Graphics card for computer

J

jman2k7live

New Member
Hi there, well let me tell you that I have a dell dimension 3000 desktop and my specs are:

Pentium 4 HT 3.00 GHz
1024mb of DDR (PC 3200) RAM
145 GB Hard drive
integrated graphics card (intel extreme 2)
only 250 watt power supply (looking for a stronger one)

This computer ONLY has a PCI slot ( not PCIe or AGP slot) and was looking to upgrade my graphics card. I was looking at the Radeon 2400 pro (PCI) from Microcenter (I know its not the best for games but it will be an improvement). I want to know what you guys think of it and if it is compatible with the computer. Also I want to know if you have any suggestions on what graphics card to get THANKS!!!!
 
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Just keep in mind, when adding a new video card to an old stock computer like that, you are usually in for more than you expect. You may need a new PSU, but for that small of a card I doubt it. But the GPU gives off tons of heat and you will probably need to invest in a case fan or a slot fan. When I first got my 8600GT, I had a 250W PSU running 14A on the 12V rail. My PSU would overheat from the overloard, PSU had a crappy 80mm fan, and my GPU would get hot from lack of ventilation. I had to play with the case open and a desk fan blowing in. One time I forgot and the card hit 84C. Got a 500W PSU with a 120mm fan and 2 case fans and it never breaks 65C. Now of course the 8600GT is a different story but you kinda get what I mean.
 
kookooshortman55 said:
Just keep in mind, when adding a new video card to an old stock computer like that, you are usually in for more than you expect. You may need a new PSU, but for that small of a card I doubt it. But the GPU gives off tons of heat and you will probably need to invest in a case fan or a slot fan. When I first got my 8600GT, I had a 250W PSU running 14A on the 12V rail. My PSU would overheat from the overloard, PSU had a crappy 80mm fan, and my GPU would get hot from lack of ventilation. I had to play with the case open and a desk fan blowing in. One time I forgot and the card hit 84C. Got a 500W PSU with a 120mm fan and 2 case fans and it never breaks 65C. Now of course the 8600GT is a different story but you kinda get what I mean.
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Thanks a lot I will keep that in mind, ( I will try to add another fan to my computer) Thanks again
 
Look in the X1550 and x1300, both solid options.

I run the x1550 (pci) on a generic 300w psu and its fine.
 
Buying a card is ok, but I wouldn't pour all kinds of money in to an older computer like this with fans, cases, PSU's, etc.
 
tknick90 said:
Buying a card is ok, but I wouldn't pour all kinds of money in to an older computer like this with fans, cases, PSU's, etc.
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The Only Reason I am upgrading this old computer is because I just bought a new laptop and since I live in an apartment with my dad we dont have 2 much room ( we already have like 4 desktops and 3 laptops). My dad is not allowing me to buy a new computer (even if I pay for IT donno why). But thanks anyway

Yeah I dont want to spend over 450 dollars on all the stuff (graphics card, fans, Power supply, etc.)
 
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