Hello there, I am looking for a dirt cheap, Windows 7 suitable graphics card for use with a PC designed for multimedia purposes (watching films, listening to music etc). I would like to be able to use the full visual effects Windows 7 has to offer. It must have an S-video output and be compatible with the Asus M3A78-CM Motherboard. I have 1 PCI Express x 1 slot free and 2 x PCI 2.2 slots free.
Please provide some suggestions, doesn't have to be brand new.
Either that, or something like the Gadmei XGA/VGA LCD TV BOX. I want to connect my PC with the motherboard mentioned previously to my CRT TV (Panasonic TX-28PL4 Quintrix). The motherboard has onboard graphics via dvi and vga outputs. The TV has an S-VHS plug on the front, as well as RCA Audio/Video sockets. On the rear, it has 1 spare scart input.
What are your thoughts?
Please provide some suggestions, doesn't have to be brand new.
Either that, or something like the Gadmei XGA/VGA LCD TV BOX. I want to connect my PC with the motherboard mentioned previously to my CRT TV (Panasonic TX-28PL4 Quintrix). The motherboard has onboard graphics via dvi and vga outputs. The TV has an S-VHS plug on the front, as well as RCA Audio/Video sockets. On the rear, it has 1 spare scart input.
What are your thoughts?
the graphics card listed in my specs may only be 64MB, but it surprisingly runs aero.
If that seems to be not quite what you're looking for, another card I would recommend is the nvidia 8400GS. It may be 512MB, but thats about as high as it's specs go, but you will need a more powerful PSU (300W+). The 8400GS is about �30 and a vga to RCA adapter seems to be about �5 (i recommend you buy the adapter before the card).
The one in my specs just has a VGA port, but the 8400GS has vga, dvi and hdmi (i think the hdmi may need some further cabling in the case, not sure though)
NB (the card listed in my system specs may actually be the GeForce 7200GS, all system information programs tell me that it could be both and there's no sticker on it. all i know for (kinda) certain is that its 64MB
)
If that seems to be not quite what you're looking for, another card I would recommend is the nvidia 8400GS. It may be 512MB, but thats about as high as it's specs go, but you will need a more powerful PSU (300W+). The 8400GS is about �30 and a vga to RCA adapter seems to be about �5 (i recommend you buy the adapter before the card).
The one in my specs just has a VGA port, but the 8400GS has vga, dvi and hdmi (i think the hdmi may need some further cabling in the case, not sure though)
NB (the card listed in my system specs may actually be the GeForce 7200GS, all system information programs tell me that it could be both and there's no sticker on it. all i know for (kinda) certain is that its 64MB
) Hello there, thank you for your response! How does the above graphics card compare to this: Asus GeForce G210 512MB DVI VGA HDMI Out PCI-E Low.. | Ebuyer.com ?
Also, will an adapter to change connector to component/RCA video and a component/RCA video to scart block work?
Will I be able to use it for occasional gaming?
Also, will an adapter to change connector to component/RCA video and a component/RCA video to scart block work?
Will I be able to use it for occasional gaming?
yeah, that card you listed looks to have slightly better specs.
first one should, but not sure about adapter to adapter. i would say yes, but i've heard around that it may not work.
highly likely. the sims 2 plays fine on my 64MB card and runs aero and can play the sims 3 (slowly), so that 512MB card should be able to handle casual gaming with no difficulties.
first one should, but not sure about adapter to adapter. i would say yes, but i've heard around that it may not work.
highly likely. the sims 2 plays fine on my 64MB card and runs aero and can play the sims 3 (slowly), so that 512MB card should be able to handle casual gaming with no difficulties.
The card I use at this time is a Nvidia GT-220 1 Gb of memory. It's not a lot of money. I don't game so it works quite well.
Newegg.com - Computer Hardware,Video Cards & Video Devices,Desktop Graphics / Video Cards,GeForce G/GT series,GeForce GT 220
Newegg.com - Computer Hardware,Video Cards & Video Devices,Desktop Graphics / Video Cards,GeForce G/GT series,GeForce GT 220
I'm thinking s-video/tv-out output to s-video input would be best, what do you think?
Any idea which card I should pick?
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Radeon-EAH4350-PCI...d=2QXZXD5TGRMP6
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Nvidia-Geforce-860...d=2QXZXD5TGRMP6
http://www.amazon.co.uk/AXLE-GeForce-6600G...d=2QXZXD5TGRMP6
http://www.amazon.co.uk/PNY-GeForce-6200-G...d=2QXZXD5TGRMP6
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Nvidia-Geforce-860...d=2QXZXD5TGRMP6
And also, why do some appear to be more expensive for less product?
Any idea which card I should pick?
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Radeon-EAH4350-PCI...d=2QXZXD5TGRMP6
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Nvidia-Geforce-860...d=2QXZXD5TGRMP6
http://www.amazon.co.uk/AXLE-GeForce-6600G...d=2QXZXD5TGRMP6
http://www.amazon.co.uk/PNY-GeForce-6200-G...d=2QXZXD5TGRMP6
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Nvidia-Geforce-860...d=2QXZXD5TGRMP6
And also, why do some appear to be more expensive for less product?
The memory and speed they have and the company that makes them. You might find some made by BFG cheep but they are out of business so their is no warranty. If you stick with names like, Asus, Nvidia, PNY, Gigabyte you should be okay.
and AMD
(does anyone like them? They're great for multiple monitors, but that's about it)
(does anyone like them? They're great for multiple monitors, but that's about it)
Could you please advise which you would go for? It just seems strange that a 2GB GPU would cost almost the same price as a GPU with 512MB or 1GB.
Well, as I unfortunately learnt with mine, it isn't just the graphics memory that counts. My 512MB 8400GS may have just as much as the 512MB 9600GT, as can be seen here: Differences between 8400gs and 9600gt? - Yahoo! Answers (I wasn't the asked or answerer) (the 'other answers' give further depth as to why the difference)
My understanding is when you memory on you card is all used up it has to go the them memory on you m/b and slow down things like playing games a bunch. Their for more memory on you card is good and cost more normally.
I guess I need something which supports Direct X 11, like this: Gigabyte HD 5570 1GB GDDR5 PCI-E HDMI DVI-I DirectX 11 Graphics Card Retail- microdirect.co.uk ?
I am still confused about why Nvidia Geforce 8600GT 1GB GPU Nvidia Geforce 8600GT Videocard , 1024MB DDR2: Amazon.co.uk: Electronics costs more than Nvidia Geforce 8600GT 2GB GPU Nvidia Geforce 8600GT videocard with 2048MB TC DDR2 * 2GB PCI-Express , DVI, VGA , Direct X 10 , (8600 GT): Amazon.co.uk: Computers & Accessories
I am still confused about why Nvidia Geforce 8600GT 1GB GPU Nvidia Geforce 8600GT Videocard , 1024MB DDR2: Amazon.co.uk: Electronics costs more than Nvidia Geforce 8600GT 2GB GPU Nvidia Geforce 8600GT videocard with 2048MB TC DDR2 * 2GB PCI-Express , DVI, VGA , Direct X 10 , (8600 GT): Amazon.co.uk: Computers & Accessories
nvidia use a different memory architecture so adding more with a larger bus costs more to do for them.
the amount of video ram also has an effect on the maximum resolution you can run at as well as some other aspects.
all of the ati 5 series cards will do dx 11 which is a nice point to consider especially if you look at the 5450 1 gb ddr2 card fanless priced around �30
nvidia offer some nice cards as well but i would reccomend you look at their newer cards like the geforce gt 520 or similar priced around �40
the amount of video ram also has an effect on the maximum resolution you can run at as well as some other aspects.
all of the ati 5 series cards will do dx 11 which is a nice point to consider especially if you look at the 5450 1 gb ddr2 card fanless priced around �30
nvidia offer some nice cards as well but i would reccomend you look at their newer cards like the geforce gt 520 or similar priced around �40
good point 
Sheepdisease, remember to read a LOT of reviews when you get serious (as in you think that one would be a good one to go for) about picking a card - don't make the mistake I made
Sheepdisease, remember to read a LOT of reviews when you get serious (as in you think that one would be a good one to go for) about picking a card - don't make the mistake I made
I have been using amazon to look at reviews and I have found it useful.
Those cards look good, thank you for your recommendations.
I didn't think getting a suitable GPU was going to be this difficult.
These are the requirements:
Those cards look good, thank you for your recommendations.
I didn't think getting a suitable GPU was going to be this difficult.
These are the requirements:
- TV-Out (S-video, not HDMI)
- At least 1GB of GPU RAM
- Windows 7 compatible
- Direct X 11 support
- PCI-E x16
- HDMI output for later on
on the back of my 64MB graphics card, there seems to be just s-video and VGA.
I think the main problem is is that manufacturers switched to hdmi output instead, so the better (1GB+) cards around today don't have 'yesterdays' technology in them. This unfortunately means no s-video, and no VGA :'(
I'm slightly confused as to why they put hdtv/s-video on this description, but might this suit your needs?
PNY VCG981024GXEB XLR8 GeForce 9800GT 1GB DDR3 PCI-E 2.0 DVI + DVI + HDTV/S-Video Output Graphics Card - Retail Box:Amazon:Electronics
yeah, I wouldn't have thought it would be this difficult either. for example, so that i can have multiple monitors (or rather could have, since the computer in question is now dead) I wanted a relatively good PCI card, but those don't seem to be easy to come by
I think the main problem is is that manufacturers switched to hdmi output instead, so the better (1GB+) cards around today don't have 'yesterdays' technology in them. This unfortunately means no s-video, and no VGA :'(
I'm slightly confused as to why they put hdtv/s-video on this description, but might this suit your needs?
PNY VCG981024GXEB XLR8 GeForce 9800GT 1GB DDR3 PCI-E 2.0 DVI + DVI + HDTV/S-Video Output Graphics Card - Retail Box:Amazon:Electronics
yeah, I wouldn't have thought it would be this difficult either. for example, so that i can have multiple monitors (or rather could have, since the computer in question is now dead) I wanted a relatively good PCI card, but those don't seem to be easy to come by
Can't find a UK equivalent to the above suggestion.
Are there any other cards which match the criteria please?
Are there any other cards which match the criteria please?
Might I ask a question? Are you planning on gaming with this setup or is it a media center only?
My current media center graphics card is a VisionTek 4350 HD. It has 512 MB of DDR2 and DirectX 10 support. It has absolutely no problem with 1920x1080 hi-def MKV files or Blu-ray decoding connected to a Samsung 52" lcd using either DVI or HDMI. However, trying to run that hi-def signal through an analog cable (tried both VGA and S-video) gives very poor results.
