Replacing PSU

[backstroke1507]

Im looking to replace my power supply which is currently 300W to maybe 400W so i can replace my graphics card. What do i need to know about power supplies concerning compatibility with my current system? i have an hp pc with intel pentium d processor, 2gb memory, 300gb harddrive, and currently an nvidia geforce 6200se graphics card. also, if i were to replace the power supply to support a better graphics card, what do i need to be concerned with about bottlenecking with the cpu i have?

 

[dirtmountain]

It would help if you gave the model number of which HP you have. One option you have is to use a HD4670 graphic card with your 300w power supply, that way you won't have to switch out your PSU.

 

[shubham1401]

First choose a card then choose a suitable PSU.

Most of the good cards will be bottlenecked by your CPU.
But you can get a 4670 or 9800GT for cheap.

Cards upto GTX 260 can run on a 400W PSU.

Whats your budget?

 

[backstroke1507]

my budget was around $250 but its pretty flexible if the parts im getting are pretty good quality. i really just would like to get a card thats able to run with my CPU and just switch out the power supply if thats possible. i looked at the 4670 and it said a 400W power supply was required. would it still work on my 300W?

 

[shubham1401]

Post the 12v rail amperage from the sticker on the PSU.
That would decide whether it can take the card or not.

I feel 4670 would be the best choice for your Pentium D.

 

[backstroke1507]

the sticker says +12V/19 A

 

[shubham1401]

4670 will work nicely on that PSU.
Buy it if you don't wanna upgrade your PSU.

 

[geofelt]

the sticker says +12V/19 A

I doubt that you can run anything significantly better.

If you have a 5 1/2 bay available, consider an auxiliary vga psu like this for $75:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817104054

With it, you can run the strongest vga card that will fit.