without opening up the tower how can i tell what kind of graphic card i have on my computer?

Question

is there any way that i can update the graphic card

Answer 1

This program will tell you everything you need to know about your graphics card and then some.

http://www.techpowerup.com/downloads/804/TechPowerUp_GPU-Z_v0.0.8.html

If your video card is not installed, then this program will not be of much help.

Another option is going to Control Panel-system-Hardware tab-device manager- expand Display Adapters - that would have info about your card but again - if you got no drivers, that won't be helpful.

The final option: go here
http://www.computerhope.com/issues/ch000258.htm

If that doesn't help - the only option left is the one you don't want to do.

Yes, you're likely able to upgrade it. Although you'll have to describe what kind of hardware you're running - motherboard and video card models that you have will be enough to determine your possible options.

I will update this post if you add some more details about your system.

Answer 2

Yes, All computers are built by different companies, and when they are built they are built off of paper that is called different things by the different companies. I call them a build list. This piece of paper has everything that is used in the building of your computer. It includes size and brand of hard drive, same with Ram and Video Card, or Graphics Cards, Speakers, Modem, Ehternet, all hardware components are listed.
You will have to consult this build sheet to determine what they used. Otherwise, I am sorry to say you may have no choice but to open the tower and see.
I am sure you may be able to contact your manufacture with your serial number, and I know they could tell you, now if you can get them to do it may be another thing.
Don

Answer 3

"without opening up the tower how can i tell what kind of graphic card i have on my computer?"
For Windows XP, go to control panel, display properties, settings - it should tell you the type of monitor and type of graphics card.

"is there any way that i can update the graphic card"
once you've done the steps above, you can go to the website of your graphics chipset maker, (Nvidia, ATI, or other) or the PC maker (if you have an onboard chipset that's not from one of those) and download updated drivers for you to install.

Answer 4

Download Belarc Advisor and run the program . It will give you the name of the manufacturer along with the model type etc...

Then go to the manufacturer's web site and update the driver for your card.