Upgrading my Intel G45/G43 Express Chipset

[TheKingHK]

I have an Intel Core 2 Quad Q8400 and can barely run mine craft which is pathetic. I thought my current video card was not the problem until I read this:

"The G45/43 express chipset is simply a feature of your motherboard allowing it to run graphics. This is meant for simple tasks such as working in Windows and browsing the internet or watching videos. What you need to game is called a discreet graphics card."

so I wanted to know if that ^^ is true and the names of any cards that could become replacements.

Psu = 300 watts

my computer = http://ark.intel.com/products/38512/Intel-Core2-Quad-Processor-Q8400-(4M-Cache-2_66-GHz-1333-MHz-FSB)

any help would be greatly appreciated

 

[Sunius]

That quote is the truth. You won't be able to play any games with it.

You your processor is quite powerful, so you could upgrade to a decent graphics card. It all depends on your budget. Before you state it, I can't really recommend anything at all.

Also, do you have a standard size case?

 

[coffeecoffee]

I have an Intel Core 2 Quad Q8400 and can barely run mine craft which is pathetic. I thought my current video card was not the problem until I read this:

"The G45/43 express chipset is simply a feature of your motherboard allowing it to run graphics. This is meant for simple tasks such as working in Windows and browsing the internet or watching videos. What you need to game is called a discreet graphics card."

so I wanted to know if that ^^ is true and the names of any cards that could become replacements.

Psu = 300 watts

my computer = http://ark.intel.com/products/38512/Intel-Core2-Quad-Processor-Q8400-(4M-Cache-2_66-GHz-1333-MHz-FSB)

any help would be greatly appreciated

As one of the users has previously stated, although your CPU is of a older generation; it's still very capable today. However, getting a Graphics Card would mean getting a new Power Supply as well. Your current CPU has a peak power of 95Ws, leaving 205 watts for your Hard Drives, Ram, Motherboard, Case Fans, and now a Graphics Card.. that's way too.... insufficient and anything that will run on your 300W Power Supply is simply not worth the money. I'd recommend getting a new 500W Power Supply and a 6870. You'll see dramatic performance improvement and you'll even be able to play all modern games at good/reasonable settings [up to 1920 x 1080 resolutions].

XFX 6870 [$169.99 + Free Shipping + $30 Mail in Rebate]
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814150561

Power Supply;
OCZ ModXStream Pro 600W [$74.99 + Free Shipping + $25 Mail in Rebate]
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817341017\

OR

Corsair 650W Enthusiast Series [$89.99 + Free Shipping + $10 Mail in Rebate]
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139020

Hardware choice reasons:
I chose the 6870 over the 6850 since it's only $5 more after the $30 Rebate. While the 6870 may be last generation, it has better performance for the same price than what's available in the current lineup. Also, being older means it's drivers are that much more mature [Contrary to popular belief, newer doesn't always mean better]. To top if off, it even has a $30 Mail in Rebate, which adds even more value to this already Amazing Performance Vs Price ratio Graphics Card.

Regarding Power Supplies; I chose the OCZ ModXStream 600w because it's 1) Modular and 2) Great value due to the $25 Mail in Rebate. If you want better quality and hardware lifetime, I chose the 650W Corsair Enthusiast series - it has a unbeatable legendary track record. [chose the 650W Corsair over the 550W b/c it's cheaper for some odd reason]

I am not sure how knowledgeable you are regarding computers and $200 [roughly] for a upgrade may seem like a lot, but you'll be amazed at what performance you'll gain from it. Not only does it breath new life into your system, you'll also be able to play most modern games at reasonable settings.

~Coffee

 

[muntee]

I have the dsame chipset but with an intel celeron e3300 clocked and 3.5ghz and i can play mc with my friend who have i5 procesor so maybe its just thta ur computer is get clow over time