Want to Go HD but only have PCI Ex1 and PCI on Dell OptiplexGX520

Hello. Im looking to turn my Dell Optiplex GX520 into a multimedia PC

Running Windows 7 RC1



Pentium D 3.2Gig Dual Core CPU

4GB DDR2 Ram

350W Generic Power Supply

Currently Running XP Pro nicely



BTX Form Factor MB in Mini Tower



Its really not a bad pc apart from the lack of PCI Express x 16

It only has one PCI Ex1 and some regular PCI Slots.



Im looking to install a HDCP capable Video Card with HDMI output as well as a HDTV Tuner card and possibly a BluRay RRW to make this into a good home multimedia center.



Im thinking that it may pay to just dump everything and take the ram and CPU for a new ATX MB setup.

Would you suggest this as the best option.

Any advice would be really appreciated.



Cheers

Mathew

If he can get a good card for DXVA then his CPU will be okay. This PCI 8400GS has DXVA, and can do DXVA if I'm not mistaken. Also this 9500GT can do it do but a bit pricey . Make sure you have a program like Media Player Home Classic or PowerDVD 8-9 to get DXVA

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6814139046
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6814187042

PS. I rely on DXVA from my video card to do most/all the encoding from my CPU. Thats why my HD HTPC rig is a P4, lol.

1. stop buying craptastic dells. 2. build a rig, its more cost effective for your money, but you can still use some parts from your current devil dell