So, while a card matching your requirements will indeed be a bit more future proof, it won't be utilized fully with your current tv. And when you do upgrade your monitor/tv, the resolution of even a Blu-ray movie is very little strain for even the low end of todays graphics cards.
The gist is, that as long as you're not gaming, nearly any graphics card you get will be adequate for media purposes now and in the near future.
One bit of advice, get a passively cooled card if you can, no fan = no noise. Also, the cheesy little fans on the cheap cards don't last very long. The fan on my 4350 HD died after only 3 months.
Well, after reading this to myself, it comes across as a bit of a lecture
Not meant to be, just trying to be helpful
BTW, my home theater pc is a Pentium Dual Core 2.9 GHz with 2 GB ram and running Windows 7 Home Premium with aero.
Kent
My current media center graphics card is a VisionTek 4350 HD. It has 512 MB of DDR2 and DirectX 10 support. It has absolutely no problem with 1920x1080 hi-def MKV files or Blu-ray decoding connected to a Samsung 52" lcd using either DVI or HDMI. However, trying to run that hi-def signal through an analog cable (tried both VGA and S-video) gives very poor results.
So, while a card matching your requirements will indeed be a bit more future proof, it won't be utilized fully with your current tv. And when you do upgrade your monitor/tv, the resolution of even a Blu-ray movie is very little strain for even the low end of todays graphics cards.
The gist is, that as long as you're not gaming, nearly any graphics card you get will be adequate for media purposes now and in the near future.
One bit of advice, get a passively cooled card if you can, no fan = no noise. Also, the cheesy little fans on the cheap cards don't last very long. The fan on my 4350 HD died after only 3 months.
Well, after reading this to myself, it comes across as a bit of a lecture
Not meant to be, just trying to be helpful
BTW, my home theater pc is a Pentium Dual Core 2.9 GHz with 2 GB ram and running Windows 7 Home Premium with aero.
Kent
Hello Lava King, thank you so much for your really helpful post.
I intend on using it as a media player pc but also for playing games like Counterstrike, Total War, Sims 1-3, RCT 1-3.
Any idea which card would be suitable based on all the requirements?
I intend on using it as a media player pc but also for playing games like Counterstrike, Total War, Sims 1-3, RCT 1-3.
Any idea which card would be suitable based on all the requirements?
(from my experience) with the sims 3, you'll want quite a good (at least 512MB) card for it, and you'll want a good quality card for the sims 2 (I kept getting graphical glitches such as buildings being flattened on high settings). By 'RCT', do you mean rollercoaster tycoon? If so, any card would do for that
And with the s-video problem, yeah, I'm afraid I think all manufacturers jumped onto the HDMI band wagon, which is a pain, as I'm guessing you don't want to have to buy a new TV?
And with the s-video problem, yeah, I'm afraid I think all manufacturers jumped onto the HDMI band wagon, which is a pain, as I'm guessing you don't want to have to buy a new TV?
Hello there! This is correct. I do want to play these games and do not want any lag.
I do not want to buy a new TV, I have a flat screen upstairs, but I like CRT for the picture quality on TV and games consoles (N64, PS2, Wii).
So what card would you recommend?
Thank you for all your help.
I do not want to buy a new TV, I have a flat screen upstairs, but I like CRT for the picture quality on TV and games consoles (N64, PS2, Wii).
So what card would you recommend?
Thank you for all your help.
I use this site a lot for reviews on video any thing.
Guru of 3D: PC Hardware Reviews and tests
Guru of 3D: PC Hardware Reviews and tests
this card seems to say HDMI/s-video: Newegg.com - XFX HD-435X-ZAH2 Radeon HD 4350 1GB 64-bit DDR2 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFireX Support Low Profile Ready Video Card
and this one also seems to be HDMI/s-video: Newegg.com - ZOTAC ZT-98GEY3G-FSL GeForce 9800 GT 1GB 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready SLI Support Video Card
from what I could see in the blurry nvidia card's picture, it had two dvi ports and what looked like an s-video port, but i'm afraid i'm unsure. also, the nvida's price tag made my mind melt
the first (ati) one looks like it has a circular shaped port on it, presumaably the s-video port. also, the first one seems to just have a heatsink without a noisy cheap fan. unfortunately, neither seem to support direct x 11
also, from what your timezone shows on your profile page, i'm guessing you are also not in the US. i'm afraid i've never ordered anything from newegg, so i am unsure whether they do international shipping. if they dont, you can probably find the same card on amazon or ebay.
and this one also seems to be HDMI/s-video: Newegg.com - ZOTAC ZT-98GEY3G-FSL GeForce 9800 GT 1GB 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready SLI Support Video Card
from what I could see in the blurry nvidia card's picture, it had two dvi ports and what looked like an s-video port, but i'm afraid i'm unsure. also, the nvida's price tag made my mind melt
the first (ati) one looks like it has a circular shaped port on it, presumaably the s-video port. also, the first one seems to just have a heatsink without a noisy cheap fan. unfortunately, neither seem to support direct x 11
also, from what your timezone shows on your profile page, i'm guessing you are also not in the US. i'm afraid i've never ordered anything from newegg, so i am unsure whether they do international shipping. if they dont, you can probably find the same card on amazon or ebay.
Hello! Option 1 looks good, apart from supporting DirectX 10.1 and not 11. Damn.. Any more?
i'll have another hunt. fingers crossed 
Thank you so much, I really appreciate all your help. It will be great when I can finally get it working as I wish.
Whilst you are looking, I wonder if it is worth mentioning that it may not require s-video. I know that you can get dvi/vga to hdmi cables, so maybe you can get something similar which would split into something which could connect to the TV and work?
ok. could you please list all the connections that your television has? (or rather, all usable ones. eg if you have a scart socket taken up by a set top box, then don't list it unless you think you could use a scart splitter )
) I have 1 PCI Express x 1 slot free and 2 x PCI 2.2 slots free. Currently, the motherboard has onboard graphics via dvi and vga outputs.
CRT TV (Panasonic TX-28PL4 Quintrix). The TV has an S-VHS plug on the front, as well as RCA Audio/Video sockets (three jacks). On the rear, it has 1 spare scart input.
CRT TV (Panasonic TX-28PL4 Quintrix). The TV has an S-VHS plug on the front, as well as RCA Audio/Video sockets (three jacks). On the rear, it has 1 spare scart input.
okay, thanks. i'll have a look
Thank you so much
Hello there, hope you have been enjoying the weekend! I don't suppose you have had a chance to find any suitable cards?
Sorry to be a burden, I'm just eager to get this computer up and running. I've been trying to find something suitable but to no avail.
Sorry to be a burden, I'm just eager to get this computer up and running. I've been trying to find something suitable but to no avail.
Yes, nice long weekend 
I have been looking, and haven't found anything quite as 'amazing' as you reasonably want, but I am still looking.
Thanks again for telling me the details for the connections, sorry I hadn't noticed them in your first post
I have been looking, and haven't found anything quite as 'amazing' as you reasonably want, but I am still looking.
Thanks again for telling me the details for the connections, sorry I hadn't noticed them in your first post
Hello once again. T'was a long weekend. Hope you enjoyed it. Thank you very much for your help, it is much appreciated.
from my research, I'm pretty sure the best graphics card for a CRT TV would be a s-video port on the card with an adapter for the television's port (the one from the video port from the RCA connectors)
this will only supply video though, do you have external audio?
this will only supply video though, do you have external audio?
EMS XtremeRGB HDMI, DVI, VGA, RGB Video Capture, Display, Record or Stream over LAN/WAN - Hardware
Their should be some thing on that site to help.
Their should be some thing on that site to help.
�� Quote: Originally Posted by biggles1000 
from my research, I'm pretty sure the best graphics card for a CRT TV would be a s-video port on the card with an adapter for the television's port (the one from the video port from the RCA connectors)
this will only supply video though, do you have external audio?
this will only supply video though, do you have external audio?
�� Quote: Originally Posted by Layback Bear EMS XtremeRGB HDMI, DVI, VGA, RGB Video Capture, Display, Record or Stream over LAN/WAN - Hardware
Their should be some thing on that site to help.
Their should be some thing on that site to help.
phew, that should simplify/narrow the hunting
should I hunt for just s-video cards then?
should I hunt for just s-video cards then?
Hello biggles. If you can find one which will fit the motherboard, provides s-video output and hdmi, and provides at least 1gb of ram, I think we will have won. Having said that, I have read reviews that it will be difficult to read text on tv from computer using this connection?
Thank you so much
Thank you so much
yeah, as it's a crt tv with a rather old connection, being close to it will make it hard to read text. If you are far away (typical viewing distance) from the screen, video should be ok quality, and if text is magnified it should be fine to read. Imagine PS2 or original Xbox quality. Not bad, but not to crisp.
Sounds good to me. Perhaps I may be able to find a more up-to-date CRT TV on Freecycle. What kind of connection could I look out for on a CRT TV? Would any do HDMI? Maybe VGA/DVI?
unfortunately crt tvs with hdmi don't exist because of the resolution (not enough pixels)
a DVI connector for a crt tv would only display the analogue signal (the same signal as VGA) and this seems to say that VGA isn't very good: Displaying VGA equipped PC on a CRT TV - will this work? - AVForums.com
i do understand that you probably don't want to buy a new LCD TV as your main TV, and videos and games should seem fine on it, just not text.
The problem is, LCD TVs have had a lot more work put into them. The 32" Philips TV we used to have just had two HDMI connectors, but the new 50" LG we have has a VGA port in the back, which can make a netbook seem amazing
The thread linked above does concern me with what they say about using s-video, but I'll continue searching
a DVI connector for a crt tv would only display the analogue signal (the same signal as VGA) and this seems to say that VGA isn't very good: Displaying VGA equipped PC on a CRT TV - will this work? - AVForums.com
i do understand that you probably don't want to buy a new LCD TV as your main TV, and videos and games should seem fine on it, just not text.
The problem is, LCD TVs have had a lot more work put into them. The 32" Philips TV we used to have just had two HDMI connectors, but the new 50" LG we have has a VGA port in the back, which can make a netbook seem amazing
The thread linked above does concern me with what they say about using s-video, but I'll continue searching
Hello again! When I was doing my research I found that thread and the bit about s-video concerned me too, which is why I was slightly apprehensive. It's daft really, I think the picture on a traditional CRT TV is better than LCD/Plasma TV's... Particularly displaying graphics for the Wii, N64, PS2, and Xbox (original). I would have thought if VGA showed nicely on a new TV, the same could be said for CRT?
I am particularly apprehensive about buying a new graphics card if it is not going to make a difference to my ability to display PC graphics output.
