Build Eval/Random Questions

K

KFXFelix

New Member
Recently, I found myself the owner of a new computer. It was not built by me, so I've been trying to piece the components together and determine what needs upgrading first.

CPU: Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 Kentsfield @2.40 GHz, Socket 775 LGA

Mobo: Intel G33TL, chipset P35/G33/G31

RAM: 4GB Dual Channel DDR2

GPU: Integrated with the mobo, GMA 3100

250 GB space

...and that's all I know. Can't figure out how to find what wattage the PSU is (came in an Antec case, pretty sure the PSU is branded Antec). This would most likely be used for gaming, so the first thing that would have to be replaced is the video card, which brings me to my next question: Is it possible to put in a second video card to take over what the integrated GPU is doing, or am I going to need to replace the mobo?

If that's the case, I can probably just replace the mobo to support DDR3/Crossfire/DirectX11, but I'd rather not gut a free computer.

This is the monitor I was thinking about getting: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...236051&cm_re=asus_21.5-_-24-236-051-_-Product

Any thoughts/ideas/more information you need from me? Thanks in advance!
 
I'd drop in a video card first if you're going to use it for gaming, but, depending on the power of the card, you may not have enough PSU. You can't find a specs sticker on the PSU?
 
Sorry it took me so long to reply, been a busy week. The only thing I was able to tell from looking at the PSU is that it's Antec. I don't know if there would be a spec sticker on a side that I can't see, I'm a little anxious to start pulling things apart in there.

However, should the PSU be up to snuff/replaced, would a new GPU be able to take over the work the integrated GPU is currently doing?
 
There should be a spec sticker on the PSU somewhere and that's information you really need before installing a GPU.

Yes, there should be an option in the BIOS to Enable/Disable the onboard video so that you could use a discrete GPU.
 
After poking around the inside of my computer a little further, I found where the sticker that displays the specs of the PSU. Unfortunately, I can't actually see the part that tells me what the wattage is. Kind of looking like my only option is to disconnect everything from the PSU, take it out, look at it, and put it back in. How feasible is this?
 
It's pretty easy. May take a bit longer if any cable management has been done, but other than that, everything only fits in one spot. :good:
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top