Upgrade Advice on Dell Studio XPS-7100

Toggle sidebar Toggle sidebar
E

emeraldstorm

Honorable
Nov 5, 2013
6
0
10,510
Howdy.


70% of the time, I use my computer for internet, accounting software, word processing, and the like. I watch movies on it, etc. It works fine for all of that.

My motivation to upgrade right now is so it runs the games I currrently play better. I play Civ V, Europa Universalis IV, the Total Wars series, and Team Fortress. I play them all on the lowest settings.

I’m ready to upgrade the RAM to 8GB, and not sure if it’s possible or smart to upgrade the processor on it. I’m assuming not, so I guess my main focus is on whether I can get a significant performance increase with a video card upgrade that fits my system.


Unless there is some reason to wait, then I’m ready to order it as soon as I figure out what to get. Budget is flexible but I don’t think I want to pay much more beyond $150 for the video card unless it can be transferred to a new system whenever I replace it in a year or two.


It has to run two monitors, and would be great if it ran 3. Not an expert on hardware, etc. If it’s really easy, then I can do it. I understand I may need to upgrade the power supply and, if that’s not too difficult, then I’m all for it.


--
Dell Studio XPS-7100
RAM: 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) (2 free slots that I intend to add another 4GB to (2x2GB)
Graphics Card: AMD Radeon HD 5450
Monitor: AOC 2752 - 1920x1080, DELL 1800FP
Processor: 3.00 gigahertz AMD Phenom II X4 945
Mother Board: Dell Inc. 0NWWY0 A00, Bus Clock: 200 megahertz
Power Supply: 460W

Please let me know what other information you need. Thank you!
 
Solution
coozie7
Looks like you're running a fair few programs at once, so go ahead and add the extra memory, you might be surprised how it can smooth things out with multiple open programs. Two options here: Either get 2x2Gb modules of the same speed as those installed or go for 2x4Gb modules to replace those already installed. Either is good and don't worry about mixing makers, most motherboards are quite tolerant of mixed memory.
With a HD7850 the power supply will be just fine, don't bother disconnecting bits-a DVD drive only uses a few Watts anyway, even when working.
Not sure about your system but most motherboards have decent enough sound chips built in-certainly good enough for most gaming- check the documentation but I think you'll find...
Sort by date Sort by votes
coozie7

coozie7

Champion
Jun 2, 2007
10,015
10
59,215
Please complete the third paragraph.
Please also tell us how much of your money you'd like us to spend for you. ;)
Open up the system and see how many (if any) PCI-E leads the PSU has. Dell units are usually very good quality BTW so, depending on requirements (including budget) an upgraded unit may not be needed.
Good choice for 'less intensive' gaming would be a HD7750/GTX650. Neither requires an external power lead to function (some GTX 650s do but it's not a problem) and will run happily off the existing PSU. A GTX 650 that DOES need an external power lead will run using the molex/PCI-E 'Y' converter that will be supplied with the card.
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
E

emeraldstorm

Honorable
Nov 5, 2013
6
0
10,510
Thanks for reply. I finished the third paragraph.. ".. my main focus is on whether I can get a significant performance increase with a video card upgrade that fits my system."


I could spend about $150 on the video card, but it's whatever you think makes sense given my system.

I don't know what PCI-E leads are. I saw that it is a Delta DPS-460DB-4A PSU though. http://


Can/should I upgrade my processor? And I'm assuming that 8GB RAM is more than enough, but I could get 12 if not. You mentioned low-intensity gaming, which is indeed usually what I do. But...

I would like to be able to play some of the better First Person Shooters like Modern Warfare, Call of Duty, and whatever else people are playing these days. I haven't played them because they've been too choppy and slow for me to do well at. This is a very low priority, but if it can be done with my current system then I’d like that.

I would be happy with a significant performance increase for <$200 though.
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
coozie7

coozie7

Champion
Jun 2, 2007
10,015
10
59,215
The PCI-E slot itself can provide 75Watts through its power connections, if the card needs more it will require 1 or 2 extra power leads from the PSU-faster the card, the more power it needs.
Good news is that the current PSU should be up to your needs and has dual 6 pin PCI-E leads (the yellow and black lines) bottom photo: http://www.amazon.com/Genuine-Dell-Systems-Compatible-Numbers/dp/B009F09ASY
Bad news is that upgrading the CPU is not really an option, the next step up is a fairly small one and the current CPU is a 'old' one so the only way to upgrade to a more modern processor will be to change the motherboard, which may not be possible within the Dell case. Sorry, but without a lot of changes you've run into a wall here. :(
Extra memory is an option, personally I'd say that in your case, 8Gb is not required-but keep it in mind. Also consider the Operating System, if your OS is 32 bit (the info is in the Control Panel under 'System' exactly where depends on the OS) then the system already has as much memory as it can use.
Have a look here: http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/gaming-graphics-card-review,review-32803-7.html Handy and concise.
Top choices: HD7850 or GTX650 Ti Boost, massive upgrade and capable cards, you should easily find one within budget. Suggest you look for the 2Gb versions.
If the system was anything other than a Dell I'd be concerned that the 450Watt PSU is below minimum requirements, but those requirements are set out to cover the mass of poor quality power supplies out there, something your system does not have, as I said earlier Dell PSUs are good quality.
Get a tape measure out and check the card you have in mind will fit the case-obvious I know, but you'd be surprised.
Gold standard for warranty and service is EVGA, XFX also has a superb warranty but their service is not as good (allegedly).
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
E

