[Dmartin8705]

I'm looking for some opinions on whether or not I should upgrade my current graphics card. Mostly I'd like to hear from users who were either in the same boat and upgraded to a similar card, or just somebody that has this type of card and can share some opinions with me.

Right now I have this card (7900 GT/GTO): http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814150195

and I'm considering upgrading to this (RADEON 4850): http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814121253
or
GeForce 8800GTS (G92)- http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814143119

My questions are simple; is the upgrade worth the money (meaning will it be a significant enough of a difference), if not why? And/or is there a better card out there for about the same cost. I really don't want much more on a card than this.

My basic system specs are :

3G DDR2 RAM
2.8GH(D) Intel Processor
Graphics card from above (7900 GT)
650W PSU
ASUS P5LD2 LGA 775 Intel 945P ATX Intel Motherboard

One of my biggest concerns are will the new card on my current MOBO?
I have a link to the MOBO as well: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813131538

Also, will the PCIx 2.0 be compatible with what I have? Will it hold the card back?

So, should I upgrade or stick with what I have and deal with life?

Anything else you need to know just ask, otherwise all opinions are greatly welcomed.

Thanks in advance.

[BG-0]

There's no better card for your dollar out right now, and it will work on your MB fine. It also is a big upgrade from the 7900 GT. Only concern is the CPU, is it Pentium 4? Or a dual-core? With dual-core it'd be more up to your other parts, but P4 will be quite fine too. I just built a my system with that card included and I now can run Assassin's Creed at 1280x1024 and full graphics details, shadows, and all. (with good, enjoyable FPS)

[Dmartin8705]

Its a Pentium D CPU. So, you would recommend it then and it should fit?

[BG-0]

Only your case could restrict you from fitting the card in, but I really don't think you could have one that doesn't have (at least just)enough space for it. Other thing, what brand and model is your PSU? This determines if it will work.
The only problem with this card are the default fan speeds. You'll have to manually fix them, so the card won't run 90 degrees C under load, while trying to keep the RPMs as close to 7% of max as possible. You'll find instructions for that, and it's not that hard.

[Dmartin8705]

The PSU is a TX650W from Corsair.

Also, I updated my original post, as I was told the 4850 was better, but I was also considering the 8800 GTS (G92).

[BG-0]

4850 is better than 8800 GT, GTS, or Ultra. If you just have the money(extra ten dollars or so? here 4850 are cheaper than 8800GT ), get the 4850.

[Dmartin8705]

Originally Posted by BG-0

4850 is better than 8800 GT, GTS, or Ultra. If you just have the money(extra ten dollars or so? here 4850 are cheaper than 8800GT ), get the 4850.

Ok, I'll go ahead and get an order in today as Newegg is having a weekend deal I guess (its 5 dollars off, but hey, 5 dollars is 5 dollars! ).

Thanks again for your help.

[BG-0]

Ok, good luck. Remember to remove your 7900's video drivers before putting the Radeon in, and recommendedly download drivers for it from ATI's site rather than use any CDs that might've come with the card.

[Dmartin8705]

Alright, thanks again. Seems like the card comes with software, and looks to be recommended to change the fan speeds to 50%. Does this sound adequate to you?

Last question, btw and I'll mark this as solved.

[BG-0]

Wonder what software, but anyways, I set my target fan speed to 45%, and I get 50 C idle/light use temp and around 65 after hours of gaming.

[Dmartin8705]

I think Smart Doctor, but I may have misread that somewhere. Anyway, thanks. Have a good one.