I am particularly apprehensive about buying a new graphics card if it is not going to make a difference to my ability to display PC graphics output.
yeah, I think what could be the best 'plan of action' would be if you buy a really cheap low range graphics card with an s-video port to see if it works as one would expect, rather than the concerning picture colour
Thank you biggles. Do you have any recommendations for this purpose?
from a bit of hunting, the nvidia geforce 6200 might suit this testing purpose. i'm afraid i couldn't get ebay to work properly to see the lowest prices as all my web browsers were acting up (had to do a fresh install yesterday as I couldn't cope with the constant errors any more ), but make sure to check it says s-video, and preferably a proper old one, not some new repackaged pny one or something. also, if this is just going to be for testing, no point going for one with lots of video ram (unless there is only one size, wasn't sure)
), but make sure to check it says s-video, and preferably a proper old one, not some new repackaged pny one or something. also, if this is just going to be for testing, no point going for one with lots of video ram (unless there is only one size, wasn't sure) Alright, how about this one? Nvidia GeForce 6200TC DDR TV DVI PCI-E - Silent TESTED | eBay UK
yeah, that looks like a great price and has an s-video port. remember, it probably isn't best to stick with the 6200 as your final one, as turbo caching isn't really that great (unless you have a lot of RAM) but hopefully it will give us an idea whether s-video will work well.
Fantastic. Bought it, along with 3m svideo cable. Now let's play the waiting game.
yup
let's hope it arrives soon
let's hope it arrives soon
Hello there. It arrived today. I installed it, connected the s-video to s-video cable from the computer to the tv and got nothing. I tried another lead I have, s-video to scart. That worked during the post screens of Linux (operating system I already have installed) booting up (picture quality was quite bad).
When the computer loaded up the desktop, the TV had strange blocks of colour. I tried adjusting the screen resolution to the smallest I could and the lowest refresh rate, but unfortunately that didn't make a difference.
When the computer loaded up the desktop, the TV had strange blocks of colour. I tried adjusting the screen resolution to the smallest I could and the lowest refresh rate, but unfortunately that didn't make a difference.
oh dear 
is it possible you could check with a windows 7 install? from my experiences with linux, i've always found graphics settings a problem, but that could just be because i used awful six year old hardware
i hope the blotches aren't the issue from the rather concerning thread :S
was the quality extremely poor? (ie bearable from a typical viewing distance)
is it possible you could check with a windows 7 install? from my experiences with linux, i've always found graphics settings a problem, but that could just be because i used awful six year old hardware
i hope the blotches aren't the issue from the rather concerning thread :S
was the quality extremely poor? (ie bearable from a typical viewing distance)
Hello there, it seems your suspicions were correct. I have Windows 7 running nicely. Picture quality is fairly poor. Big improvement on before, but normal text is impossible to read. I think there is a problem with the TV too, as the picture isn't square, it is warped in the left and right corners.
Windows 7 was able to automatically work out what resolution and refresh rate to use to display on the CRT TV.
I've got the TV running alongside a standard LCD pc monitor at the moment, but the idea is to do away with the monitor. At the moment I have both displaying the same thing.
I am still looking out for any flat screen crt tv's with a screen size of 26" or greater (to match or supersede what we have already) on freecycle. I wonder how much difference this would make.
Windows 7 was able to automatically work out what resolution and refresh rate to use to display on the CRT TV.
I've got the TV running alongside a standard LCD pc monitor at the moment, but the idea is to do away with the monitor. At the moment I have both displaying the same thing.
I am still looking out for any flat screen crt tv's with a screen size of 26" or greater (to match or supersede what we have already) on freecycle. I wonder how much difference this would make.
is it warped in th corners because of the curve of the screen? (or it working out there may be a curve and being wrong). Yeah, the problem with CRTs is that, well, they're CRTs :P There are some pretty awesome CRT TVs in existence, but because of the imprecision, you'll never get one as crisp as an LCD TV :/
another problem could be because the only possible connection between a CRT TV and a PC is s-video, which isn't too great :/
would've been nice if some companies had stuck around and continued improving the 'old' style of television
another problem could be because the only possible connection between a CRT TV and a PC is s-video, which isn't too great :/
would've been nice if some companies had stuck around and continued improving the 'old' style of television
�� Quote: Originally Posted by biggles1000 is it warped in th corners because of the curve of the screen? (or it working out there may be a curve and being wrong). Yeah, the problem with CRTs is that, well, they're CRTs :P There are some pretty awesome CRT TVs in existence, but because of the imprecision, you'll never get one as crisp as an LCD TV :/
another problem could be because the only possible connection between a CRT TV and a PC is s-video, which isn't too great :/
would've been nice if some companies had stuck around and continued improving the 'old' style of television
another problem could be because the only possible connection between a CRT TV and a PC is s-video, which isn't too great :/
would've been nice if some companies had stuck around and continued improving the 'old' style of television
odd :/
i was just thinking about CRT TVs, and it occured to me that maybe if the screen was bigger and the same resolution used, it might be sharper (but i guess that depends on quite how bigger CRT TVs work and how great the s-video quality can be)
i was just thinking about CRT TVs, and it occured to me that maybe if the screen was bigger and the same resolution used, it might be sharper (but i guess that depends on quite how bigger CRT TVs work and how great the s-video quality can be)
Hello again. Thank you for your continued help!
Another TV might have better connectivity options too!
Another TV might have better connectivity options too!
no problem, always glad to help
true, that could be a bonus
true, that could be a bonus
Damn, I give up. I am going out to see if this LCD TV is available today: Samsung LE32C530 | 32 inch LCD TV 1080p HD Ready Freeview | Richer Sounds
I suppose my next questoni,which Grahics Card should I get now which will allow me to play the games I want such as Sims 3, Rollercaster Tycoon, Total War series (full detail) at a reasonable price. I still want the usual monitor connection output, but no longer need s-video and can go for something which HDMI out instead.
Look forward to hearing from you.
I suppose my next questoni,which Grahics Card should I get now which will allow me to play the games I want such as Sims 3, Rollercaster Tycoon, Total War series (full detail) at a reasonable price. I still want the usual monitor connection output, but no longer need s-video and can go for something which HDMI out instead.
Look forward to hearing from you.
Also, at present I have Corsair TwinX 2GB DDR2 6400 C4 (2GB of RAM overall). Would you suggest I upgrade for improved gmeplay and watching media? If yes, please recommend a few possibilities.
Motherboard details for RAM:
Dual-channel memory architecture
4 x 240-pin DIMM slots support unbuffered ECC and non-ECC DDR2 1066/800/667/533MHz memory modules
Supports up to 8GB system memory
Due to AMD+ CPU limitation, only one DDR2 1066 DIMM is supported per channel. When four DDR2 1066 DIMMs are installed, all DIMMs run at 800MHz frequency by default for system stability.
I am running Windows 7 Professional Edition (32 bit) and AMD Athlon(tm) Dual Core Processor 5050e.
Motherboard details for RAM:
Dual-channel memory architecture
4 x 240-pin DIMM slots support unbuffered ECC and non-ECC DDR2 1066/800/667/533MHz memory modules
Supports up to 8GB system memory
Due to AMD+ CPU limitation, only one DDR2 1066 DIMM is supported per channel. When four DDR2 1066 DIMMs are installed, all DIMMs run at 800MHz frequency by default for system stability.
I am running Windows 7 Professional Edition (32 bit) and AMD Athlon(tm) Dual Core Processor 5050e.
yeah, an LCD should have better picture quality
I originally thought that HDMI connection with a graphics card was easy, but when reading the instruction manual for my 8400GS, there seemed to be an extra connection that needed making with the motherboard for HDMI to work. However, I hope that that was just that card needing it.
Onto the RAM, the computer I had that died had 2GB RAM, a 64MB graphics card (that seemed to be a huge fluke of a card, as it could support aero and the sims 3 despite only being 64MB) and a single core 3.06GHz Intel Celeron D (known to be an awful processor). It managed to run the sims 2 fine (well, on the highest settings it was a bit slow and buildings flickered going flat), was fine at running rollercoaster tycoon 2 and 3 and could run the sims 3 on rather low settings without a speed problem. It wasn't great at playing 720p HD videos in VLC (no audio for first five seconds and often juttery playback, however the laptop in my specs plays 720p video in vlc perfectly, so i'm guessing it was just the card) but it ran XBMC quite well (slow at bits, but playback etc was fine). It was also quite slow with WMC.
Unfortunately, I never managed to try my 512MB 8400GS as my case wasn't long enough to fit a more powerful PSU in without sacrificing the optical drive. I did try, but the fan on the graphics card didn't run, it got incredibly hot and was stuck in an awfully small (600x800) resolution.
This means that I never really got to find out how much graphical load a better card could take away, so I'm not fully sure about if 2GB of RAM would be enough. It seemed that it would be, as a friend of mine has a 2GB machine with an intel graphics chip that was better at running games.
So, I would suggest that we find a good graphics card for you, one that's reasonably priced and has a decent amount of video RAM (I guess 1GB to 1.5GB) and then see how the machine copes. If it doesn't perform as well as you hope, then adding another GB of RAM shouldn't hurt
I originally thought that HDMI connection with a graphics card was easy, but when reading the instruction manual for my 8400GS, there seemed to be an extra connection that needed making with the motherboard for HDMI to work. However, I hope that that was just that card needing it.
Onto the RAM, the computer I had that died had 2GB RAM, a 64MB graphics card (that seemed to be a huge fluke of a card, as it could support aero and the sims 3 despite only being 64MB) and a single core 3.06GHz Intel Celeron D (known to be an awful processor
). It managed to run the sims 2 fine (well, on the highest settings it was a bit slow and buildings flickered going flat), was fine at running rollercoaster tycoon 2 and 3 and could run the sims 3 on rather low settings without a speed problem. It wasn't great at playing 720p HD videos in VLC (no audio for first five seconds and often juttery playback, however the laptop in my specs plays 720p video in vlc perfectly, so i'm guessing it was just the card) but it ran XBMC quite well (slow at bits, but playback etc was fine). It was also quite slow with WMC.Unfortunately, I never managed to try my 512MB 8400GS as my case wasn't long enough to fit a more powerful PSU in without sacrificing the optical drive
. I did try, but the fan on the graphics card didn't run, it got incredibly hot and was stuck in an awfully small (600x800) resolution.This means that I never really got to find out how much graphical load a better card could take away, so I'm not fully sure about if 2GB of RAM would be enough. It seemed that it would be, as a friend of mine has a 2GB machine with an intel graphics chip that was better at running games.
