Hey fellas, complete n00b here

[Clab2021]

First off hi there!
Ok now I have a few questions of you dont mind. Keep in mind I know pretty much nothing about computer tech stuff.

I play Star Wars Galaxies on my PC and I really want a graphics card that will give me the true potential of the games graphics.

I am looking at buying a ATi Radeon 9600 128mb DDR I can get it for 69$

Now I have seen on here this 8x and 4x thing...how can I tell If my mobo is 8 or 4? And is this a pretty good card, or should a save more money and buy something else.
I only use my computer for gaming, and internet.
Be gentel and thanks

[Martoch]

Welcome to TechIMO!!!



What kind of PC do you have? Is it custom built or a bundled deal like a Dell or Gateway?


Once we know exactly what computer we're dealing with, we can make recommendations on which video card would be best for you...in our opinion.

There should be some sort of model/serial # on your mobo...look around and see what you can find.



Mike

[Clab2021]

Ok well I am at work and not on my computer but here goes from memory...
It is a HP pentium 4 512mb Ram...er not sure what else you want/need to know...sorry
I may be a difficult one to tackle

[Martoch]

HP is a start...now we need to get the model. I'm sure HP makes many different P4 models.


512MB RAM is a start...at least we know you have enough system memory.

[Clab2021]

Yes 512 is a minium from what I understand. And I am looking to upgrade to 1 gig. I poped it open and I belive they put two sticks of 256mb Ram in. Now I have to buy 1 gig instead of 512..grrr

Model # sorry I am at work..and have no idea what it is..Im sure that wont help at all...

[Martoch]

Originally posted by Clab2021
I poped it open and I belive they put two sticks of 256mb Ram in. Now I have to buy 1 gig instead of 512..grrr

Yep, that kinda sucks.

Post back up when you get more info...

[Clab2021]

Ok will do thanks for your time...
I was gonna hit the store and pick up that 9600 Radeon when I get off work at 6am. The store opens then and I am alittle wery of buying it now and being dissapointed. On the other hand the card is really cheap and its a one day sale thing.

[Martoch]

My honest opinion...save your $$$ and get something better.
It isn't the 9600 128 PRO is it? $69???


Here are some typical prices for that card.
http://www.mysimon.com/ATI_RADEON_96...tml?tag=lst&q=

[Clab2021]

Ok well, what would you suggest as to a card that will give me those amazing graphics that I see every one else has on there scree shots.

No its not the Pro..

[Martoch]

Amazing graphics?

How about the ATI Radeon 9800 or the GeForce FX 5900?