What Graphics Card do I need for a HP Pavilion a6650f desktop

[nates_tips]

I have a HP Pavilion a6650f desktop. I would like to install a graphics card that supports dual monitors. Can you tell me what graphics card will be just as good or better than the VIDIA GeForce 6150 graphics card that is currently in it? We're setting up my Dad's computer for a dual monitor support for fathers day, so we want something better and not worse than what he currently has.

If you need more specs to give an answer, here's the link to it on Newegg - http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16883107733

Thanks for the help!

 

[rewindlabs]

If you want a card just for displaying two monitors and not gaming or resource intensive 3d modeling right?

Whats your budget....and intended screen resolutions?

 

[nates_tips]

His current resolution is 1440 x 900 pixels, and we need to leave it that way.

No, it's not for gaming, just office work.

Thanks for the fast reply!

 

[nates_tips]

ct1615,

Thanks for the help. Was it easy to install? Just plug n go?

I'm very savvy with the software side of computers, but still learning with the hardware.

thanks!

 

[megamanx00]

18A on the 12v rail isn't too bad. Looks like only low profile cards will fit though or I'd suggest a 4670. Anyway go with a low profile 4350/4550, or a low profile 9500GT.

 

[nates_tips]

Thank you for the help thus far. While I'm at it, I might as well get the best of the two if it's only a couple of bucks extra. Is the Nvidia 8400GS better than the ATI 3450?

Also, there is different brands out there such as Asus, MSI and Gigabyte. Which would you get from this list:

http://www.nvidia.com/object/buy_now_results_ci.html?id=GF8400GS

Thanks again, I really appreciate the help.

 

[coozie7]

For office work there is probably not much between them.
I normally suggest buying from XFX, EVGA or BFG if available, they have the best warranties and customer support.
Oh, and noise is going to be an issue-so check the Newegg reviews, even if you do not purchase from them.

 

[nates_tips]

From time to time, he will listen to audio and watch DVD's from conferences, etc. Will the above two graphics card do the job?

 

[coozie7]

I think the HD3450 might be a better option, if only for its better DVD decode. This card was once the weapon of choice for HTPC builders!

 

[nates_tips]

One reason why I was leaning more towards the Nvidia 8400GS is that the desktop already has a Nvidia card from when he bought the PC.

Would it matter if I switched to ATI?