Video RAM

[cjdomer]

I have an overheating X1950 Pro 512MB GPU that I am RMA'ing. The card works just fine when not under load, but overheats badly when stressed. I live fairly close to the company's RMA location, so I am able to pick it up in person, but I have a decision to make. They do not currently have a 512MB version of the card, but they do have a 256MB version. Would I notice any difference if I downgrade to the 256MB card? I have tried to find comparisons online, but they seem to give vague answers of maybe quite often. I don't play graphically intensive games too often, but as this is an RMA, I'm not going to get the 256MB version if it would cause any noticeable changes in those games.

Rest of specs: Q6600 w/U120, 4GB Ballistix, VX550, P35-DS3R, 19" Acer Display (1280x1024 native).

 

[zerocool84]

That all depends what kind of games you play, AA enabled, and many other things. You play at a low rez but I would make them give you something comparable. Why would you want to downgrade something? Make them give you something comparable. You paid more originally for that product, why let them give you something less in return when RMA'ing?

 

[DSF]

In older games it won't matter much at all. In newer games 256MB would restrict you, but then so would an X1950 anyway.

I would tell the company that you're not happy with an inferior card. If it's a legitimate RMA it's bad business practice for them to send you a card less powerful than the one you originally owned. I'd push for the next model up. If they stick to their guns I wouldn't personally buy from them again - there are other companies with more friendly customer service.

 

[cjdomer]

Apparently I phrased my post badly. They have actually been more than helpful. I was told I could pick up a 256MB version today, if I wanted to. They simply don't have a 512MB version on hand at the moment. They have placed an order to have one shipped to them specifically for me, but I was wondering if it would make more sense for me to simply get the 256MB version now. If there would be a noticeable difference, I will just wait until they have the 512MB version in stock.

 

[DSF]

Ah, ok. How long will it be? I'd personally wait, unless you're planning on upgrading fairly soon anyway.

 

[cjdomer]

They said about two weeks.

 

[krnmastersgt]

Well considering the power of the card, I'd consider the 256mb if they gave you some cash back or something to make up for the difference. But otherwise, wait it out :beer:

 

[Denithor]

Wait it out, get the 512MB card - then sell it and buy something faster. Honestly, that's your weakest link in an otherwise kicking computer. Of course, a 22" LCD would be a great upgrade, too...

 

[cjdomer]

Yea, I was looking at that option Denithor. Rather than RMA, what about just getting a new card. I figured it was better, for the moment at least, to just keep the card and upgrade later when I have a bigger monitor (which will happen at some point soon.)

 

[0roo0roo]

how do you know its overheating badly/?

 

[mpilchfamily]

Is this an AGP or PCI-e card? If its PCI-e then it may be time to upgrade. I actually surprised that your able to RMA such an old card.

 

[cjdomer]

I know it's overheating for 2 reasons. 1) I have tracked the temp. using a couple different programs and it easily tops 110 within a few minutes of playing any intensive game. 2) If I don't shut down the program, the card will just stop sending signal to the monitor.

It is a PCI-E. I didn't think it would still be under warranty, but apparently it is, so they will honor it. I got it about 1.5 years ago for about $100. I don't really need to upgrade at this point, as I have not been hindered in any game I have tried to play. My monitor is still quite small (1280x1024 max) so there isn't much point in trying to play games at higher resolutions.

 

[Denithor]

Sapphire 3870 $90AR + FS

For most games in 12x10 this card will do a great job. Plus it will run a lot cooler than your x1950pro (even before it started overheating).

Still RMA the other card, then sell on eBay/Craigslist/whatever to recover as much of this cost as you can.