So, I would suggest that we find a good graphics card for you, one that's reasonably priced and has a decent amount of video RAM (I guess 1GB to 1.5GB) and then see how the machine copes. If it doesn't perform as well as you hope, then adding another GB of RAM shouldn't hurt
Funnily enough, I was having problems watching TV in Windows Media Centre and tried loads of different things to sort it out. Thought it was the aerial, so got out a beast and tried that to no avail.
Then started looking aroun the internet and found the solution was to adjust visual effects to run for performance, which has meant going back to XP-esque graphics unfortunately (no aero). This did resolve the jittery playback, but certainly makes me reconsider the importance of a more powerful GPU (although it could be a combination of GPU/RAM)
Unfortunately, I am running a 400W PSU at the moment so I'm not sure what kind of GPU it will take.
What are your initial thoughts about the most appropriate GPU and whether RAM might also make the difference here?
Then started looking aroun the internet and found the solution was to adjust visual effects to run for performance, which has meant going back to XP-esque graphics unfortunately (no aero). This did resolve the jittery playback, but certainly makes me reconsider the importance of a more powerful GPU (although it could be a combination of GPU/RAM)
Unfortunately, I am running a 400W PSU at the moment so I'm not sure what kind of GPU it will take.
What are your initial thoughts about the most appropriate GPU and whether RAM might also make the difference here?
I think a ram upgrade would help the operation of your entire system. I don't know what graphics you are using now but this card is not overly expensive for a GPU card and will play most any game out there,
Sapphire Radeon HD 5830. You'll have to investigate the power requirements.
Sapphire Radeon HD 5830. You'll have to investigate the power requirements.
Hello there, thank you very much for your response. Unfortunately, I couldn't find a seller in the UK. Furthermore, I couldn't find the power requirements. It looks like rather a big card, which I am unsure would fit within the confines of the case I have?
Also, any ideas about the best offers on suitable RAM?
Also, any ideas about the best offers on suitable RAM?
The manual for your HP would be the best place to look for the type of ram for your particular Motherboard, if you don't have it you can surely download a copy from HP website.
The Sapphire is quite a long card I think around 101/2 inches. It is difficult to find because Sapphire is dumping their 5000 serise cards. Why it is cheap though.
I don't know where to look in the UK. But perhaps you can find a card here and look it up in the UK. The 5770 is a fairly good card. The one I have pulls 75W on full power I'm told. and they are not usually as big. Read the feedback section for some good info.
The Sapphire is quite a long card I think around 101/2 inches. It is difficult to find because Sapphire is dumping their 5000 serise cards. Why it is cheap though.
I don't know where to look in the UK. But perhaps you can find a card here and look it up in the UK. The 5770 is a fairly good card. The one I have pulls 75W on full power I'm told. and they are not usually as big. Read the feedback section for some good info.
Further suggestion. I don't know about HP, but I have a dell. I can look up my computer on their website and search for upgrades. They will usually show you ram of several types. Pay attention to the frequency, voltage and timings. You can usually go find the exact thing for much less elsewhere. Or, the easy way is download the crucial advisor. Click on scan my computer. you will usually have to download a small program. It will tell you what you have now and recommend several options to choose from. They are good to deal with and have good ram.
the 512MB graphics card with HDMI and a fan that I had said in the manual "minimum 300W PSU". My PSU was the original one from 2001, which could only supply 180W
I think 400W will be fine in most cases, unless a seriously powerful huge graphics card is found
I think 400W will be fine in most cases, unless a seriously powerful huge graphics card is found
Hello Essenbe, thank you for your reply. I did quote the specs of my computer, with particular reference to RAM and CPU. I am unsure where you gathered my computer was built by HP? I built it myself, so there isn't an upgrade service available... Problem with building computers (unless you do it on a daily basis or frequently) is that technology changes so quickly and just when you think you understand the best hardware, it changes! Also, finding the right power/price ratio is difficult.
Biggles, sounds as though you have been rather lucky! Don't suppose you have had any luck finding a GPU?
�� Quote: Originally Posted by Sheepdisease
Biggles, sounds as though you have been rather lucky! Don't suppose you have had any luck finding a GPU?
�� Quote: Originally Posted by Sheepdisease Also, at present I have Corsair TwinX 2GB DDR2 6400 C4 (2GB of RAM overall). Would you suggest I upgrade for improved gmeplay and watching media? If yes, please recommend a few possibilities.
Motherboard details for RAM:
Dual-channel memory architecture
4 x 240-pin DIMM slots support unbuffered ECC and non-ECC DDR2 1066/800/667/533MHz memory modules
Supports up to 8GB system memory
Due to AMD+ CPU limitation, only one DDR2 1066 DIMM is supported per channel. When four DDR2 1066 DIMMs are installed, all DIMMs run at 800MHz frequency by default for system stability.
I am running Windows 7 Professional Edition (32 bit) and AMD Athlon(tm) Dual Core Processor 5050e.
Motherboard details for RAM:
Dual-channel memory architecture
4 x 240-pin DIMM slots support unbuffered ECC and non-ECC DDR2 1066/800/667/533MHz memory modules
Supports up to 8GB system memory
Due to AMD+ CPU limitation, only one DDR2 1066 DIMM is supported per channel. When four DDR2 1066 DIMMs are installed, all DIMMs run at 800MHz frequency by default for system stability.
I am running Windows 7 Professional Edition (32 bit) and AMD Athlon(tm) Dual Core Processor 5050e.
I made the faulty assumption because your system specs say it is an HP 530. If you built it yourself your motherboard manual would be the best place to learn the ram it will accept. The website of your motherboard should have a QVL, (qualified vendors list) of the types of ram they have tested that will be compatible with your board. Technology does change pretty quickly. It makes it difficult for all of us who don't have the time to read constantly. Again I am sorry About thinking you had an HP. But that is why it is important to fill out your system specs as much as possible. It does help if we know what motherboard you have in order to suggest ram. There may be better choices but more of exactly what you have now would help. I would also recommend that all the ram be exactly the same. It can be made to work, but matched ram usually avoids any problems.
I use G Skill ram. I have had experience with their tech support and they are the absolute best. There are other good companies, Corsair is one of them. I would suggest buying from a well known company with a proven track record. Quality is important.
I use G Skill ram. I have had experience with their tech support and they are the absolute best. There are other good companies, Corsair is one of them. I would suggest buying from a well known company with a proven track record. Quality is important.
Hello Essenbe, apologies if I came across snappy! The system specs are confused because we have several computers in the house and for a long time I was using my partner's laptop (HP 530).
The acceptable RAM is listed in two posts, the most recent one is above. I realise it would be better to replace the current RAM with a higher spec and remove the older stuff to get the best effect.
The acceptable RAM is listed in two posts, the most recent one is above. I realise it would be better to replace the current RAM with a higher spec and remove the older stuff to get the best effect.
No problem, but yes it is important that all of the ram match. I guess it depends on money, but others will disagree, but I prefer the fastest ram my motherboard will take. I just feel that it gives you a better chance of the best performance. You should see a difference in 4GB. With nothing open look at your installed ram and useable ram. I would guess that windows is using about half of your current ram just to run. That does no leave much for you to use on other applications and games. Just as an example. I have 8GB of DDR3-1866 ram. Windows is using about 1600MB (about 1.5GB) which leaves me about 6.5GB to use. If you have integrated graphics it is much worse.
See if this will wotk.
Corsair Twin2X4096-6400C5 It is about $65 US.I think that is pretty much the same as you are using now, just larger size.
Corsair Twin2X4096-6400C5 It is about $65 US.I think that is pretty much the same as you are using now, just larger size.
Okay, and what about alternative GPUs?
I'll look into some. Just to be clear before I set out on my expedition across the interwebs , it's PCI-E, right?? oh, and how much video RAM is optimal? (given what you said you want it for, sims and rollercoaster tycoon etc., 1GB will probably be fine)
, it's PCI-E, right?? oh, and how much video RAM is optimal? (given what you said you want it for, sims and rollercoaster tycoon etc., 1GB will probably be fine) Hello again friend! It needs to be PCI-E and powerful enough to run the Total War games on highest settings smoothly.
Having looked at the system specs for Shogun 2 Total War: Shogun 2: Total War System Requirements - PC Game Shogun 2: Total War requirements
I think I am going to need to replace my Athlon 5050e Dual Core with something like
AMD Athlon II X3 450 3.2GHz Socket AM3 95w 1.5MB L2 Cache (AMD Athlon II X3 450 3.2GHz Socket AM3 95w 1.5MB L2.. | Ebuyer.com), which I believe is compatible with my Motherboard: Asus M3A78-CM Motherboard User Manual
I still need to know which GPU is going to be suitable? I want to play using highest settings.
Recommended system requirements:
Corsair TWIN2X4096-6400C5C 4GB 800MHz C5 DDR2 Memory Kit
I think I am going to need to replace my Athlon 5050e Dual Core with something like
AMD Athlon II X3 450 3.2GHz Socket AM3 95w 1.5MB L2 Cache (AMD Athlon II X3 450 3.2GHz Socket AM3 95w 1.5MB L2.. | Ebuyer.com), which I believe is compatible with my Motherboard: Asus M3A78-CM Motherboard User Manual
I still need to know which GPU is going to be suitable? I want to play using highest settings.
Recommended system requirements:
- 2nd Generation Intel� Core�i5 processor (or greater), or AMD equivalent
- 2GB RAM (XP), 4GB RAM (Vista / Windows7)
- AMD Radeon HD 5000 and 6000 series graphics cards or equivalent DirectX 11 compatible graphics card
Corsair TWIN2X4096-6400C5C 4GB 800MHz C5 DDR2 Memory Kit Hello there, any ideas?
yeah, those are some pretty high system requirements for that game :S
so will you now have 6GB of RAM?
I think I'd better start searching higher for graphics cards with 1.5GB of VRAM, if not 2GB. At least there are more of those with HDMI than there were s-video ones
also, which would you prefer primarily, ATI or nvidia? (eg. if there are two identical-ish spec cards)
so will you now have 6GB of RAM?
I think I'd better start searching higher for graphics cards with 1.5GB of VRAM, if not 2GB. At least there are more of those with HDMI than there were s-video ones
also, which would you prefer primarily, ATI or nvidia? (eg. if there are two identical-ish spec cards)
�� Quote: Originally Posted by Sheepdisease ... I am looking for a dirt cheap, Windows 7 suitable graphics card for use with a PC designed for multimedia purposes (watching films, listening to music etc). I would like to be able to use the full visual effects Windows 7 has to offer
�� Quote: Originally Posted by Sheepdisease Having looked at the system specs for Shogun 2 Total War: Shogun 2: Total War System Requirements - PC Game Shogun 2: Total War requirements
I think I am going to need to replace my Athlon 5050e Dual Core with something like
AMD Athlon II X3 450 3.2GHz Socket AM3 95w 1.5MB L2 Cache (AMD Athlon II X3 450 3.2GHz Socket AM3 95w 1.5MB L2.. | Ebuyer.com), which I believe is compatible with my Motherboard: Asus M3A78-CM Motherboard User Manual
I still need to know which GPU is going to be suitable? I want to play using highest settings.
