Upgrading basic desktop-need video suggestions

[Thump553]

I'm way, way out of the loop regarding videocards (think end of AGP era) and need some hand-holding.

I have a Compaq CQ5320F desktop, whose basic specs are:
-Athlon II x2 420
-3 GB DDR3 PC3-10600 memory (can handle 4 GB, 2 slots)
-integrated Nvidia GE Force 6150 SE 256 MB shared,
-one available PCI Express x1
-one available PCI Express x16
-(apparently) 230 watt PSU (from reviews, Compaq specs don't say)
-Win 7 64 bit

The box is basically fine for most my uses, but it limps on even Titan Quest with settings at low. I have a new Antec Earthwatts 430 PSU that I can put in if need be.

I don't need cutting edge but would like to be able to handle more modern games.

Considering I am a cheapskate, what is the sweet spot for upgrading the video? The box is on 24/7, and I'd like to stay away from excess heat or noise if possible.

Also, would it make sense to upgrade the memory to 4 GB (would involve junking a 1 GB module, most likely).

 

[Herald85]

What resolution do you play on?

 

[Termie]

You will be very limited by that stock power supply...you might be able to squeak by with the GT240, which is very energy-efficient and extraordinarily cheap ($50 with rebate): http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814162042

While the Ati 5570 and 5670 are better for HTPC use, the GT240 uses less power and is cheaper than either of the Ati cards, and slots between them in terms of performance: http://www.anandtech.com/show/2935/14

Regardless of your choice, it's probably best to put that 430w power supply in the computer. As for the memory, you are probably fine with 3GB. I would hold off on that upgrade. You will likely need to junk some sticks, and ram prices are quite high right now...minimum $55 for 2GB of the speed you have: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16820231150.

 

[tincart]

You can pick up a 5670 for around $90. It will destroy a 240 and is competitive in the power consumption area.

 

[toyota]

that X2 CPU is a 240 not 420 Athlon 2. the psu should be a 250watt psu with 14 amps on the 12v line. of course its very cheaply made an doesnt actually provide that much power in real world conditions. even a 5570 or 5670 would probably be pushing it for long term use.

 

[Termie]

You can pick up a 5670 for around $90. It will destroy a 240 and is competitive in the power consumption area.

Cheapest 5670 on Newegg is about $81 after rebate: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814131334

It's 60% more expensive and 20% faster than a GT240: http://www.anandtech.com/show/2935/12. Up to the OP whether that's worth it to him.

 

[Thump553]

Thanks for all the tips so far. Sounds like I will have to swap out the power supply. And yes the X2 CPU is a 240, I guess I have dyslexic fingers. Not sure waht resolution I'm playing Titan Quest in, whatever it defaulted to originally. Will check tonight.

 

[Thump553]

An update-I still haven't bought but I notice that Newegg will have a Gigabyte GEForce 9800 GT 512 MB on shellshocker today for $50 after $30 MIR (probably plus shipping). How does this compare to the reccommended cards here, and will the 430 watt PSU be able to handle this (Newegg suggests a 400 watt PSU).

Here's the link to this card:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...CDSites-_-Stickpost-_-NA-_-NA&nm_mc=ExtBanner

 

[toyota]

a 9800gt is a bit better than a gt240 and for 50 bucks is a very card. your psu will easily be fine.

EDIT: it appears that card has lower clocks like the green version but still has a 6 pin connector. hopefully it will oc because 550/1375 is a 50mhz core and 125mhz shader gimp over a normal 9800gt.

 

[Termie]

I'm going to have to stick with my original recommendation: GT240. You can now get one for $45 after rebate: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814130533

It's just slightly slower than the gimped 9800gt you're looking at, which has a bad performance/power use ratio. And it's cheaper.