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Low-Power Graphics Cards

Last response: in Graphics & Displays
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Hey everyone,

When I designed my HTPC, I wasn't planning on using it for gaming, but lately that 42" plasma has been beckoning... ;) 

I built my HTPC with low-power in mind, so it only has a 300W PSU, albeit a very efficient one:
SeaSonic SS-300ES 300W ATX12V Ver.2.2

I have a very low-power CPU as well:
AMD Athlon X2 4850e (45W)


My hard-drive is one of those Western Digital Green cards:
Western Digital Caviar Green WD6400AACS

I also have another, 5400 RPM hard drive (just full of media, doesn't get much use while gaming), and a regular DVD burner attached.

Anyway I was wondering what kind of graphics card I could use in this setup. I have heard that the Radeon 4650/4670 are pretty low power, but I find myself extremely confused as soon as I try to start adding up Watts and Amps. Would a 4670 work in my computer? Or should I just get a 500W power supply if I want decent graphics?

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To the op, get it and try it, I've got a 9600gt which is not much better than the 4670 and I so far am very pleased, even running at 1680x1050 resolution. I think you may be quite suprised what you can pick up for 80 bucks.

jfischer01 said:
I believe it's 17 amps on the 12V rail (that's what it says on Newegg). Could i get something stronger than the 4670 in there? If so, anyone have any suggestions?


It has 2 12V rails.

ohiou_grad_06 said:
I think for a power supply that weak, no. That said the 4670 shouldn't be bad. But I think if you want a better card you are looking at a PSU upgrade which can be pricey as well.


It's actually not that weak, 288W on 12V.
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