Intel G45 video card replacement

[hifastius]

hi

I have a Gateway SX2800-01 PC, with the following specs:

# Intel Core 2 Quad Q8200 2.33 GHz Processor
# 4 MB L2 Cache, 1333 MHz Bus Speed
# 4096 MB DDR3 RAM
# 640 GB (7200RPM) SATA Hard Drive

with a graphics processor:Intel GMA X4500

unfortunately that video card is very weak, ie. gaming is very slow, and i was hoping to replace it with an nVidia. so my question is how do I know if there would any compatibility issues?

thanks

 

[dirtmountain]

The SX2800-01 PC is a slimline PC with a 220watt power supply.
http://www.gateway.com/systems/product/529668287.php

You'll have no socket compatibility problems with a PCIex16 graphic card, but it will have to be low powered because of your 220 watt power supply and it will have to be a low profile graphic card to fit in your case.

In my opinion your best choice would be an ATI low profile card such as the HD4650 or the HD4550.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102829

You can go with a higher power graphic card, but you'd have to also switch out your power supply for the better performance.

Here's a handy hierarchy chart that shows your Intel GMA X4500 integrated graphics and other discrete graphic choices.
http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/best-graphics-card,2387-7.html

 

[TMass]

I have a Dell Vostro 1720 lap warmer with an Intel G45 GPU... I travel to the middle of nowhere often and need my gaming entertainment. The current card barely allows me to run games on 'Low' graphic settings on the lowest resolution setting. (ie Bioshock 2, Crysis, etc.)

Which video card would be best to stick in this laptop? (considering size, power needs and cooling). RAM's not a problem, came with 4 gig.

Thanks for any help/suggestions.