i have a new computer, its pretty solid but as im noticing with companies, they like to skimp on the graphics card . . . the comp is HP, AMD dual core @ 2.6 ghz each, 3 gigs of ddr2 ram. i play half life 2 alot, and just started episode one and its very slow even with the settings all turned down. i already know im going to need to upgrade the power supply from the 250w to atleast 350 or 400watts. i am wondering what else i need to know in regards to what cards will be compatible, like for example, since my ram is DDR2 does that mean the graphics card has to be DDR2 also? or can i go up to DDR3 with the upgraded power supply? any help on this matter would be appreciated. . . i was looking around the 100 - 150 price range if anyone has any suggestions also. thanks.
2007-08-23 09:57:43 · 2 answers · asked by pleupold7 2 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Add-ons
With your budget, I would recommend the factory overclocked 8600GT. It should run fine with a power supply that has at least 18 amps on the +12V rail. Dual +12V rails would be best.
Do not confuse system RAM on the motherboard w/ video ram on the graphics card. They perform different functions independent of each other so they need not be the same ddr2. Actually ddr3 is best for graphics card (ddr4 is rare and too expensive). 256mb ddr3 beats 512mb ddr2.
2007-08-23 12:41:20 · answer #1 · answered by Karz 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Around that price, you could get a brand new Directx 10 card. Not one of the over the top models like 8800 or HD 2900, but the 8600 256mb or 2400 HD would help. I am guessing that you are currently using a integrated card right now.
2007-08-23 17:10:01 · answer #2 · answered by mister answer 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