Recommended system requirements:
Corsair TWIN2X4096-6400C5C 4GB 800MHz C5 DDR2 Memory Kit
I think I am going to need to replace my Athlon 5050e Dual Core with something like
AMD Athlon II X3 450 3.2GHz Socket AM3 95w 1.5MB L2 Cache (AMD Athlon II X3 450 3.2GHz Socket AM3 95w 1.5MB L2.. | Ebuyer.com), which I believe is compatible with my Motherboard: Asus M3A78-CM Motherboard User Manual
I still need to know which GPU is going to be suitable? I want to play using highest settings.
Recommended system requirements:
- 2nd Generation Intel� Core�i5 processor (or greater), or AMD equivalent
- 2GB RAM (XP), 4GB RAM (Vista / Windows7)
- AMD Radeon HD 5000 and 6000 series graphics cards or equivalent DirectX 11 compatible graphics card
Corsair TWIN2X4096-6400C5C 4GB 800MHz C5 DDR2 Memory Kit I'm not sure what you are trying to do. Are you looking to build a new system? As far as those system requirements, there is not an AMD chip thst is equivalent to a 2nd gen. core i5. I have an i5-2500K and came from a PH ii x6. So I have some experience. In 2 weeks rumor has it that Bulldozer is coming out. Wait and see what it is like. With the requirements you listed, you will need a new board to meet them. And bottom line is a 5770 I think. Or look at the 6000 serise for the future. I don't know your budget, but you can get a 6870 for 200.00 US. There are some 5870 cards that are probably better, but it will cost 300-500 US for those. If you are trying to match those specs or come close, I don't think an Athlon will do it. You will need to at least get into the Phenom ii range. Just my opinion.
yeah, good point about the Athlon. Don't touch it nowadays if you want to play decent games well
I think the Athlon is on its way out. Look at the deals right now on all AMD chips. I think they are trying to clear them out for the new Bulldozer. For the first time since it's release you can find 1090T chips for under 200. But for performance, why buy it? The 2500K is 229 and some of the new MB are pretty reasonable.
Argh! Right.. Just as I thought I was getting the hang of the required hardware, it all changes! That is so typical of PC hardware!
Let me get this straight, it is the AMD Athlon series which shouldn't be touched? Not AMD in general?
Could you please keep this thread updated as you get news with regards to these new pieces of hardware coming out?
Could you please compile a provisional list of the new hardware I need, kind of like the one I did?
Let me get this straight, it is the AMD Athlon series which shouldn't be touched? Not AMD in general?
Could you please keep this thread updated as you get news with regards to these new pieces of hardware coming out?
Could you please compile a provisional list of the new hardware I need, kind of like the one I did?
These are the requirements you gave us. In order to meet those requirements, you are talking about building a new computer. A 2nd generation core 15 or AMD equivelant. There is no AMD equivelant right now. You can play games on higher settings with some PhenomII chips, but for price vs. performance you can't beat the new intel chips. To give you an example, a Phenom ii x6 1090T is about $200 US. An i5-2500K is $229 US. I personally don't believe that a 1090T can match an i5 in anything except maybe heavy multithreaded applications, which games are not. Few games will use 4 cores. I had a 1055T rig before this one. It could not compare to my i5-2500K. That is my only point, for the price you pay and what you get for it. A good PHiix4 can play most games well with a good graphics card.
The choice is yours and you gave us the requirements you wanted. Do you want to do the best you can with what you have or do you want to meet the requirements and build a new computer. Assuming you use the hard drives in your computer and other things, you will need at least a new Motherboard, CPU, ram and cpu cooler. You tell us what you want to do.
�� Quote: Originally Posted by Sheepdisease ... Could you please keep this thread updated as you get news with regards to these new pieces of hardware coming out?
Could you please compile a provisional list of the new hardware I need, kind of like the one I did?
Could you please compile a provisional list of the new hardware I need, kind of like the one I did?
I don't mind getting my hands dirty.
It has become apparent since using the media centre PC in the lounge that I much prefer to use that than the PC in the study. Since I bought a new Samsung 32" Full HD TV and hooked it up to the PC, I am going to need some better hardware caoable of displaying higher resolutions, particularly when playing games.
When I first put the PC in the lounge, I planned to use it purely to watch TV, record programmes etc. Now it has become much more central and I want to use it for everything, including gaming.
I have a dedicated Yamaha amplifier and speakers hooked up for the full experience, with all the kinds of connections you could require (including HDMI).
Granted, I am looking at getting a new motherboard, CPU, GPU and possibly PSU.
It has become apparent since using the media centre PC in the lounge that I much prefer to use that than the PC in the study. Since I bought a new Samsung 32" Full HD TV and hooked it up to the PC, I am going to need some better hardware caoable of displaying higher resolutions, particularly when playing games.
When I first put the PC in the lounge, I planned to use it purely to watch TV, record programmes etc. Now it has become much more central and I want to use it for everything, including gaming.
I have a dedicated Yamaha amplifier and speakers hooked up for the full experience, with all the kinds of connections you could require (including HDMI).
Granted, I am looking at getting a new motherboard, CPU, GPU and possibly PSU.
A gaming card capable of delivering smooth play at 1920x1080 is going to be considerably louder than what you can get away with in an htpc: fanless. That's just something to consider since you have 2 rooms.
If you're going to use the Yamaha, then do it right and set up Bitstreaming. It's a bit complicated, more so if you want to Bitstream within Media Center, but it's well worth it. There's nothing like seeing your receiver light up with TrueHD or DTS-HD MA.
... but, really, until we get a budget, this is all a pipe dream.
If you're going to use the Yamaha, then do it right and set up Bitstreaming. It's a bit complicated, more so if you want to Bitstream within Media Center, but it's well worth it. There's nothing like seeing your receiver light up with TrueHD or DTS-HD MA.
... but, really, until we get a budget, this is all a pipe dream.
To be honest, I think the budget will depend on what I can swap/sell.
Currently, my other PC contains (copied from various invoices):
Currently, my other PC contains (copied from various invoices):
�27.90 2x Akasa AK-FN057 Apache 12cm Fan 
�14.20 StarTech.com Black Value ATA133 Drive Drawer with Shock Absorbers - �5.10 All in 1 Internal Card Reader Plus One USB2.0 Port Black - 3.5" Bay 108453
- �40.32 2 x LiteOn 20X SATA DVD�RW/RAM With Beige, Black & Silver Bezel + Nero - Retail 127442
- �80.90 Corsair 620W HX Modular PSU - ATX12V v2.2 APFC 114941
- �75.67 Creative X-Fi Xtreme Gamer Soundcard - Fatal1ty Professional Series 126185
- �83.27 ASUS P5K-E/WIFI-AP AiLifestyle Series P35 Socket 775 Socket eSATA 8 channel Audio ATX Motherboard 129126 (ALTHOUGH IT LOOKS AS THOUGH THE MOTHERBOARD INSTALLED IS �103.13 Asus P5Q Deluxe P45 Socket 775 8 Channel Audio ATX Motherboard 145748)
- �284.87 Intel Core 2 Quad Q6700 2.66GHz 1066MHz FSB Socket 775 8MB L2 Cache (2 x 4MB (4MB per core pair)) Retail Boxed Processor 130475 (with
�36.95 K�hler CPU Zalman CNPS 9700 NT 754/775/939/940/AM2 acting as cooler)
- �301.91 BFG 8800GTX OC2 768MB GDDR3 Dual DVI HDTV Out HDCP enabled PCI-E Graphics Card 131671 (with �23.37 THERMALRIGHT HR-03 PLUS 90MM and �2.93 Xigmatek XSF-F9251 92mm Fan attached) - is very big and needs to be housed in a case like the �128.80 Thermaltake Kandalf VD4000BWS LCS No PSU - which I have since removed the front panel (doors) and liquid cooling system and replaced it with fans, as the idea was a liquid cooling system would be quieter, but uses fans too and there is the expense of the liquid)
- �59.28 Corsair Memory XMS2 4GB DDR2 PC2-6400 (800) Dual Channel Desktop
- �74.99 Acer V173Ab 17 inch LCD Monitor / Black (PC Shop)
- �319.99 Samsung S86 Series 22 inch LE22S86BD HD Ready Freeview Widescreen LCD TV (Electronics)
Just for your reference, the case I am keeping for the Media Centre is Cooler Master Dominator 690 PC Case With Window / Black (PC Shop).
I appreciate I would have to purchase the items before I could consider selling old components, but is there anything worth transferring to the new media centre? Would the sound card be any good for bitstreaming (I did try to find out more but didn't have much luck - I was looking mainly on AVForums). DVD drives, HDD caddy and other peripherals will obviously be useful.
What are your thoughts?
I appreciate I would have to purchase the items before I could consider selling old components, but is there anything worth transferring to the new media centre? Would the sound card be any good for bitstreaming (I did try to find out more but didn't have much luck - I was looking mainly on AVForums). DVD drives, HDD caddy and other peripherals will obviously be useful.
What are your thoughts?
No, a sound card isn't going to help you Bitstream. Bitstreaming is passing all audio through the PC to the receiver. Basically, the receiver becomes the sound card.
Guide: Setting Up Bitstreaming With Your Windows 7 HTPC � PART I
You can't do it with a sound card, optical cables don't have enough bandwidth and even first generation hdmi cables aren't sufficient to handle master audio tracks. You'll need hdmi 2, aka hi-speed hdmi cables. In the docs it will specify that they're able to handle TrueHD and DTS-HD MA... as well as uncompressed PCM streams.
Guide: Setting Up Bitstreaming With Your Windows 7 HTPC � PART I
You can't do it with a sound card, optical cables don't have enough bandwidth and even first generation hdmi cables aren't sufficient to handle master audio tracks. You'll need hdmi 2, aka hi-speed hdmi cables. In the docs it will specify that they're able to handle TrueHD and DTS-HD MA... as well as uncompressed PCM streams.
That is sweet! Audio through GPU. My Yamaha DSP-AX863SE can output Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD.
Will this impact on my choice of GPU or is this something which should be available from the Motherboard (and would thus affect choice of motherboard)?
Doesn't look too difficult on the software front. There is a lot of detail about the software, but not much about hardware required from what I gathered.
Will this impact on my choice of GPU or is this something which should be available from the Motherboard (and would thus affect choice of motherboard)?
