the model number.

The model number includes the brand name + the discrete graphics card number (a different number that the manufacturer sets for the discrete graphics card to distinguish the lines). For example, GeForce GTX 1080 GAMING Z 8G…

The most crucial step is selecting a compatible connection cable; to be sure, bring your laptop to a location that sells GPUs.

4. Cooling system when using the external graphics card for the laptop

Some external graphics cards for laptops emit a large amount of heat when operating. Therefore, paying attention to the cooling system is necessary if you intend to install an eGPU.

There are currently two cooling systems for eGPUs:

eGPU external ventilation fans and eGPU internal integrated cooling systems.

• eGPU external ventilation fan: 

The advantage of the eGPU series with an external exhaust fan is its relatively low cost. The downside is that it makes noise and is quite dangerous.

• Built-in cooling system inside eGPU: 

The advantage is noiseless and user-friendly. The downside is the high price.

5. Here are things to Notes when attaching an external video card to a laptop:

Non-genuine external card for laptop

Similar to “leveling” a laptop, adding an external graphics card requires you to locate all the necessary parts. If you encounter an error, you will have to solve it yourself without official support from the laptop manufacturer.

In some cases, after attaching the eGPU, it feels cumbersome and not convenient for the job as envisioned. Therefore, it should be carefully considered so as not to lose money and time.

Choose an external card for genuine laptops

Find the correct type of compatible wired eGPU.

After considering the convenience, cost, and risk, if not satisfied, a compact, ultra-durable laptop is a suggestion worth considering.

How to attach a genuine external graphics card to a laptop include:

If you buy a genuine eGPU, it is straightforward without having to remove the case.

Step 1:

Plug compatible ports and wires from the eGPU to the laptop.

(The best “genuine” connection port today is Thunderbolt 3.0)

Step 2:

Go to the homepage to download and install the driver; that’s it.

Final Thoughts

Above is a guide on how to attach an external graphics card to a laptop; hopefully, you will get the most valuable knowledge to be able to attach an eGPU to your laptop yourself.

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What criteria should eGPU Be selected For windows? (Explained)