Upgrading video card and more for Dell XPS 420

[Exar0s]

Hey,

I am new here so thanks for all the help in advance.

I purchased a Dell XPS 420 several years ago and am now looking into upgrading it for some gaming (Skyrim, SWToR etc).

Here is the basic details of the unit:


Operating System: Microsoft Windows Vista Home Edition

Processor: Intel Quad CPU Q6600 @2.40 GHz 2.39 GHz

CPU Type: 2x , 2400 MHz (7 x 343)

Motherboard Name: Dell Dell XPS420 (Not sure how to locate the Mother Board details)

Video Adapter: ATI Radeon HD 2400 PRO (I know . . . )

Monitor: Dell E228WFP [NoDB] (KU3117BN0BUL)

RAM: 3.0 GB

I do not know how to look up my power supply either >_<

My main question is would I be able to upgrade the V-CARD and RAM/Power Supply to meet the requirements to play games such as Skyrim and SWToR?

Or would I be better off purchasing a new PC? I do not have the funds for a new $800+ PC. This is why I would rather upgrade if possible.

If you need more info on my PC please ask and if possible tell me how to find it for you. I have been away from PC gaming for some time and I'm not very smart when it comes to the inside of a PC.

Thanks!

 

[esrever]

you should be able to just throw in a graphics card like the 7770 and have it run all the games you need.

 

[purple stain]

I agree with esrever.Either a 7750 or a 7770 should be able to work with your current PC.I would say the max you would want to put in that PC(with a new PSU) would be a 6870 or GTX560.Anything more than that would get bottlenecked by your CPU.

What is your budget?

 

[Exar0s]

I really do not want to go over $300.

I imagine that I will need a new power supply to run a newer video card. I looked at mine about a year ago and I remember that it was not very high.

What would be an ideal video card and power supply for about $300? I could go a little over if needed but not much.

How strong of a power supply would I need for the 7750 or 7770?

 

[purple stain]

Your current PSU should be enough to power a 7750 and maybe a 7770 depending.What you can do is take the side panel off of your case and look at the wattage on the PSU.Their should be a chart.

Honestly I would just buy a 7750 and save enough money for a new PC.But if you wanted to just limp along with a better GPU here's what you could do...

XFX DD 6870 $170=$140 after MIR + Free Shipping
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814150521

Corsair TX750 $110=$90 after MIR + Free Shipping
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139021

Total comes to $280 before MIR's.The PSU is a bit overkill but that's one of the most lasting componets of a PC.The technology barely changes over time.And you have money to spare for it.

 

[Exar0s]

I will have to look at the PSU when I get home from work tonight. Thanks for all the advice so far!