Doesn't look too difficult on the software front. There is a lot of detail about the software, but not much about hardware required from what I gathered.
Up until recently you could only Bitstream with ATI/AMD. I don't know which nVidia cards are now able to pass through audio, but if you're in the market, this would be the place where you roll up your sleeves and get dirty.
I use an AMD to Bitstream.
HOW TO GET: Uncompressed PCM, Dolby TrueHD & Dts-HD MASTER Audio - Blu-ray Forum
High-Def FAQ: Blu-ray and HD DVD Audio Explained | High-Def Digest
I use an AMD to Bitstream.
HOW TO GET: Uncompressed PCM, Dolby TrueHD & Dts-HD MASTER Audio - Blu-ray Forum
High-Def FAQ: Blu-ray and HD DVD Audio Explained | High-Def Digest
Ah, thank you! I will certainly look into that once the hardware has been decided.
Do you have any thoughts about some of my existing hardware, parricularly regarding how useful it would be in the Media Centre? I'm thinking a budger of around �300 at the moment. This really does depend on how well this will suit the needs addressed most recently in relation to sound quality and performance for gaming.
Do you have any thoughts about some of my existing hardware, parricularly regarding how useful it would be in the Media Centre? I'm thinking a budger of around �300 at the moment. This really does depend on how well this will suit the needs addressed most recently in relation to sound quality and performance for gaming.
�� Quote: Originally Posted by Sheepdisease Ah, thank you! I will certainly look into that once the hardware has been decided.
Do you have any thoughts about some of my existing hardware, parricularly regarding how useful it would be in the Media Centre? I'm thinking a budger of around �300 at the moment. This really does depend on how well this will suit the needs addressed most recently in relation to sound quality and performance for gaming.
Do you have any thoughts about some of my existing hardware, parricularly regarding how useful it would be in the Media Centre? I'm thinking a budger of around �300 at the moment. This really does depend on how well this will suit the needs addressed most recently in relation to sound quality and performance for gaming.
As for you old rig... what are you going to do with it?
I don't know anything about the media center part, but for the specs you listed for gaming, I don't think you can match them for 300 pounds.
�� Quote: Originally Posted by Fumz �� Quote: Originally Posted by Sheepdisease Ah, thank you! I will certainly look into that once the hardware has been decided.
Do you have any thoughts about some of my existing hardware, parricularly regarding how useful it would be in the Media Centre? I'm thinking a budger of around �300 at the moment. This really does depend on how well this will suit the needs addressed most recently in relation to sound quality and performance for gaming.
Do you have any thoughts about some of my existing hardware, parricularly regarding how useful it would be in the Media Centre? I'm thinking a budger of around �300 at the moment. This really does depend on how well this will suit the needs addressed most recently in relation to sound quality and performance for gaming.
As for you old rig... what are you going to do with it?
I did mean that I wanted hardware which would suit my uses (regarding media centre and gaming).
I'd use the cpu, motherboard, psu, ram, hdd, and dvd for the media center, and add to it a cheap $50.00 fanless Radeon 6450, set up Bitstreaming and call it a day. As for gaming, you have another machine/room to do that... and there I'd build my gaming setup.
Gaming while sitting on the sofa sounds like a great idea... but on the PC that's going to be problematic. Wireless keyboards and mice suck when it comes to gaming. Lack of support outside your lap also cuts down on the precision.
Gaming while sitting on the sofa sounds like a great idea... but on the PC that's going to be problematic. Wireless keyboards and mice suck when it comes to gaming. Lack of support outside your lap also cuts down on the precision.
Hello there Fumz, I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for all your help and patience. I realise I have been vague at times and possibily boarderline ignorant other times.
Unfortunately, keeping the other PC in another room is not an option. The missus likes the idea having a free room to use for other things. I'm still serious about getting a gaming PC set up in the lounge, even if that means getting special support for the keyboard and mouse (I have quite a good set up already). Wired/wires is of no consequence, I have got plenty of wired peripherals, including a Razer DeathAdder mouse.
Do you have any suggestions for how much I could sell some of the components to buy new/like new parts for this new gaming rig which will allow me to play the game specified on full settings, on my 32" LCD TV?
Unfortunately, keeping the other PC in another room is not an option. The missus likes the idea having a free room to use for other things. I'm still serious about getting a gaming PC set up in the lounge, even if that means getting special support for the keyboard and mouse (I have quite a good set up already). Wired/wires is of no consequence, I have got plenty of wired peripherals, including a Razer DeathAdder mouse.
Do you have any suggestions for how much I could sell some of the components to buy new/like new parts for this new gaming rig which will allow me to play the game specified on full settings, on my 32" LCD TV?
I have no clue what someone else would pay for your hardware; however, I can suggest that you not get your hopes up.
Forget about selling the fan... nobody wants a used dusty fan that will probably die soon when a new one is only a few dollars. ATA133 drive drawer... I'd donate it to the Smithsonian so they could set it up next the the Commodore 64 display. Same with the 2.0 card reader, the 17" monitor, and the DVD. You might be able to get some money for them from someone... but I couldn't begin to hazard a guess as to how much?
Components I'd keep would be the P35, the quad core, sound card, PSU and RAM.
You might have some luck with the 22" monitor... not sure about the 8800. If money were to be had for them, I'd have prolly sold the one sitting in my closet a while ago... but hey, spares are never a bad thing to have laying around.
Forget about selling the fan... nobody wants a used dusty fan that will probably die soon when a new one is only a few dollars. ATA133 drive drawer... I'd donate it to the Smithsonian so they could set it up next the the Commodore 64 display. Same with the 2.0 card reader, the 17" monitor, and the DVD. You might be able to get some money for them from someone... but I couldn't begin to hazard a guess as to how much?
Components I'd keep would be the P35, the quad core, sound card, PSU and RAM.
You might have some luck with the 22" monitor... not sure about the 8800. If money were to be had for them, I'd have prolly sold the one sitting in my closet a while ago... but hey, spares are never a bad thing to have laying around.
So it's fair to say it will be hit and miss selling any of the components. I will do some research to find out how much they might go for.
The components I have spare from the other PC wont be sufficient for my gaming requirements will they? So do I wait now until more is heard about this new hardware coming out soon?
The components I have spare from the other PC wont be sufficient for my gaming requirements will they? So do I wait now until more is heard about this new hardware coming out soon?
�� Quote: Originally Posted by Sheepdisease The components I have spare from the other PC wont be sufficient for my gaming requirements will they? So do I wait now until more is heard about this new hardware coming out soon?
�� Quote: Originally Posted by Sheepdisease I want to play using highest settings.
Recommended system requirements:
Recommended system requirements:
- 2nd Generation Intel� Core�i5 processor (or greater), or AMD equivalent
- 2GB RAM (XP), 4GB RAM (Vista / Windows7)
- AMD Radeon HD 5000 and 6000 series graphics cards or equivalent DirectX 11 compatible graphics card
I have checked on Overclockers UK and managed to compile the following list:
What do you think of the following?
MSI ATI Radeon HD 6950 2048MB GDDR5 PCI-Express Graphics Card �219.98
AMD AMD Phenom II X4 Quad Core 955 Black Edition "125W Edition" 3.20GHz (Socket AM3) - Retail �89.99
Gigabyte GA-880GA-UD3H AMD 880G (Socket AM3) DDR3 Motherboard �88.99
Corsair XMS3 4GB (2x2GB) DDR3 PC3-12800C9 1600MHz Dual Channel Kit (CMX4GX3M2A1600C9) �39.98
(Overclockers UK)
I've checked and I am pretty sure the current PSU I have will be sufficient. I also think the GPU will support bitstreaming.
What do you think of the following?
MSI ATI Radeon HD 6950 2048MB GDDR5 PCI-Express Graphics Card �219.98
AMD AMD Phenom II X4 Quad Core 955 Black Edition "125W Edition" 3.20GHz (Socket AM3) - Retail �89.99
Gigabyte GA-880GA-UD3H AMD 880G (Socket AM3) DDR3 Motherboard �88.99
Corsair XMS3 4GB (2x2GB) DDR3 PC3-12800C9 1600MHz Dual Channel Kit (CMX4GX3M2A1600C9) �39.98
(Overclockers UK)
I've checked and I am pretty sure the current PSU I have will be sufficient. I also think the GPU will support bitstreaming.
I think you'd be well advised to stay as far from MSI as possible... just about every other vendor has superior support.
I haven't had an AMD since Conroe, I only know Intel has been kicking AMD's butt for quite a while now... hard. If the price difference between this AMD rig and the Intel rig you're about to go looking for is minimal, then get the Intel rig.
Yes, a 6950 will run your games nicely at 1920 and it will Bitstream. All you need to do now is make sure your receiver has hdmi 1.3 or above ports, and that you use hdmi 2.0 cables.
Recall that Bitstreaming is just passing all audio off to the receiver. You're only using the hdmi connection to the card as an audio conduit.
I haven't had an AMD since Conroe, I only know Intel has been kicking AMD's butt for quite a while now... hard. If the price difference between this AMD rig and the Intel rig you're about to go looking for is minimal, then get the Intel rig.
Yes, a 6950 will run your games nicely at 1920 and it will Bitstream. All you need to do now is make sure your receiver has hdmi 1.3 or above ports, and that you use hdmi 2.0 cables.
Recall that Bitstreaming is just passing all audio off to the receiver. You're only using the hdmi connection to the card as an audio conduit.
What makes Intel stand out and beat AMD at the moment?
Apart from being sold as an MSI product, the card I have listed is good isn't it?
Luckily my AV features HDMI v1.3 connectivity supporting 'Deep Colour', 1080p resolutions, 24 frames per second 'native film' format and format upconversion from all inputs to HDMI with video scaling to full 1080p HD resolution, the DSPAX863SE has fantastic video performance. Component video, S-Video and composite video inputs and outputs also ensure compatibility with older equipment.
Everything else is connected to the TV via the AV (including Blu-Ray Player, PS2 and Wii).
Apart from being sold as an MSI product, the card I have listed is good isn't it?
Luckily my AV features HDMI v1.3 connectivity supporting 'Deep Colour', 1080p resolutions, 24 frames per second 'native film' format and format upconversion from all inputs to HDMI with video scaling to full 1080p HD resolution, the DSPAX863SE has fantastic video performance. Component video, S-Video and composite video inputs and outputs also ensure compatibility with older equipment.
Everything else is connected to the TV via the AV (including Blu-Ray Player, PS2 and Wii).
Sheepdisease, I can tell you what you need to meet your specfications for a gaming rig. However I can't help with the video center and bitstreaming. Listen to Fumz, he knows what he is talking about. Fumz is your guy.
