Upgrading graphics card on pre-built computer

MissingReference · Jul 21, 2013

Hey there,

I'm new to taking apart a computer and have slowly learning my way around.

I purchased this pre-built computer awhile back and would like to upgrade the graphics card: https://www.asus.com/Desktops/CM6870/

I was particularly looking at the GeForce GTX 690 specifically for gaming. I know the computer is lacking in power and need a minimum wattage of 650.

I also know that I should uninstall any previous graphics card drivers before installing the new graphics card.

Is there anything else I should be made aware of before i go ahead and do this?
Will I run into any issues with the motherboard or CPU?
Any recommendations are appreciated!

Cazzleck · Jul 21, 2013

yuo will porbably mot likely need a new mobo, and a new Processor,depending on what you have processor wise, but im not exactly sure but
what proccesor do oyu have?

MissingReference · Jul 21, 2013

Mother board model is CM6870 but I can barely find info on it.

The CPU is an Intel i7-3770 @ 3.4GHz.

Richie Ricardo-1359559 · Jul 21, 2013

I suggest you watch this video series https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPIXAtNGGCw . It helped me a ton when I was first building a computer. They pretty much explain everything. As for GPU, you don't need to go as high as a 690 for gaming. I would suggest a 770 or 780 if your motherboard is compatible.

Cazzleck · Jul 21, 2013

yea i recommend 770 for gaming, you can also run them sli later and itll beat the pants off of a 690 in sli before its overclocked, and will still be cheaper, but since you can barely find info on it, then id recommend a new Mobo also, sue to little info, and also since you bought a prebuilt one,

770 will cost 400 for a 2gb and 460 for a 770 4gb
new decent mobo will run you 120-200

but since you have a i7 3770 your golden on it, just being held back by the graphics for gaming and mobo depending if it has support for the new card, but if you can pullthe card out i dont see why you couldnt plug and play,

MissingReference · Jul 21, 2013

Hm I was hoping to get the top of the line graphics card hoping that it would last me for years to come but 770 sli will run them better than 690 sli(which I'm assuming is multiple graphics cards)?

Also looking at Asus motherboards the socket is 1150. The i7-3770 spec page says something like 1155. Are they compatible or am I looking at too new of motherboards?

Also checking out the Youtube video, thank you!

Cazzleck · Jul 21, 2013

770 sli, will range you about 900,
while the 690 sli will run you upwards of 1800+, and no 690 sli would be better then,
But yes SLI is for two cards youll want a 1155
this is what i am currently using
http://www.amazon.com/Gigabyte-CrossFireX-DispayPort-Motherboard-GA-Z77X-UD3H/dp/B007R21JJK

this is better for pirce compared to the gigabyte in my opinion plus its asus, if you prefer that brand
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131837

770 gtx asus also
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814121770&Tpk=asus%20gtx%20770&IsVirtualParent=1

Richie Ricardo-1359559 · Jul 21, 2013

MissingReference :

I prefer Asrock motherboards over Asus. Check out the Asrock z77 extreme 6 or extreme 4 (the one I have). They're 1155 compatible. 1150 sockets aren't compatible with 1155 chips.

MissingReference · Jul 21, 2013

Gave me a lot to think about. Thank you very much for the help guys!

Last question: It looks like from the gtx 770 spec page it requires 600 Watt minimum system power supply. Any recommendations on what I should get?

Richie Ricardo-1359559 · Jul 21, 2013

MissingReference :

I recommend that its a modular power supply (much better cable management) and that it is 80plus certified. In terms of manufacturer, I recommend Seasonic. Get something like a 650 watt rather than 600 just to be safe.

Cazzleck · Jul 21, 2013

go for something with at least 750w and try to at least get bronze 80 or silver 80 which makes them seem to last longer, i love cooler master myself and i chose Cooler Master - GX ATX12V & EPS12V but its really up to you, but 750w would be the least i think you would want

MissingReference · Jul 21, 2013

Perfect! Thank you!

Major_Trouble · Jul 21, 2013

The computer looks like it can handle a mid/high end card without to much trouble. Just a PSU upgrade to a quality 600W+ needed really. You should make sure you have enough space inside your case for the length of Gfx card you eventually go for. Those 690s are huge.

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