To ensure compatibility, what is critical when selecting a new video card for a PC?

When selecting a new video card for a PC, the connection interface, such as PCIe, is critical for ensuring compatibility. The connection interface dictates how the video card communicates with the motherboard and other components in the system. If the video card's connection interface does not match the expansion slot available on the motherboard, the card simply cannot be installed.

For example, if a video card uses a PCIe x16 interface but the motherboard only supports PCI or an older version of PCIe, there will be no physical means to connect the two, rendering the video card unusable in that system. Therefore, confirming that both the motherboard and the new video card support the same interface is essential for successful installation and operation.

Other factors, such as form factor, memory size, and brand name, are important considerations as well, but they do not directly affect whether the card can be physically connected to the motherboard. The form factor relates to the card's dimensions and the physical space available in the case, while memory size impacts performance but does not influence compatibility. Brand name may reflect quality or features but does not factor into the fundamental compatibility required for installation.