I installed vid card computer turns on and off

[shagwell585]

hello i tried to intall an ati 3870 hd into my dell dimension 5150 i was reading online that people had had luck with the factory psu running the card but when i put the card in the compiuter turns on then shuts down ove and over also the moniter does not click on the card was givin to me used any ideas?

 

[COLGeek]

Sounds like you diagnosed the problem yourself. You are describing a classic power issue and it sounds like yours is not up to the task. You can replace the Dell PSU with just about any standard PSU. What is your budget for such an upgrade?

Also, did you connect the required external power connector to the video card? And, are you sure the 3870 actually works (that is an older GPU)?

 

[shagwell585]

yes a had to buy a 4 pin to 6 pin adapter and im not sure if the card works it was givin to me by a girl whos bf was away (long story) so im sure fan works on the card i have like could i get a decent psu for like $50?? is there any other way to tell if the card is ok? im a straight noob at all of this

 

[COLGeek]

The easiest way to see if the GPU works is to install in another compatible computer, like the one it came out of.

For a good $50 PSU try this on for size:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817371045

This one will meet your needs.

This one is better and only a few bucks more:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817371035

My recommendation, get the second PSU ($59.99 + free shipping) and verify that the GPU works while waiting for the PSU.

 

[COLGeek]

Just because the fan turns does not mean the GPU is operational.

 

[shagwell585]

ok thanks for the help and i will follow your advice