emeraldstorm

Honorable
Nov 5, 2013
6
0
10,510
Thank you for the explanations and suggestions. My OS is actually 64 bit. The only reason I thought of going to 8 is because when I looked at the memory in windows it had all 4 gigs being used. This was with Europa Universalis open on one monitor, and multiple web sites open on the other monitor.

I didn't realize the newer video cards would even work with my computer. If the 460 PSU is good enough for the 500W requirement on the HD 7850, then I figure I'll go with it. Regarding wattage by the way, my computer has a CD Rom drive (which I NEVER use and could unplug if that would help any potential wattage issue (even if such an issue is unlikely) and a hard drive.

I don't think I even have a sound card, which is another question: Would a sound card even help any?

I was looking on Newegg for the HD7850 with 2GB, but was confused by some things.

Some of them say it uses a PCI Express 3.0 and some say PCI Express 3.0x16. My current video card says it uses PCI Express 2.0

Some of the comments stated that it runs pretty hot, and that you should get an extra fan or something for it?

I have to shut down my computer now to measure the size of the area. Thanks again for help!







 
Upvote 0 Downvote
coozie7

coozie7

Champion
Jun 2, 2007
10,015
10
59,215
Looks like you're running a fair few programs at once, so go ahead and add the extra memory, you might be surprised how it can smooth things out with multiple open programs. Two options here: Either get 2x2Gb modules of the same speed as those installed or go for 2x4Gb modules to replace those already installed. Either is good and don't worry about mixing makers, most motherboards are quite tolerant of mixed memory.
With a HD7850 the power supply will be just fine, don't bother disconnecting bits-a DVD drive only uses a few Watts anyway, even when working.
Not sure about your system but most motherboards have decent enough sound chips built in-certainly good enough for most gaming- check the documentation but I think you'll find several 3.5 m.m. jacks in the rear panel for headphones/speakers/microphone and being a prebuilt the required driver software should already be installed, literally 'plug and play'.
Don't worry about the PCI-E numbers the x16 part just signifies the size of the connector but not everyone adds the 'x16' bit, those that gave 'PCI-E 3.0' in the description just missed out the 'x16' bit.
Or 'everything you wanted to know about PCI-E but were glad you never asked' ;) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PCI_Express
Some cards can run hot, stick with the twin fan designs and it will be OK-if in doubt, read the Newegg feedback, but be aware those who have had a problem are more likely to post than those who are delighted!
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
Solution
G

giggsy07

Honorable
Nov 25, 2013
26
0
10,530
Hi.Sorry for digging up an old thread but just wondering how is the xps 7100 handling the upgrades.Iv bought a 7850 saphire and I seem the recommended psu is 500watt and mine is 460 like your own.Happy to see it should handle it.Did the extra ram make a difference?Thanks:)
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
E

emeraldstorm

Honorable
Nov 5, 2013
6
0
10,510


I've observed no electrical issues (not that I even know how they'd reveal themselves). ;-) It definitely runs much, much faster with the video card. The RAM made no *noticable* difference, but I assume when I have a ton of stuff open it will help. I'm so used to the new changes now that I don't know if I'd notice it.

The video card has worked very well. Recently purchased the converter necessary for me to use a 3rd monitor (since none of the monitors have the latest display port-type. Accell B087B-005B UltraAV DisplayPort to DVI-D Single-Link Active Adapter ATI Certified (Black) [Personal Computers]), and they all run fine.

Good luck with your upgrade ;-)
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
Kisianik

Kisianik

Splendid
Jan 24, 2013
3,462
3
22,515


If you are interested, your XPS can play BF4 on High to Ultra when completely upgraded, you can instal even 6 Core AMD on it, to make emeraldstorm uneasy and jealous, I can add one more thing - with proper upgrade your XPS can be overclocked as well, if you wish spend more money, memory can go to 16 GB.

Shortly, I wish that I had your PC not my Inspiron, which is identical cheaper version.

If you are interested, please sart a new post and drop here a link, so I can easy find it.

Basically your upgrade limit is the size of your wallet!

