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a low power gaming GPU for $100-$200?

Joined
Mar 22, 2008
Messages
21
Location
Montreal, Canada
Hello,

I'm currently researching GPUs looking to upgrade quite a few machines to be able to run games like UT3...
The main issue is the PSU which is only 280W [or 275W]..
the GPU requirments:
- PCIe x16
- Vertex Shader 3.0
- Pixel Shader 3.0

let me know if you guys have any suggestions
Thanks!
 

Silvgearx

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Joined
Sep 12, 2008
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2,063
Location
Toronto
It would help if you post full system specs. But for a 280W psu its gonna be tough. Most GPU require a minimum 300W psu (like the ati x16xx series, ati 9800 pro and HD2600pro).
 

Soultribunal

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Joined
Dec 8, 2008
Messages
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Location
Orangeville
If you can't for whatever reason upgrade the PSU,

HIS Radeon 2600 HD/XT versions. I am not sure of the other specs you are asking about ( I know 'of' some video card specs, but I won't pretend to know it all).

That card can be found for $80, and it doesn't require a seperate PSU plug to run it.

Regards,
ST
 

Eagle Eye

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Joined
Dec 27, 2007
Messages
2,039
Location
Kleinburg, ON
Ha!! so what is it your upgrading DELL, HP, Acer, Gateway?

I know from experience that even longterm gaming under normal circumstrances will burn out those PSUs, adding a more powerful videocard will likely mean you'll be back asking for PSU replacements suggestions. Strongly suggest you take the advice the others and somehow work in a new psu as part of the budget.

EE
 
Joined
Mar 22, 2008
Messages
21
Location
Montreal, Canada
It would help if you post full system specs. But for a 280W psu its gonna be tough. Most GPU require a minimum 300W psu (like the ati x16xx series, ati 9800 pro and HD2600pro).
I was afraid that was the case... the machines are dell Optiplex 740 OptiPlex 740 Desktop Product Details
They are one of the 2 thin models .. either the "Desktop" version or the "Small form factor" version which has a weaker PSU...

9800gt -> $120 AR
Seasonic 400w -> $50
Just buy a new power supply. You can buy a decent 500w one for like 50$.
usually, That's what I'd do... but I'll be upgrading 10 machines.. and finding a good cheap PSUs that fit the unusual cases and installing them might not be an option

If you can't for whatever reason upgrade the PSU,

HIS Radeon 2600 HD/XT versions. I am not sure of the other specs you are asking about ( I know 'of' some video card specs, but I won't pretend to know it all).

That card can be found for $80, and it doesn't require a seperate PSU plug to run it.

Regards,
ST

Thanks, I'll look into them.

Ha!! so what is it your upgrading DELL, HP, Acer, Gateway?

I know from experience that even longterm gaming under normal circumstrances will burn out those PSUs, adding a more powerful videocard will likely mean you'll be back asking for PSU replacements suggestions. Strongly suggest you take the advice the others and somehow work in a new psu as part of the budget.

EE
the machines [10 of them] are dell Optiplex 740 OptiPlex 740 Desktop Product Details
They are not for long term gaming.. I just need them to run the unreal engine decently few hours a week

but I totally agree with your advice.. I did invest into a good PSU for me personal self built gaming machines.. and it pays off very well..

The Truth About Graphics Power Requirements V2 - Graphic Hardware - Forums - www.atomicmpc.com.au
Coding Horror: Video Card Power Consumption

If you know the TPD of the rest of your hardware, and it doesn't draw more than say 200W total then I think you're safe. Any more than that and you'll probably stress your PSU too much
It makes sens but I wont be able to do the calculations... Thanks for the links though
 

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