Thank you for being a valued part of the CNET community. As of December 1, 2020, the forums are in read-only format. In early 2021, CNET Forums will no longer be available. We are grateful for the participation and advice you have provided to one another over the years.

Thanks,

CNET Support

Resolved Question

Upgrade graphics care vs new computer

Oct 17, 2011 12:06AM PDT

I have a Dell Dimension 4600 that is about seven years old. It was running fine. I bought a Samsung B2330 monitor connected via DVI but I have issues with my old graphics card and this monitor in terms of resolution and speed. I am running XP sp3. Intel Pentium 4 3.4GHz.. The current card is a NVIDIA GeForce FX 5200. Should I simply replace the video card or is it time for a new desktop? If a new card alone is OK, I would appreciate suggestions. I do not do any high end graphics or gaming. The most intensive graphics usage is looking at medical imaging on line. Thanks in advance for your guidance.

Discussion is locked

jtydings has chosen the best answer to their question. View answer

Best Answer

- Collapse -
What about the PSU?
Oct 24, 2011 1:09AM PDT

If you don't have a decent enough Power Supply, you will also need to change that to power your new card.

I'm guessing your machine is still using Dell's weak OEM PSU.

Perhaps, if you could tell us how much you're willing to spend on the upgrade, we could recommend a PSU + GFX Card combo for your PC.

- Collapse -
Upon further review...
Oct 24, 2011 6:01AM PDT

Since originally posting this, I have tweaked the images using the latest nvidia software and the latest samsung software. I am getting better, acceptable images thought still not as good as I had hoped. My feeling is to ride this out and at some point in time replace the entire computer. This issue will not be the deciding factor as I will wait for some other fatal event to take place.

I appreciate all the help and guidance. Thanks.

- Collapse -
Answer
Slot card
Oct 17, 2011 1:26AM PDT

It would be cheaper to replace the graphics card, check around and see if you can find a PCI slot card that will support the native res of the monitor.Most box stores carry them or go to an online site such as NEW EGG and see what is available.

- Collapse -
Thanks
Oct 17, 2011 3:20AM PDT

Thanks. Does brand matter at the level I am looking? What do you think is the least expensive I can get away with? I appreciate the help.

- Collapse -
Vid cards
Oct 17, 2011 11:43PM PDT

As long as it supports the res you are looking for, there are several manufacturers, I usually shop around before I buy hdwe., look on New Egg or Zip Zoom Fly, there are other sites as well.