Affordable 9600 for HTPC

[Guest]

Archived from groups: alt.comp.periphs.videocards.ati (More info?)

Hi

I am planning to get a ATI 9600+ AGP videocard for HD component output
to my HDTV. I usually play DVDs and sometime encode mpeg from my DV
camcorder. Originally I thought of getting the 9600XT from ShopATI for
$119 (trade-in program) but changed my mind due to a deal of $79 for
Visiontek 9600 256mb.

The visiontek 9600 256mb has a GPU fan on it (unlike other 9600
non-pro's), so overclocking is easy and makes it close to 9600xt in
performance. My plan is to overclock it using ATI utilities and use the
DVI->YPbPr adapter from ATI to connect to my HDTV. I do understand the
difference in build quality of ATI and Visiontek exists but it's not
worth 50% price permimum IMO. My existing visiontek GF2 Mx400 has
worked fine for 4 years.

Here's a link to OC test : http://www.vr-zone.com/?i=457&s=9

I would appreciate it if knowledgeable folks would comment on
feasibility and issues with this approach.

Regards
GotsE

P4 2.4 Ghz, SuperMicro P4SAA, Mx400 GF2, LG 4040B, Antec Overture,
2x160GB Seagate HD, Sony 32HS510 via s-video

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: alt.comp.periphs.videocards.ati (More info?)

> The visiontek 9600 256mb has a GPU fan on it (unlike other 9600
> non-pro's), so overclocking is easy and makes it close to 9600xt

Do you play games on your HTPC? If you don't, I would go for the fanless
version and not overclock it.
--
Mac Cool