PSU or GPU issue?

[zeruin]

I think I'm pushing the limit with my current PSU, it's a 450w Corsair, about 2 years old. My current system is as follows..

e2160 1.8ghz (OC to 2.4)
gigabyte p35 mobo
9800gtx+
450w corsair
2gb ocz

My problem is I think my GPU can perform much better than what it's currently running at.. I like playing games like CoD4, L4D2, and even DDO, but I have to keep the settings at low with a resolution near 1024x768 most of the time or I my games will artifact and eventually freeze the computer. All of my drivers are up to date, I've tried dropping/raising to OC on my CPU, but I typically get the same results..

My assumption is that considering this only happens under higher loads, I'm pulling too much power from my little 450w PSU. At such a low resolution, I would assume the 9800gtx+ would be able to nearly max out most of the games I play without too much of a hiccup.. so I really am inclined to think this is a PSU issue..

I've updated drivers and checked just about everything else.. What do you guys think.. PSU or no?

I recently purchased a Corsair 750w for my new system build, I suppose one way of testing this theory would be to plug it in here temporarily and test it again..

What PSU would you guys recommend.. possibly a decent 600w?

 

[Emperus]

As per me, the problem lies with your CPU which is pretty weak for gaming.. I assume you are using the corsair VX450W PSU which is pretty much apt to run a 9800GTX+.. My suggestion would be to upgrade to at least an intel C2D E7500.. If possible, get another 2GB of RAM also..

 

[shadow187]

Your CPU is indeed holding you back. My E1400 bottlenecked an HD4650, which is significantly weaker than a 9800GTX+. A Crosair 450Watt is very nice, and it would handle an HD5850, to be honest.

If you can afford an E5300, an E7200, or an E8400, get one of those.