C521 low profile graphics card or new pc 2011

[chris88]

Need something cheap to fix what I presume is a blown graphics card. Upon going through all the testing, etc. I have a blank screen, but everything else works. Spent $$ already on a great HD4850 Radeon card that sounded like it was a great choice from the boards I read. Oops!! Like many others - found out it way.... didn't fit.
Really tight budget (disability, etc) so this is a hand me down pc. What's the vote....cheap graphics card & hope that's all that's wrong.....or save up for a new pc??

Thanks!
Chris

 

[wolfram23]

Dell Dimension C521?
http://www.pcworld.com/product/29434/dell_dimension_c521.html?p=specs

Unfortunately that PC is simply not meant for gaming. It really needs 4gb RAM, a new case (to fit normal size GPUs) and the CPU is weak.

That said... well, 4gb RAM is going to set you back ~$100. A medicore GPU $100 or so... and a cheap case another $80. But at that point you're just a few hundred from a significant upgrade (new mobo, cpu, and psu).

You can build a decent $500 PC for gaming.
http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/budget-gaming-pc-phenom-ii-radeon-hd-6850,2903.html

 

[chris88]

Dell Dimension C521?
http://www.pcworld.com/product/29434/dell_dimension_c521.html?p=specs

Unfortunately that PC is simply not meant for gaming. It really needs 4gb RAM, a new case (to fit normal size GPUs) and the CPU is weak.

That said... well, 4gb RAM is going to set you back ~$100. A medicore GPU $100 or so... and a cheap case another $80. But at that point you're just a few hundred from a significant upgrade (new mobo, cpu, and psu).

You can build a decent $500 PC for gaming.
http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/budget-gaming-pc-phenom-ii-radeon-hd-6850,2903.html

Hi,
Thanks, Wofram23 for your fast reply. Sounds like a new or newer is recommended. I'm going to have to do some thinking. Perhaps I'll have to take half steps to get to the gamer mode. Thanks for your info and articles!
Chris88

 

[purple stain]

What type of games do you play and what level of intisity are you looking for?

Whats your resoultion?

Depending on what level of gaming you play at you can get a cheap low profile 5570 for $60 as a quick patch until you have enough money for a new computer.

 

[chapschaps]

what brand low profile card are you talking becuse im trying to get one myself