Here are my settings, intel core i7-2600 cpu@3.40GHz, 12.0gb ram, amd radeon hd 7700 series. What am I missing that is causing me to have low fps in max setting while playing Star wars old republic?
The HD7790 (being the higher from the HD7700 series) is a mid-range GPU, I don't know how demanding the Star Wars old republic game is, but the answer easily is that you need a better GPU if you want to play games at max settings.
i have played Swtor alot and i can tell you that is a very demanding game especially if the server is on heavy load. i dont think you can max that game out and get 60fps at all times due to so much going on inside the game im not sure how gpu demanding the game is im pretty sure its more processor dependent. just run the game in medium high settings as its a very demanding game.
or you could download the program swtor unleashed and try and get better frames link is here http://www.swtor.com/community/showthread.php?p=5128822
Dell kinda screwed me over suggesting the hd 7700 series upgrade, but I take blame for being noobish, how do I determine the best possible upgrade for my xps 8300
Your mobo is able to take even the newest GPU around (assuming there's enough room in your case).
The only piece that could hold you back in your system is your PSU, see which GPU you want to buy according to your budget then see which PSU requirements it has, most likely you'll need to also buy a new PSU so keep that on mind for your budget.