Help a rookie find his systems weak point

[og954]

I built this PC about 3 years ago. It was my first build and I must admit I feel lost when it comes to analyzing specs and determining if everything is running the way it is supposed to be. Here is a link to my cpu-z validation.

http://valid.canardpc.com/show_oc.php?id=2003909

My PSU is an Antec 430 earthwatts. The ATI radeon 4200 is integrated on the motherboard. I want to upgrade my PC in order to start playing newer games. I am looking for where to start. What is my systems weakest point? Thanks

 

[og954]

Here are some screenshots of CPU-z and hardware monitor.

http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/651/powerxn.jpg

http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/822/memory1f.jpg

http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/16/memoryjg.jpg

http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/855/graphicsgz.jpg

 

[ilikemacandpc]

Yes, he has 4 gb of ram.


I would recommend a a small ssd and a good $100 dollar graphics card.
An Athlon II x4 620 is an okay cpu. Though, your integrated graphics are holding you back and will not allow you to play games.

Your power supply should be able to handle these.

Graphics - MSI AMD Radeon HF 6770 with free Dirt3 game

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814127599

SSD- This is an OCZ Vertex 2 40gb

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820227610

Price before rebates $200
Price after rebates $180

These will TOTALLY speed up your computer.
If you want, add some ram, but these two things above will help you more.

 

[og954]

Thanks. These are exactly the type of answers I was looking for. I was worried that I would need to upgrade my PSU before I can add a graphics card. FWIW I don't have anything overclocked.

 

[og954]

Best answer selected by og954.