It's been longer than just a moment. Intel has been kicking AMD's keister since 2006 with the introduction of Conroe. Since then, no matter what AMD has tried, they just haven't been able to produce a processor that can keep up with Intel. Even the AMD 6 core cpu's get crushed by Intel quads.
I don't know what's happening over at AMD because it used to be the opposite. Intel were the big boys with the huge market share... and AMD was the little engine that could, continually producing one chip after another that was just faster than Intel.
Here's where the 955 stands, below the 1156 i5's. CPU Benchmark, Part 2: Mainstream Processors. Page 6 - X-bit labs. Here's how well the AMD 6 core cpu's stand up to last generation Intel cpus. CPU Benchmark, Part 3: High-End Processors. Page 6 - X-bit labs... and if that weren't bad enough, along comes Sandy Bridge. Core i7-990X Extreme Edition vs. Core i7-2600K. Page 4 - X-bit labs
Those Phenom's just look lost and alone hanging out waaaaay down there at the bottom of the list... kinda makes you sad.
I don't know what's happening over at AMD because it used to be the opposite. Intel were the big boys with the huge market share... and AMD was the little engine that could, continually producing one chip after another that was just faster than Intel.
Here's where the 955 stands, below the 1156 i5's. CPU Benchmark, Part 2: Mainstream Processors. Page 6 - X-bit labs. Here's how well the AMD 6 core cpu's stand up to last generation Intel cpus. CPU Benchmark, Part 3: High-End Processors. Page 6 - X-bit labs... and if that weren't bad enough, along comes Sandy Bridge. Core i7-990X Extreme Edition vs. Core i7-2600K. Page 4 - X-bit labs
Those Phenom's just look lost and alone hanging out waaaaay down there at the bottom of the list... kinda makes you sad.
Right, well that is fair enough! I think I am beginning to understand.
Could you please provide me with an alternative list of hardware, which would come to around the same price and achieve the desired end result?
Could you please provide me with an alternative list of hardware, which would come to around the same price and achieve the desired end result?
�� Quote: Originally Posted by Sheepdisease Right, well that is fair enough! I think I am beginning to understand.
Could you please provide me with an alternative list of hardware, which would come to around the same price and achieve the desired end result?
Could you please provide me with an alternative list of hardware, which would come to around the same price and achieve the desired end result?
I don't mind critiquing hardware, or nudging someone in a direction I feel is better performance/price wise once you've made your decision(s), but, I don't feel it's my place to choose your hardware for you. It's a karma thing...
1. 
Sapphire 21188-00-40R HD 6950 2GB GDDR5 Graphics Card Offered by boomdeal by SAPPHIRE �235.00
2.
Asus P8P67 New B3 Rev Motherboard (P67 chipset ATX, Intel?s 1155 Socket, USB 3.0/Sata 6Gb/s, Dual Lan, Bluetooth & Digi+VRM ) by Asus�134.00
3.
Corsair CMZ8GX3M2A1600C9 8GB 1600MHz CL9 DDR3 Vengeance Memory Two Module Kit Offered by KOMPBAY by Corsair
�68.50
4.
Intel Core i7-2600 Sandy Bridge 3.4GHz (3.8GHz Turbo Boost) 4 x 256KB L2 Cache 8MB L3 Cache LGA 1155 95W Quad-Core Desktop Processor Offered by KOMPBAY by Intel
�219.89
Total: �657.39
This is what I am now considering. What are you thoughts?
Sapphire 21188-00-40R HD 6950 2GB GDDR5 Graphics Card Offered by boomdeal by SAPPHIRE �235.00
2.
Asus P8P67 New B3 Rev Motherboard (P67 chipset ATX, Intel?s 1155 Socket, USB 3.0/Sata 6Gb/s, Dual Lan, Bluetooth & Digi+VRM ) by Asus�134.00
3.
Corsair CMZ8GX3M2A1600C9 8GB 1600MHz CL9 DDR3 Vengeance Memory Two Module Kit Offered by KOMPBAY by Corsair
�68.50
4.
Intel Core i7-2600 Sandy Bridge 3.4GHz (3.8GHz Turbo Boost) 4 x 256KB L2 Cache 8MB L3 Cache LGA 1155 95W Quad-Core Desktop Processor Offered by KOMPBAY by Intel
�219.89
Total: �657.39
This is what I am now considering. What are you thoughts?
Well done. 
... now go get yourself a quality power supply.
... now go get yourself a quality power supply.
So do you think this is a good choice of hardware?
What's wrong with my Corsair 620W HX Modular PSU?
What's wrong with my Corsair 620W HX Modular PSU?
The only recommendation I would make is if you get the P67 board, might as well get the K version of the CPU.
�� Quote: Originally Posted by Sheepdisease So do you think this is a good choice of hardware?
What's wrong with my Corsair 620W HX Modular PSU?
What's wrong with my Corsair 620W HX Modular PSU?
�� Quote: Originally Posted by essenbe The only recommendation I would make is if you get the P67 board, might as well get the K version of the CPU.
No point getting H67 or P67 anymore. Go for Z68. Benefits of both platforms.
Ah, the choices!
Aria
Intel Core i7-2600K 3.40GHz (Sandybridge) Socket LGA1155 Processor - Retail �189.99
Gigabyte GA-Z68X-UD4 Intel Z68 (REV B3) Socket 1155 DDR3 PCI-Express Motherboard �129.99
8GB Patriot G2 Division 2 Edition (2x4GB) DDR3 PC3-12800C9 'SandyBridge' 1600MHz Dual Channel Kit �58.99
MSI ATI Radeon HD 6950 OC Twin FrozR III Power Edition 2048MB GDDR5 PCI-Express Graphics Card + FREE Stalker Call of Pripyat Game �177.38
Basket Total �556.35
Approx. Delivery �6.95
VAT �112.66
Total �675.96
Ebuyer
Asrock Z68 EXTREME4 Socket 1155 8 Channel HD Audio ATX Motherboard �140.26
Intel Core i7 2600k 3.4GHz Socket 1155 8MB Cache Retail Boxed Processor �235.01
HIS HD 6950 IceQ X Turbo 2GB GDDR5 Dual DVI HDMI Dual Mini DisplayPort PCI-E Graphics Card �214.98
Corsair 8GB (2x4GB) DDR3 1600MHz XMS3 Memory Kit CL9 1.65V �75.20
Cart total inc vat: �665.45
Dabs
Asus P6Z68-V PRO LGA1155 Intel Z68 DDR3 ATX (USB 3.0) �149.98 (Get Medal Of Honor: Buy & Mail duncsdeals@dabs.com Free)
Intel Core i7-2600K 3.40GHz LGA1155 8MB �244.32
Sapphire Technology ATI Radeon HD 6950 800MHz 2GB PCI-Express DVI + 2 x mDP �215.98
Corsair Memory 8GB (2x4GB) Vengeance Performance DDR3 1600MHz CL9 DIMM �79.99
Delivery (3.590kg) Free!
Total (inc VAT) �690.21
Overclockers UK
Intel Core i7-2600K 3.40GHz (Sandybridge) Socket LGA1155 Processor - OEM �227.99
MSI ATI Radeon HD 6950 OC Twin FrozR III Power Edition 2048MB GDDR5 PCI-Express Graphics Card with FREE DIRT3 Game �199.99
Corsair XMS3 8GB (2x4GB) DDR3 PC3-12800C9 1600MHz Dual Channel Kit (CMX8GX3M2A1600C9) �65.99
Asus P8Z68-V PRO Intel Z68 (Socket 1155) DDR3 Motherboard �150.00
Sub Total: �536.64
Shipping cost assumes delivery to UK Mainland with:
DPD Next Day Parcel
(This can be changed during checkout) Shipping: �9.50
VAT is being charged at 20.00%
VAT: �109.23
Total: �655.37
Amazon UK
Sapphire 21188-00-40R HD 6950 2GB GDDR5 Graphics Card Offered by boomdeal by SAPPHIRE �235.00
Asus P8Z68-V PRO Intel Z68 Motherboard Supports Socket for Intel 2nd Generation Core i7/ Core? i5/ Corei3 Processors ATX Featuring LucidLogix Virtu Technology by Asus �168.47
Corsair CMZ8GX3M2A1600C9 8GB 1600MHz CL9 DDR3 Vengeance Memory Two Module Kit Offered by KOMPBAY by Corsair �68.50
Intel Core i7-2600 Sandy Bridge 3.4GHz (3.8GHz Turbo Boost) 4 x 256KB L2 Cache 8MB L3 Cache LGA 1155 95W Quad-Core Desktop Processor Offered by KOMPBAY by Intel �219.89
Total: �714.70 (including delivery)
Aria
Intel Core i7-2600K 3.40GHz (Sandybridge) Socket LGA1155 Processor - Retail �189.99 Gigabyte GA-Z68X-UD4 Intel Z68 (REV B3) Socket 1155 DDR3 PCI-Express Motherboard �129.99 8GB Patriot G2 Division 2 Edition (2x4GB) DDR3 PC3-12800C9 'SandyBridge' 1600MHz Dual Channel Kit �58.99 MSI ATI Radeon HD 6950 OC Twin FrozR III Power Edition 2048MB GDDR5 PCI-Express Graphics Card + FREE Stalker Call of Pripyat Game �177.38 Basket Total �556.35
Approx. Delivery �6.95
VAT �112.66
Total �675.96
Ebuyer
Asrock Z68 EXTREME4 Socket 1155 8 Channel HD Audio ATX Motherboard �140.26
Intel Core i7 2600k 3.4GHz Socket 1155 8MB Cache Retail Boxed Processor �235.01
HIS HD 6950 IceQ X Turbo 2GB GDDR5 Dual DVI HDMI Dual Mini DisplayPort PCI-E Graphics Card �214.98
Corsair 8GB (2x4GB) DDR3 1600MHz XMS3 Memory Kit CL9 1.65V �75.20
Cart total inc vat: �665.45
Dabs
Asus P6Z68-V PRO LGA1155 Intel Z68 DDR3 ATX (USB 3.0) �149.98 (Get Medal Of Honor: Buy & Mail duncsdeals@dabs.com Free) Intel Core i7-2600K 3.40GHz LGA1155 8MB �244.32 Sapphire Technology ATI Radeon HD 6950 800MHz 2GB PCI-Express DVI + 2 x mDP �215.98 Corsair Memory 8GB (2x4GB) Vengeance Performance DDR3 1600MHz CL9 DIMM �79.99 Delivery (3.590kg) Free!
