Do newer and faster video cards use more power

[GrantMeThePower]

I have an HTPC that is mostly used to feed my media extenders, but is used occasionally directly. I wonder if having a 7600GT card in it is drawing a lot of power even though the card isn't used much (90% of the time, the monitor is off and the computer is just running).

Anyone know?

I can't have the computer go into standby, though, because it wont record properly.

thanks.

 

[MarcVenice]

Not sure, but if it can switch between 2d and 3d mode you should put it in 2d mode, it will barely draw any power when in 2d mode and shouldn't be a problem. 7600gt doesn't draw to much power anyways though.

 

[GrantMeThePower]

Well the fan on it sure is loud! lol...louder than my stock amd fan on the cpu

 

[MarcVenice]

I've got a passively cooled 7600gs collecting dust. It doesn't draw much power, I'm guessing 50w or so tops when under load. Can't be much when not used ...

 

[GoodJob]

You can get a 65nm card. They consume less power and produce less heat. If the fan is just too loud, you can always put a Thermalright HR-3 series on it. With low and mid end cards, you shouldn't need a fan to cool it.

 

[Laminator]

Cards use less power when idle. You can check Tom's Hardware extensive low-power guide they released a few weeks ago; it basically covers everything. Also, sometimes newer/faster cards use less power than their predecessors, like the 7900-series versus the 6800-series.