Someone please explain graphics cards

[Telly47]

Would some of you computer wiz kids please tell me what kind of graphics card I should get for my Dell 2400. The stock card is 64 mb correct? But its no good im told, and yes I know my computer is not this amazing computer machine, I just need to upgrade to a decent card , PCI, so my games run a little smoother, thanks guys. Ryan.

[Telly47]

Also, I have a Creative Labs 32mb annihilator GB0050 Geforce 2mx PCI , its about 4 years old, , is this card worse then my stock card? Im guessing its pretty weak right?

[Johnny J]

Yeah, have a look for a 128mb Geforce 4 or any other 128mb card. They should be able to play games quite well and not break the budget. The next step is a 256mb, Im sure you could find a bottom of the line 256mb card for a decent price too.

[Telly47]

Thanks man, I appreciate it.

[Chinokix06]

http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?c=us&cs=19&kc=6V588&l=en&oc=D24SO&s=dhs

Well the 2400 is not really build for games, bad video card and crap for ram, and sadly i remember my dad telling me how you cant change video card in that "OR" its not just a simple pull the old one out stick the new one in, install the drivers. (because i wanted to get the 2400, but wont work with what i want to do with it)

[Telly47]

"yes I know my computer is not this amazing computer machine, I just need to upgrade to a decent card"

I dont know jack about computers and I already changed the stock graphics card, its not that hard.

[Chinokix06]

Chinokix06 said:
http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?c=us&cs=19&kc=6V588&l=en&oc=D24SO&s=dhs
i remember my dad telling me how you cant change video card in that "OR" its not just a simple pull the old one out stick the new one in, install the drivers. (because i wanted to get the 2400, but wont work with what i want to do with it)


if it could be or was dell would offer you an upgrade option when you bought the computer.

[Telly47]

Do you know what Dell suggest to upgrade the card too?

[Telly47]

I went to Newegg.com and found some very good prices on 128mB PCI and 256 MB PCI, has anyone ordered from them?

[WESTOZ racer]

If you're suggesting you need a PCI graphic card, is that the only option you have? Do you have a brown AGP slot? If so, only buy AGP graphic cards. If you need a PCI one however, youll be better off buying a new comp really :( .

Generally, PCI bus is slow and has no speed for graphics purposes, thus the cards are poor performers and cost on average nearly 40% more than a AGP graphics card. Dont ask me why...it seems rediculous.

So, you could buy a new mainboard as an option, and be ready for future upgrades. Its still all money unfortunately, but theres no point in purchasing a PCI card, it will likely be nearly as slow at the current one.

:o

[Telly47]

Interesting, I've never heard that before. Im mean I know PCI is way slower then AGP, but Ive been talking to people with PCI cards and they say its a night and day difference (ex: 32mb PCI to a 256mb PCI) , thankyou for your input, maybe I should consider a new board. Do you have any suggestions, there are PCI 256mb cards for under $100, are mother boards cheaper? Thanks, Ryan.

[WESTOZ racer]

You're in the U.S? If you are then you can pick up a decent mainboard for under $100, such as something with an Intel 865/875 chipset from http://newegg.com/app/manufact.asp?catalog=280&DEPA=0.

Then, youll have the option to upgrade your processor and ram and video card as you see fit.

[Mega_Hurtz]

You wont be playing any decent looking games with any PCI card, AGP is where its at.......well untill PCI-express is more widespread.

if you have got a AGP slot then i would recommend a radeon 9800 pro, they are cheap and perform fairly well.

[Telly47]

How did you guys learn how to "swap" out motherboards? I can see now that switching to AGP is the better value, but I don't want to fry my computer in the process, (Dell 2400) do I use my old P4 chip and put it on the new board, or is it a total start from scratch type of install? any good websites or books that teach this?
You guys are very helpfull, thanks again.

[Mega_Hurtz]

^I didnt really learn properly i just read information from PC forums.
What i would do in your situation would be to buy a motherboard that supports all your current hardware (processor, RAM etc.) then you could buy your graphics card.

This is a fairly inexpensive option as you could probably pick up a compatable motherboard for very cheap!

If you do decide to do this remember to take your time and put all the static sensitive components (almost everything) on things that dont produce static electricity as they will be ruined!

[WESTOZ racer]

As said, a new mainboard on the socket 478 base with ddr memory slots will see all of your current hardware including the cpu be compatible. If you're not too comfortable with a build, Id take it to a reputable computer store and ask them to fit the new mainboard.
As with any new component which is different however, you may need to format your hard disk. This prevents any driver "confusion" and ensures correct running. Back up your data then format with a fresh install of your O.S.

Mainboards I'd recommend for you are something from ASUS such as teh P4C800 or Abit such as the AI7. These all support your hardware, and have the latest in socket 478 gear.

Hope this helps.

[Chinokix06]

WESTOZ racer said:
If you're suggesting you need a PCI graphic card, is that the only option you have? Do you have a brown AGP slot? If so, only buy AGP graphic cards. If you need a PCI one however, youll be better off buying a new comp really :( .

Generally, PCI bus is slow and has no speed for graphics purposes, thus the cards are poor performers and cost on average nearly 40% more than a AGP graphics card. Dont ask me why...it seems rediculous.

So, you could buy a new mainboard as an option, and be ready for future upgrades. Its still all money unfortunately, but theres no point in purchasing a PCI card, it will likely be nearly as slow at the current one.

:o


heh thanks you explained what i was trying to say, dell puts pci cards on their lower end models such as the 2400 (no im not bashing your computer, mines a dell xps pent 3 600 mhz no room to talk =P)

[Telly47]

no offense taken my friend, Ive been out of computers for about 4 years now, I feel like its been 400, technology is brilliant. Thanks to everyone who responded.

[Telly47]

What do you guys think about this board to put in my Dell2400 http://www.newegg.com/app/viewproductdesc.asp?description=13-121-186&DEPA=1 would it be a compatible switch?