Anything else I can help you both with?
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
G

giggsy07

Honorable
Nov 25, 2013
26
0
10,530
I have a 6 core phenom 1055t at the moment.The overclocking would be of interest.I think I read a post by you of a fresh install minus the dell security.Non dell version of windows.I tried that and was still unable to oc in bios:(
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
Kisianik

Kisianik

Splendid
Jan 24, 2013
3,462
3
22,515


Good start - you are interested and willing to try new things, so please start new post, make sure that you list all your hardware components, plus OS 32 bit or 64 bit, if you are gaming, which is your most PC intense game, and most important - how much you are willing to spend. I hope you are living in US, so you can have plenty suppliers. Also, what is your PC upgrade skill approximately, no offense please: novice, know something and need some explanation, expert - just "show me the way".

P.S. Please don't forget to drop here a link to new post (there is a lot to talk about) for me and emeraldstorm.
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
G

giggsy07

Honorable
Nov 25, 2013
26
0
10,530
I'm fairly straight on where I want to go upgrade wise.The reason the oc didn't work is because my cpu is not a black edition.Its thuban.Im going to eventually change mobo and cpu.Ill probably have to upgrade the btx case also.
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
Kisianik

Kisianik

Splendid
Jan 24, 2013
3,462
3
22,515
First of all, you don't have BTX board, but regular mini ATX motherboard, so if you decide to move to the new case, it would be easy!

Second, CPU, AMD Phenom II X6 1090T Black Edition Six-core Processor eBay UK (you posted on UK Toms) http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/AMD-Phenom-II-X6-1090T-Black-Edition-Six-core-Processor-3-20-GHz-CPU-/271356857708?pt=UK_Computing_CPUs_Processors&hash=item3f2e210d6c for £89.99 (buy it now, no bidding) plus £5.99 Express Delivery.

You might have to upgrade CPU cooler for overclock.

Is it worth it?

Anything else I can help you with?

P.S. Just checked the rest of Hexa CPUs, this one I found considered very cheap find, so now or never!
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
G

giggsy07

Honorable
Nov 25, 2013
26
0
10,530

Great advice thanks.For CPU I was thinking phenom 2x4 core 965?be of course.
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
Kisianik

Kisianik

Splendid
Jan 24, 2013
3,462
3
22,515
Upvote 0 Downvote
E

eugenefbarr

Prominent
Aug 16, 2017
3
0
510


Talk about digging up an old thread, lol...

I have a Dell Studio XPS 7100 still running like a champ!

AMD Phenom(tm) II X6 1090T Processor- 3200MHz Overclocked to 3600MHz.
It will overclock to 4000MHz for about 30 min before temp gets a little high.
Going to push it to 4200MHz with better cooling, going with liquid.

Crucial Ballistix Sport 16GB Kit (4 x 4GB) DDR3-1866 UDIMM

I can't decide on a GPU! What's the best it'll handle?

Looking to run Battlefront 2 when it comes out.
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
Kisianik

Kisianik

Splendid
Jan 24, 2013
3,462
3
22,515


have you done your overclock with AMD OverDrive or BIOS?

It was long time ago, so I don't remember your BIOS. My Inspiron 570 runs more or less well in almost the same configuration as in my signature, minus extra hard drives. By now it is my secondary PC.
My primary is 4790K overclocked to 4.0 without turbo, on air as well.

If you overclocked using original CPU cooler, you are literally playing with fire - upgrade immediately.

It would be difficult for me right now to refresh all my memory, so I would recommend you to check my old post for upgrading Inspiron 570, especially CPU cooler part, so you can see what approximately can fit in your case and how to mount it. Your motherboard CPU cooler mounting would be very similar to Inspiron 570 if not the same.
So for further reading http://en.community.dell.com/support-forums/desktop/f/3514/t/19490818

Good luck
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
E

eugenefbarr

Prominent
Aug 16, 2017
3
0
510


Thanks, but I just went ahead and did everything already since no one was responding, lol. I had it OC to 3.6 from 3.2 for years already, on sock cooler. I installed a Corsair H80i v2 and OC to 4.2 easy. Held stability test over the weekend, did fine. Temps monitored fine. Installed EVGA GeForce GTX 1060 3GB GPU. RAM was the only buggy part, since the one I got was 1866MHz and the Mobo is 1333MHz. Just kept one old RAM in DIMM1 to down-clock, lol.

In a few years I'll be making a new PC build, so I'll salvage some of these parts and put them in New build.
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
Kisianik

Kisianik

Splendid
Jan 24, 2013
3,462
3
22,515


Good cooling solution, as long as temps do not increase over 62C, which is max for Phenom chips. I keep mine below 55C.
How did you overclocked, using BIOS or AMD Overdrive?
AMD Overdrive can give you more options in overclock. Heh, I managed to overclock Dell PC, which was not designed for this.
Your XPS BIOS has overclock features, mine, Inspiron 570 BIOS is locked.
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
You must log in or register to reply here.

TRENDING THREADS

Latest posts

Moderators online

Share this page

COMPANY
RESOURCES
FOLLOW
Top Bottom