When is the perfect time to install the video card?

[cheese321]

I am about to start my first build. Do you guys I should install my video card on the mobo before I install the mobo onto the case or should I install it after the mobo is also screwed onto the case? If I were to install it while the mobo is still outside the case, would it block the screw holes when I eventually do install the mobo onto the case?

Also if someone can just me a rundown by personal experience which components to install while mobo is still outside the case and then which parts/wires/connectors to install when the mobo is in the case. Thanks in advance.

[Lespaul20]

I would leave all your expansion cards out untill you have the motherboard in. I would just install the CPU, HSF, and memory before. Take a look at the BYOPC forum and look at the stickies.

[ski]

Install the CPU and its heatsink with the MB sitting on a piece of cardboard outside the case. Normally it takes some pressure to properly secure the heatsink to the MB, and the MB should be properly supported to prevent damage.
Everything else should be installed/connected with the MB securely installed in the case. Installing cards, RAM, etc., before installing the MB in the case can cause possible contact and damage to these components while installing the MB's hold down screws.
(NOTE: To make sure the MB is fully supported when installed in the case, you can install plastic insert standoffs in the MB holes that do not line up with any threaded metal standoff posts.)

[freakitchen]

It depends on whether you're planning on doing the out-of-case boot before anything goes into the case. I've been doing this ever since I saw the instructions, and I don't doubt that it's saved me LOTS of troubleshooting time over the years. If you decide to do this, then you'll need to install the video card when the board is out of the case - but you'll have to remove it before anything goes into the case. Only the processor, the heatsink, and the RAM should be installed before putting the board into the case.