[Zipp080]

Today when I took out my video card I noticed one of the tall cylinders on the card ( dunno what they are called), was really lose and about to fall off, so I nudged it a bit and it came right off. Well my computer started up with out it, and I am currently installing windows XP because, it is a new system (but old card, ti4200), anyways, was that piece important?

The piece is silver and has 3 numbers on the top

2D
330
6V

 

[n2gun]

I would replace the card soon. From the description, it sounds like a capacitor. It can cause major problems including burning out other parts.

 

[zeddy]

As previously posted losing a capacitor means that elements of the card are not getting the correct ampage and the card is likely to fail.

 

[Lurker1]

Of course if you are good with a soldering iron you can buy a replacement at Radio Shack or any electronics store and replace it yourself.

 

[cnclathrop]

is it a pny ti 4200 they had lots of problems with the cards burning out got mine replaced for free ( minus shipping and haddling)