Video Card Upgrade
KLGFCG:
Yeah, I know there are lots of threads on PC upgrading but I didn't want to hijack, so here's the forty millionth thread devoted to computer upgrades. With Seasons, the game has decided that it hates my graphics card. I can get around it but in the interest of avoiding future problems with new EP's, I'm going to just get a new video card. I think I know what I want: http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=8045652&st=ATI+video+card&lp=7&type=product&cp=1&id=1158316215209 Any objections or other suggestions? Also, this is my computer set-up, http://support.gateway.com/s/PC/R/4364/4364sp3.shtml Does anyone see any problems with power supply, etc. that I might encounter if I upgrade? I have a tendency to miss important tidbits so I figured I'd run it by others before going to the store tomorrow. Thanks.
KatEnigma:
Don't get it from Best Buy. The price you see is high, even on sale, and then read this They've been running a scam in-store, where they take you to what you think is the BB site, except it doesn't show sales, and then won't sell it to you at the sale price.
Get it from Newegg
But yes, I'm almost positive you'll need to replace the power supply. To check for sure, open the case and see what's written on the side of it. It should say something along the lines of "max 350w" somewhere on it.
ZiggyDoodle:
Here are the specs on that card:
System Requirements
* PCI Express™ based PC is required with one x16 lane graphics slot available on the motherboard and one additional adjacent expansion slot.
* Connection to the system power supply is required:
o 450-Watt power supply or greater, 30 Amps on 12 volt rail recommended (assumes fully loaded system)
* For CrossFire™: 550 watt power supply or greater, 38 Amps on 12 volt rail
You might check your Gateway documentation to see if you're going to need to add a card fan for additional cooling.
Neat card!
KLGFCG:
Well crap. I was hoping the power supply wouldn't need to be changed. Not to be a complete wuss here, but how difficult will it be to install a new power supply and video card? I was reasonably okay with doing the card but I don't even know where the power supply is located. I don't really have anyone who can help me (short of taking it to a store) if I screw everything up. I'm not a complete idiot (well, I guess I haven't done it yet so maybe I shouldn't make rash judgments) but I also don't want to trash my computer. Uhg.
KatEnigma:
When you open the case, it's the big block at the top with the wires coming out of it.
It's not at all hard to change the power supply. Unplug everything, taking note of where things are plugged in (generally 1 into the motherboard and then one per drive, fan, card, etc), take out 4 screws, slide it out, put the new one in, put the screws in, plug everything back in. I can almost guarantee that a stock gateway isn't going to come with a 450w power supply. You'll have 350w if you're lucky, and not having enough power will make you freeze, restart, and have all kinds of odd errors.
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