What to consider when getting a new vid. card?

M

mglwd40

New Member
Hello. I am currently considering purchasing a new video card that will be used mostly for gaming, but I am a completely clueless when it comes to computer hardware and don't really know how to choose one. I am not sure how to determine if a card is compatible with my computer, or what sort of specs I should really be looking for. I dont really care about having an extremely awesome card that runs every game in the world on max settings, but I would like something that can play most games out today with somewhat decent fps at low settings. My current computer specs are listed below. Any help provided is much appreciated, and if I need to provide any additional information please let me know! Thanks!


Operating System: Windows 7 Home Premium 32-bit (6.1, Build 7600)
Language: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Compaq-Presario
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) Dual CPU E2140 @ 1.60GHz (2 CPUs), ~1.6GHz
Memory: 2048MB RAM
Available OS Memory: 2040MB RAM
Page File: 2242MB used, 3796MB available
DirectX Version: DirectX 11
User DPI Setting: Using System DPI
System DPI Setting: 96 DPI (100 percent)
DWM DPI Scaling: Disabled
Card name: Intel(R) 82945G Express Chipset Family
Manufacturer: Intel Corporation
Chip type: Intel(R) 82945G Express Chipset Family
DAC type: Internal
Display Memory: 256 MB
Dedicated Memory: 0 MB
Shared Memory: 256 MB
Current Mode: 1440 x 900 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor Name: Compaq WF1907 Wide LCD Monitor
Monitor Model: Compaq WF1907
Native Mode: 1440 x 900(p) (59.887Hz)
 
A bit more information is probably needed:

1) How much do you plan to spend? (Always good to set a budget otherwise it's easy to spend too much ;))

2) I see it's a Compaq. Are you able to link to the detailed computer specs online? (Assuming it's available to buy online, that is)

3) Does your motherboard have an empty PCI-express slot? (You'll need to open up your case to check)
 
you are most likely going to need to get a new psu as well. what is your budget? try and find some info on your motherboard (mainly the model number). i am curious to see what it means when it lists directx 11 as your directx version...
 
yeah you'll definitely need a new psu. but any new card should work with that board. for $60 max, you aren't going to get anything that could even play newer games at lower settings. the psu is going to take a good chunk out of that.
 
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