Finally Upgrading Graphics Card.

  1. #1
    AliveAndKickin is offline Full Member

    Finally Upgrading Graphics Card.

    I finally found out the info I needed to upgrade(pci or agp or whatever) I presently have an 8mb pci graphics card and the output of my psu is not available at the time I am writing this...but it IS a small amount(stock equip). I have a n etower 733i and I want to upgrade to 33mb or even 64mb. What kind of psu output will I need for this? Will any other upgrade be necessary? Thank you.

  2. #2
    Digerati is offline Super Moderator
    and the output of my psu is not available at the time I am writing this
    The only way to determine the output is to look at the label.

    Will any other upgrade be necessary?
    Probably not. Here's my canned text on sizing and selecting a new PSU.

    Use the eXtreme PSU Calculator Lite to determine your power supply unit (PSU) requirements. Plug in all the hardware you think you might have in 2 or 3 years (extra drives, bigger or 2nd video card, more RAM, etc.). Be sure to read and heed the notes at the bottom of the page. I recommend setting Capacitor Aging to 30%, and if you participate in distributive computing projects (e.g. BOINC or Folding@Home), I recommend setting TDP to 100%. These steps ensure the supply has adequate head room for stress free operation and future demands. Research your video card and pay particular attention to the power supply requirements for your card listed on your video card maker's website. If not listed, check a comparable card (same graphics engine and RAM) from a different maker. The key specifications, in order of importance are:
    1. Current (amperage or amps) on the +12V rail,
    2. Efficiency,
    3. Total wattage.
    Then look for power supply brands listed under the "Good" column of PC Mechanic's PSU Reference List. Ensure the supplied amperage on the +12V rails of your chosen PSU meets the requirements of your video card. Don't try to save a few dollars by getting a cheap supply. And don't count on supplies that come included with a case. They are often underrated, budget or poor quality models "tossed in" to make the case sale. Digital electronics, including CPUs, RAM, and today's advanced graphics cards, need clean, stable power. A good, well chosen supply will provide years of service and upgrade wiggle room. I strongly recommend you pick a supply with an efficiency rating equal to, or greater than 80%. Look for the 80 Plus - EnergyStar Compliant label. And don't forget to budget for a good UPS with AVR (automatic voltage regulation), as surge and spike protectors are inadequate.

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