Do I need a video card?

[RisingSun]

I just built my first PC using the Gigabyte GA-880GA-UD3H mobo, which I thought would be enough to display pretty good graphics by itself. The resolution is decent, but not great. I don't plan on doing any gaming, just use the Internet and e-mail. I might watch some Blu-Ray movies in the future. The mobo box says it can play 1080p. It has an HDMI output. Should I invest in a graphics card?

 

[voyagerfan99]

If you wanted clearer graphics I'd say so. You don't have to spend much. You could spend $50 and get a decent card since you don't game.

 

[StrangleHold]

All I can think to say, watch a Blu ray. If its acceptable your good to go. If not upgrade to a better video card.

 

[Benny Boy]

That igp will do 1080p and blue ray, and will even game a little.
1) Make sure you have everything connected properly.
2) Make sure you have the latest CCC/driver from AMD/ATI.
3) Check that CCC sees the monitor and go throu the settings in there. ('graphics' drop down menu)
4) Check the bios updates @ Gigabyte to see if there's an update to fix any problems with the igp.

The resolution is decent, but not great.

What monitor do you have?
If you haven't familiarized yourself w/ Catalist Control Center, do so.
Make sure the monitor and ccc settings are correct.

 

[Okedokey]

If you wanted clearer graphics I'd say so. You don't have to spend much. You could spend $50 and get a decent card since you don't game.

What do you mean by 'clearer graphics'? It is digital, therefore its a matter of processing power and resolution, all of which can be covered by the mobo (when gaming isnt needed).

The mobo is fine, don't waste your money.

 

[RisingSun]

I bought a Sapphire HD 5450 card, and the text quality improved significantly. That improvement alone made the video card worth the money.

 

[CardboardSword]

Chances are there is a setting or two that you can change to make your picture look better. Your monitor itself may also be the culprit. If you're only using HD media you won't have any need for a dedicated card. If you really feel like you want to upgrade it, then a 5450 is probably your best bet, but it's very likely that any visual fidelity increase you would notice would be entirely in your head. 1080p through HDMI is 1080p through HDMI, it doesn't matter what the source is.