[Alex88]

Hello, I just installed GTA IV, and it runs but with enough lag to ruin the game-play. I am not sure what the frame rate is but its must be around 10-15.
My system:
Aspire M5100
AMD Phenom(tm) 8400 Triple-Core Processor
RAM 3GB
32 bit
graphics card ATI Radeon HD 2400 PRO
I don`t know if this helps but also found this under system performance:
gaming graphics -1535 MB Total available graphics memory

From looking at the system requirements of the game I would I say I am fine with everything but the graphics card. My question is, what graphics card should I get to get great if not optimum performance? If I were to get such a graphics card would that solve all my problems or are other aspects of my system lacking to handle this game?

Any help is appreciated

Cheers,

~Alex

[BG-0]

A 2.1 GHz triple-core Phenom I is also a limiting factor, easily losing to a decent dual-core... But more than that affects the graphics card, and especially the fact you're running Vista( I assume), and currently only have 1.5 GB of RAM usable for the system, of which about 1 GB goes to the game.
A balanced upgrade could be something like this... http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16817139008 + http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814161252
And yes, you do need the power supply too, the stock crap-box installed in an Acer won't run any better graphics cards. You could also go up to this, and it wouldn't be that much held back by the CPU: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814102822

[Alex88]

So then my best option is to go with the PSU and the graphics card?

[BG-0]

Yep.. That will free up the RAM from the graphics adapter you now have and will surely increase your performance otherwise too...

[Alex88]

As for the specific PSU you gave me a link to, is that my best option? or was that just a random one you like? Also will there be any compatibility issues with either one?

[BG-0]

The Corsair is very high quality while it's still affordable. Free shipping makes it pretty much the best value of power supplies I could find during today.
Compatibility issues? If the PC has room for an ATX power supply, then all will work perfectly together.

[Alex88]

Sounds great, thanks a lot for all your help.