All PCs have the ability to display basic graphics. But to play the latest games with full graphics effects and to use dual-view monitors and high-end digital displays, it is often necessary to purchase a better video card, also known as an "accelerated graphics card". There are many different types of video cards available. Here's how to find the best one for you.
Steps
Step 1. Decide what you want and what you need to do with the video card
Video cards range widely in price, from € 800 for newer versions to € 30 for an entry-level card. To choose the right one you need to know how you want to use it. Do you want to play all the latest games in full resolution and full visual effects? In that case, you will need to purchase a high-end card, usually € 200 or more. If you just need to view your PC screen on two monitors or drive a high-end DVI monitor or TV, you can buy a low-end card. Keep in mind that the price-speed ratio steadily decreases after a cost of € 150, i.e. prices follow an exponential curve with the cheapest product in the range of € 200.
Step 2. Decide what type of slot you intend to use
Video cards can connect with three different types of slots on the motherboard. In order of highest performance, the slot types are: PCI Express, AGP or PCI. If your PC is over 5 years old, it might only have one PCI slot. Some PCs today have AGP slots, AGP cards usually cost € 10-20 cheaper than their equivalent PCI, and are 2-4 times faster, but are now quickly being replaced by the PCIe standard. If you bought the PC recently, you may have the newest and fastest PCI Express (PCIe) system.
Step 3. Choose a graphics chip brand (the most popular are ATI and nVidia)
These companies make the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) that is on the graphics card, while another company will make the rest of the graphics card (memory, fan, VGA / DVI connectors). There are two leading companies that make graphics chips that go on video cards. Many years ago, nVidia was the leader in this area but in the last four years AMD / ATI chips and drivers have caught up with nVidia in terms of performance and price, although recently AMD / ATI has lost some quality according to the opinions of some people. Both products are good, so the choice remains with the user who has to analyze the technical specifications of the card they want to buy. You can find reviews and descriptions of the leading chips and video cards available in all major PC magazines, online and at newsstands. You can also visit the manufacturer's website, such as the one for Diamond Multimedia, for more information on available video cards.
Step 4. Choose a manufacturer
Many video cards are made by different manufacturers. Some examples are Diamond Multimedia, PNY, ATI, and nVidia. Different manufacturers offer different levels of warranty and customer support, as well as different gaming experiences depending on the product. Many cards receive discounts from time to time, especially in vacation times and back to school, so take advantage of them to get a good deal.
Step 5. Choose a method to purchase the card
It can be purchased from a retail store (Circuit City, Best Buy, Wal-mart) or through an online store (such as newegg.com or pricewatch.com). Retail stores tend to have a good return on graphics card prices. You can save a significant amount of money if you buy online. If you choose a store, wait for the discount periods. As always, you can compare prices for most online retail stores.
Step 6. Install the card and enjoy your new accelerated graphics card
Warnings
- Make sure the power supply has enough power to run the card. High-end cards use a lot of power.
- Make sure you choose a graphics card that matches the type of slot you have in your PC. Before purchasing, check your system documentation to see if the slot types are PCI, AGP, PCI Express, or a combination.
- When installing the graphics card, be sure to disconnect the power! Removing or installing computer components while the computer is powered on (even if the computer may be turned off) can damage the computer, rendering the motherboard or other components inoperable.
- High-end video cards are equipped with auxiliary power connectors. These must be connected correctly for the card to work. The 8800 GTX has two power connectors, if they are not inserted correctly, you will hear a beep.
