Looking for an inexpensive GPU that will work with a 300w OEM PSU

Jun 16, 2014
2
0
4,510
I have an older off-the-shelf desktop that I am hoping to keep operational for a bit longer. As a result, I'd like to add a GPU, as the integrated graphics card on the motherboard taxes the system quite a bit. Here are the pertinent data for the machine in question:

Model: HP Pavilion a6030n
OS: Windows Vista 32-bit SP2
CPU: AMD Athlon 64 X2 6400+ (Brisbane 65nm) @ 2.5 GHz
Integrated Graphics: 128MB NVIDIA GeForce 6150SE nForce 430
RAM: 4.00 GB Dual-Channel DDR2 @ 313MHz
Available PCI Slots: 1
PSU: 300w OEM (and possibly proprietary) PSU

I would prefer not to put myself in a position to have to replace the PSU, as I am in the process of building a new rig and would rather not spend more on this one than necessary. Additionally, I have heard in other places that the PSU may be proprietary, so there is that to consider as well. Essentially, I am seeking an inexpensive stopgap measure. Legacy and out-of-production cards are fine, as I'm willing to hunt on eBay and the like. I would prefer to pay no more than $50, but could be persuaded to consider up to $75.

Many thanks for your consideration and assistance!
 

khein

Reputable
Jun 17, 2014
12
0
4,510
Hi chickenfriedchocobo,

Based on HP Pavilion a6030n Desktop PC Product Specifications:
Expansion slots
PCI - Two (One available)
PCI Express x16 - One (One available)
PCI Express x1 - One (One available)

For $75 you may try finding an AMD 7750 from ebay. Or any other video card that does not need any external power.

Maybe other users might give you more options. Since I'm not really sure if upgrading your videocard would give you some benefit since your other components will introduce bottleneck, and how the iGPU taxes your motherboard, assuming your "keep operational" means Microsoft Office + Internet browsing.

Personally I'd recommend an HDD to SSD upgrade.
 
Jun 16, 2014
2
0
4,510


Thanks for the recommendation regarding an SSD. It's something I've considered, and I will look into it. The only thing I am uncertain of at this point is how to cleanly port the OS without a reinstall, as the off-the-shelf computer, being an HP, did not come with an actual OS disc, but a 'recovery partition' on the main HDD that essentially resets the machine to factory. Clearly one of the follies of having bought pre-built, but at the time I didn't have the interest or confidence to build, so there we are.

Regarding the assistance the GPU would provide, I do play some games on the old machine (naturally not the newest by any stretch, but still) and have recently begun tinkering very mildly with amateur video editing. From what I have been told by others, the GPU might help in those regards, and it's been suggested that it would give my monitor (24") an easier time and perhaps help with resolution. My knowledge level is fairly basic, though, so if I'm mistaken, any corrections would be appreciated.

As to whether it's PCI or PCI express, I believe it's PCI express, but again, I am not sure. The slot I'm looking to fill is located below the modem in the case, and I will probably just remove the modem, as I haven't had a use for dialup the whole time I've owned it. I'll look and see if I can find any visual examples elsewhere on the web to better identify the slot, though.

Thanks again for the replies!
 

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