Compaq video card upgrade

[lalapet73]

Hello,
I have a compaq SR2170nx with a Radeon 200x video card. ATI Readon Xpress 1100 graphic card. I have 2g of ram, Pentium 4 processor. Can anyone tell me what video card my computer can support specifically for the Sims 3?

 

[builderbobftw]

You will want a whole new build, the CPU will hold back any decent card.

Anyways, Is there PCIe on the mobo?

 

[deadlockedworld]

Hey,

First, as bob has indicated--its is time for a new computer. An upgrade will only help you a little--it wont give you the performance of a newer computer. That said, I'll answer your question below:

Is this your computer?
http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?docname=c00835809&lc=en&dlc=en&cc=us&lang=en&product=3340210

If so, it does have a PCI express slot--meaning a graphic update wouldn't be to expensive.

Before we can make a recommendation you need to let us know a couple things:
-What operating system? XP?
-How much wattage does your power supply have?--(It didnt say online--you will have to look inside the case)

If your PSU is up to it you could get a pretty decently performing ATI 4650 for $42.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814161303&cm_re=4650-_-14-161-303-_-Product

 

[builderbobftw]

Hey,

First, as bob has indicated--its is time for a new computer. An upgrade will only help you a little--it wont give you the performance of a newer computer. That said, I'll answer your question below:

Is this your computer?
http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?docname=c00835809&lc=en&dlc=en&cc=us&lang=en&product=3340210

If so, it does have a PCI express slot--meaning a graphic update wouldn't be to expensive.

Before we can make a recommendation you need to let us know a couple things:
-What operating system? XP?
-How much wattage does your power supply have?--(It didnt say online--you will have to look inside the case)

If your PSU is up to it you could get a pretty decently performing ATI 4650 for $42.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814161303&cm_re=4650-_-14-161-303-_-Product

He realy should just get a new build, not worth buying a new psu and gpu for his build...

Also, that GPU you linked has had problems with the fan....

(The HIS model)

 

[lalapet73]

I am running Vista 32 bit. The wattage is 300. I upgraded the memory to 2 GB. It has the ATI Radeon Xpress 1100 Graphics. I can't afford to buy a new computer so what should I do?I have a radeon 9500 series that someone gave me to try. I don't want to mess anything up. I am not as knowledgable with this stuff but I am learning. I have had this system for 3 years and the fans are still working fine.

I really appreciate any help...

 

[deadlockedworld]

If its a generic 9500 its not any better than what you currently have. You can view a full graphics card hierarchy here:
http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/best-graphics-card,2569-6.html

The card I listed earlier would work, and would be much more powerful than your computer can probably take advantage of. There are cheaper options, but I think this is probably the best value with the free shipping and etc. Its also decent enough that you could use it in a cheaper new PC when you get it.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814161303&cm_re=4650-_-14-161-303-_-Product&nm_mc=AFC-C8Junction&cm_mmc=AFC-C8Junction-_-RSSDailyDeals-_-na-_-na&AID=10521304&PID=3463938&SID=

This re-certified card would be an even more affordable option:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814127469

Be aware that you can get pretty decent PC's for under $500. Good Dell deals start in the $400s w/ monitor, and you can get refurbished PCs with good specs in the $300s. The 4650 card I suggested above would transfer to one of these low-end options and would still be better than the stock graphics. (Edit: ask for suggestions if you decide you can go this route)

 

[lalapet73]

Okay so looking at the chart would an x1300 DVI work or is it too much for my system?

 

[deadlockedworld]

Where would you find one? I'm pretty sure that card has been out of production for quite some time (as have most of the lower level cards) Make certain any cards you find have a PCI Express X 16 interface. (1.0 and 2.0 are both compatible)

The cheapest cards you will probably find on the market right now are the ATI 4350, or the Nvidia 9400 GT. They arent really designed for gaming, but would still be much more powerful than what you have. However, they are still in the $30 range and are substantially less powerful than the 4650.

 

[deadlockedworld]

If you are looking to save money one option would be to scan craigslist/ebay for some used cards. You can often get good deals on cards enthusiasts no longer want.

If you use craigslist locally just make certain you see that the card actually works before paying for it.

 

[lalapet73]

Okay another question...I was looking in my computer and I can't find the card. Is it part of the motherboard? I see the express slot. Would I just place it in there? I think I am over my head on this one.

 

[deadlockedworld]

The graphics you have now are integrated into the motherboard (which is one of the reasons they suck) If you put a new card in the PCI express x16 slot it will override the motherboard graphics and take over.

 

[lalapet73]

Ok that's what I was wondering. I can install the new card. I think I will go with your sugestion untill we are able to get a whole better system. Thank you so much for all your help.

 

[builderbobftw]

Turn this into a new build thread?