What PCI cards can I use?

[Jon13926]

The computer is old. It has 3 PCI slots. I got it for free, and I was told that it simply wouldn't run. I was going to replace (UPDATE) some of the parts, including the video card(s), but I'm new to this and I'm not sure if I can use ANY PCI video card or if I have to watch what I plug in.

If you need the CPU specs, let me know and I'll find them.

 

[johnb35]

What brand and model of computer is it? I wouldn't recommend updating this computer if its that old. It just wouldn't be worth it in my opinion.

 

[Jon13926]

The computer was built to begin with. Various parts. The board must be old. It only have PCI ports, it has IDE ports, and it has a floppy drive port. Maybe it's not worth rebuilding, and maybe I wont do it.

For the record, though, what do you have to focus on when you buy a new video card? Other than socket.

 

[johnb35]

It seems you are limited to a pci video card and these days, you don't have much to choose from, basically low end cards.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=100007709 600007853&IsNodeId=1&name=PCI

For the most part are more expensive then their AGP or PCI express counterparts. If you won't be doing any gaming then you can use the low end cards.

 

[ecyor07]

I got it for free, and I was told that it simply wouldn't run.

I think you should not invest on this computer anymore... Better save some money and buy a decent one.