I am just about to purchase this computer the Gateway SX2800-01 and wanted to upgrade some items. I would like to upgrade the psu and the videocard. I would like to keep the whole deal under 200 dollars if I can. Thanks!!
Thanks for your suggestions so far. The gaming I would be doing would be WoW and Company of heroes. I also would play some other RTS's and things like that. Nothing too terribly taxing. Obsidian, does that videocard happen to be a low profile card?
You need a low profile or low profile ready graphic card. Since the power supply that comes with the SX2800-01 is only 220w you'd also need to replace it.
The most powerful graphic card available as a low profile ready (you have to change the back plate yourself) is this 9800GT. Some problems are noise and heat. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6814187061
The Seasonic 300w can power either card, but you do need to use the included 2-molex to PCIe adapter so check the power supply picture to make sure it has enough connectors for you. With either card you're going to have to watch your temperatures and possibly add fans or replace fans to up your cooling. Either option (there's actually 3 9600GT you could buy) would cost under $200
The Galaxy 9600 GT is the better of the two. True low profile, less heat and noise, lower power draw, and a better distributor. Makes up for the slightly low performance.
Message edited by jeffredo on 08-16-2009 at 09:55:36 AM