Total (inc VAT) �690.21
Overclockers UK
Intel Core i7-2600K 3.40GHz (Sandybridge) Socket LGA1155 Processor - OEM �227.99MSI ATI Radeon HD 6950 OC Twin FrozR III Power Edition 2048MB GDDR5 PCI-Express Graphics Card with FREE DIRT3 Game �199.99Corsair XMS3 8GB (2x4GB) DDR3 PC3-12800C9 1600MHz Dual Channel Kit (CMX8GX3M2A1600C9) �65.99 Asus P8Z68-V PRO Intel Z68 (Socket 1155) DDR3 Motherboard �150.00Sub Total: �536.64
Shipping cost assumes delivery to UK Mainland with:
DPD Next Day Parcel
(This can be changed during checkout) Shipping: �9.50
VAT is being charged at 20.00%
VAT: �109.23
Total: �655.37
Amazon UK
Sapphire 21188-00-40R HD 6950 2GB GDDR5 Graphics Card Offered by boomdeal by SAPPHIRE �235.00 Asus P8Z68-V PRO Intel Z68 Motherboard Supports Socket for Intel 2nd Generation Core i7/ Core? i5/ Corei3 Processors ATX Featuring LucidLogix Virtu Technology by Asus �168.47Corsair CMZ8GX3M2A1600C9 8GB 1600MHz CL9 DDR3 Vengeance Memory Two Module Kit Offered by KOMPBAY by Corsair �68.50 Intel Core i7-2600 Sandy Bridge 3.4GHz (3.8GHz Turbo Boost) 4 x 256KB L2 Cache 8MB L3 Cache LGA 1155 95W Quad-Core Desktop Processor Offered by KOMPBAY by Intel �219.89Total: �714.70 (including delivery)
After looking through these options, I am considering the following:
HIS HD 6950 IceQ X Turbo 2GB GDDR5 Dual DVI HDMI Dual Mini DisplayPort PCI-E Graphics Card 264775 15 in stock �214.98 �214.98
Xenta Gold Plated V1.4 HDMI to HDMI Cable Black - 2 Metre 193821 15313 in stock �5.99 �5.99 CABLE TIE PK 100 2.5MM X 100MM 235786 21 in stock �2.23 �2.23
Cart total inc vat: �223.20
Intel Core i7 2600k 3.4GHz Socket 1155 8MB Cache Retail Boxed Processor �235.01 (Ebuyer)
Asus P6Z68-V PRO LGA1155 Intel Z68 DDR3 ATX (USB 3.0) �149.98 (Get Medal Of Honor: Buy & Mail duncsdeals@dabs.com Free) (Dabs)
Corsair CMZ8GX3M2A1600C9 8GB 1600MHz CL9 DDR3 Vengeance Memory Two Module Kit �68.50 (Amazon)
Total: �676.69
Can you please tell me what you think and whether this is a fair price?
HIS HD 6950 IceQ X Turbo 2GB GDDR5 Dual DVI HDMI Dual Mini DisplayPort PCI-E Graphics Card 264775 15 in stock �214.98 �214.98
Xenta Gold Plated V1.4 HDMI to HDMI Cable Black - 2 Metre 193821 15313 in stock �5.99 �5.99 CABLE TIE PK 100 2.5MM X 100MM 235786 21 in stock �2.23 �2.23
Cart total inc vat: �223.20
Intel Core i7 2600k 3.4GHz Socket 1155 8MB Cache Retail Boxed Processor �235.01 (Ebuyer)
Asus P6Z68-V PRO LGA1155 Intel Z68 DDR3 ATX (USB 3.0) �149.98 (Get Medal Of Honor: Buy & Mail duncsdeals@dabs.com Free) (Dabs)
Corsair CMZ8GX3M2A1600C9 8GB 1600MHz CL9 DDR3 Vengeance Memory Two Module Kit �68.50 (Amazon)
Total: �676.69
Can you please tell me what you think and whether this is a fair price?
All are good choices. Nobody is going to come in here and say x or y part is bad. About the only thing you can get at this point is opinion... what matters most though is yours. You've done all the work, now it's time to build and enjoy.
About the only thing I could add at this point would be that you don't need to get fancy smancy hdmi cables. As long as they're hdmi 2.0, then they will work... leave the gold plated stuff for the schmucks at best buy..
HDMI Cable
About the only thing I could add at this point would be that you don't need to get fancy smancy hdmi cables. As long as they're hdmi 2.0, then they will work... leave the gold plated stuff for the schmucks at best buy..
HDMI Cable
yeah, good point about the cable quality. with analog cables (like s-video ones), you'll want them to be good quaity. however, with digital (eg HDMI), it's either 1 or 0. There can't be any quality degradation etc.
I'd get a GTX 570 or 580 instead of that 6950, and an 8GB set of Kingston HyperX instead of that Corsair set.
�� Quote: Originally Posted by cmd187 I'd get a GTX 570 or 580 instead of that 6950, and an 8GB set of Kingston HyperX instead of that Corsair set.
�� Quote: Originally Posted by Fumz �� Quote: Originally Posted by cmd187 I'd get a GTX 570 or 580 instead of that 6950, and an 8GB set of Kingston HyperX instead of that Corsair set.
�� Quote: Originally Posted by cmd187 �� Quote: Originally Posted by Fumz �� Quote: Originally Posted by cmd187 I'd get a GTX 570 or 580 instead of that 6950, and an 8GB set of Kingston HyperX instead of that Corsair set.
You do understand there's difference between CAS and voltage, right? The sticks you mention are 1.65 volts. Sandy Bridge likes 1.5 volt RAM. I thought I made that clear?
You should also know that for Sandy Bridge it's better to increase memory frequency than to tighten timings. Basically, CAS is the last thing to worry about as it provides the least gains in performance.
DDR3 SDRAM for Sandy Bridge: Choosing the Best Memory for LGA1155 Platform - X-bit labs
Sandy Bridge can run at 1.65v. No problem, yes you can run lower, but that will be fine.
�� Quote: Originally Posted by cmd187 Sandy Bridge can run at 1.65v. No problem, yes you can run lower, but that will be fine.
Intel has always said to use no more than 5% over the standard, which is ~ 1.6 volts. Anything more is a risk... a risk overclockers take, but a risk nonetheless.
You have no way of knowing how the Sandy Bridge memory controller will react to that much voltage over time... nobody does, they're too new. If you want to take chances with your own hardware, more power to you, but when you give bad/ill-informed advice, you're taking chances with other people's hardware... and so you must be corrected.
Overclockers UK Forums - View Single Post - Sandy Bridge 2500k Just Died
Let me keep you updated.
I have ordered:
MSI ATI Radeon HD 6950 OC Twin FrozR III Power Edition 2048MB GDDR5 PCI-Express Graphics Card with FREE DIRT3 Game �166.66
Intel Core i5-2500K 3.30GHz (Sandybridge) Socket LGA1155 Processor - OEM �129.99
G.Skill RipJawsX 8GB (2x4GB) DDR3 PC3-12800C8 1600MHz Dual Channel Kit (F3-12800CL8D-8GBXM) �74.99
Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus CPU Cooler (Socket AM2/AM2+/AM3/775/1155/1156/1366) �16.66
OcUK Value 1.8m Male - Male Gold Plated v1.4 Oxygen Free HDMI Cable - 3D READY �4.99
Dirt 3 Email Game Voucher (AMD promotion) �0.00
DPD Next Day Parcel: �9.50
VAT: �80.56
Order Total: �483.351
Gigabyte Z68X-UD3P-B3 Intel Z68 DDR3 ATX Motherboard - Socket 1155 @ �125.50
Order Total : �157.74
Overall: �641.09
I have ordered:
MSI ATI Radeon HD 6950 OC Twin FrozR III Power Edition 2048MB GDDR5 PCI-Express Graphics Card with FREE DIRT3 Game �166.66
Intel Core i5-2500K 3.30GHz (Sandybridge) Socket LGA1155 Processor - OEM �129.99
G.Skill RipJawsX 8GB (2x4GB) DDR3 PC3-12800C8 1600MHz Dual Channel Kit (F3-12800CL8D-8GBXM) �74.99
Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus CPU Cooler (Socket AM2/AM2+/AM3/775/1155/1156/1366) �16.66
OcUK Value 1.8m Male - Male Gold Plated v1.4 Oxygen Free HDMI Cable - 3D READY �4.99
Dirt 3 Email Game Voucher (AMD promotion) �0.00
DPD Next Day Parcel: �9.50
VAT: �80.56
Order Total: �483.351
Gigabyte Z68X-UD3P-B3 Intel Z68 DDR3 ATX Motherboard - Socket 1155 @ �125.50
Order Total : �157.74
Overall: �641.09
�� Quote: Originally Posted by Sheepdisease Let me keep you updated.
I have ordered:
I have ordered:
Yep! Will be building it from Friday onwards.
good luck, hope it goes well
Hardware arriving today!
Then today is indeed a good day. Post pics when you're done. I'm sure everyone who's had a hand in this would like to see the rig.
This is bliss... I can't believe I managed to boot into Windows 7 without reactivation coming up for changing hardware...
I intend to install Windows 7 64 bit anyhow... Although strangely the system is now picking up 8GB of ram in Windows 7 32 bit..
I intend to install Windows 7 64 bit anyhow... Although strangely the system is now picking up 8GB of ram in Windows 7 32 bit..
Graphics score seems a bit low... my 5850 gets 7.7... did you install the drivers?
i5-750 default clock speed, 5850, 4GB G.Skill Pi, Samsung F3 1TB.
i5-750 default clock speed, 5850, 4GB G.Skill Pi, Samsung F3 1TB.
�� Quote: Originally Posted by Fumz Graphics score seems a bit low... my 5850 gets 7.7... did you install the drivers?
i5-750 default clock speed, 5850, 4GB G.Skill Pi, Samsung F3 1TB.
i5-750 default clock speed, 5850, 4GB G.Skill Pi, Samsung F3 1TB.
One thing I just noticed about WEI: which drivers you install has an effect. It shouldn't, because it's supposed to rate hardware, but with the last set of nvidia drivers I get 7.9 on my graphics score; with the 275.33's I just re-ran it and got a 7.8 (like I have room to gripe )... so it's possible the low score is simply to to this set of drivers you're running (if you're running them yet?). I wouldn't be overly concerned about it though... wei is meaningless and has zero impact on real world performance and AMD releases new sets very often (too often if you asked me).
)... so it's possible the low score is simply to to this set of drivers you're running (if you're running them yet?). I wouldn't be overly concerned about it though... wei is meaningless and has zero impact on real world performance and AMD releases new sets very often (too often if you asked me). whoa... if that was an SSD, that would be one of the best WEI scores i've ever seen. Congratulations
Don't know why, but my score has increased...
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