Graphics isuues (PC)

[D-Rider]

Bit of rubbish advice form whoever suggested an external graphics card - they are designed for laptops!

Dale

Now it all becomes clear...

Hence my first reply - I just assumed we were not discussing a desktop!

[Dalemac]

PCIE 2.0 cards will run in PCI 1.1 (x16) ports, according to here:

http://www.overclock.net/t/299941/pci-e ... ess-1-slot

So you could probably pick up a relatively cheap PCIE 2.0 card for about 50 quid which should run those games.

I would be tempted by something like this: http://www.ksn-online.com/products/Comp ... did=241457

Depends on how much you want to spend, and how much wattage your PC can supply.

Dale

[MartDude]

Thanks for the replies. You've given me plenty to ponder.

If I decide to upgrade the graphics card, I think I'll take it to a friend who runs a computer repair business here; then I've someone to bollock if it goes wrong.

I must admit I was a tad disappointed when these games wouldn't run - not that that's a major issue in itself (the games were only just over a tenner) - I'm starting to go off my rocker with frustration & boredom. I've had 3 weeks off work so far, probably another 2-3 weeks to follow, can't drive for another 3 weeks, can't use my right arm for anything too strenuous - so no serious bike fettling (I'd wanted to get a few bits, like the centre stand, rear sub-frame & exhaust off for re-powder-coating/thorough cleaning). Can't/shouldn't use my right hand much with a mouse, so using the left hand, which I'm still finding awkward. Hey ho.

[Dalemac]

So, did you try upgrading the graphics driver? its worth a shot even if it does not work - and it is completely free.

Dale

[MartDude]

So, did you try upgrading the graphics driver? its worth a shot even if it does not work - and it is completely free.

Dale

Give me a chance! I've installed whatever updates re graphics I could find, but no change.

[Aladinsaneuk]

upgrading may be a problem as some dell cases are buggers... also - the PSU is low - so be aware

[BikerGran]

Take it to a small, local computer shop Mart - my knowledge is probably about the same level as yours and that's what I do. Little shop in town, a one man band, he doesn't charge the earth and does a good job, saves a lot of stress!

[flatlander]

Graphics Card:PCI Express x16 Graphics
External Connector: 15-hole connector
Graphics Card A circuit board fitted to a computer containing the necessary video memory and other electronics to provide a bitmap display. Adaptors vary in the resolution (number of pixels) and number of colours they can display, and in the refresh rate they support. These parameters are also limited by the monitor to which the adaptor is connected.


If you upgrade the graphics you may as well do the on board as well if you haven't already
http://www.crucial.com/uk/store/mpartsp ... B4A5CA7304



RAM
Inspiron 530 has a hardware limitation of 4GB, this is the way it has been designed by Dell. This limit is regardless of the Operating System. but a 64 bit OS will use all 4 a 32 bit will use 3-3.5gb but will still take advantage of the dual channel

You may need to look at your monitor as well

On the plus side Dells arent that vhard to take apart especially if you have the use of both arms

ps I could probably pop over and fit it if you do get anything

[MartDude]

Thanks, mate. I'll digest that and may take you up on that.

However, Pete has been trying to talk me into getting an Xbox instead.

[flatlander]

well to be fair if you want to play games a gaming machine would be a good bet

[MartDude]

Upgrading or replacing the PC I could probably get past SWMBO; Xbox, no - too much self-indulgence, when the money could be spent on something useful but boring.

[flatlander]

you can stream films to it thus providing access to ro,mantic home movies via love film etc and it clears up space

[Aladinsaneuk]

that dell is fairly old, and to play more modern games, probably needs to be upgraded - and not just the graphics card

that is likely to be north of 100 quid - indeed if it could be done (I have looked at upgrading dell's in the past - that model has a very low spec power supply unit and that governs the choice of graphics card..... and the case may well not take many cards - its very small.....

to play the odd game game etc, i would strongly suggest an xbox 360 or a ps3 - I have both so have no preference

due to the choice of games available;e, i would go for xbox

under 200 for a new unit - or get a reconditioned one from game - 12 month guarantee and then spend some money on a stack of second hand games

[D-Rider]

It just so happens I have a brand new Xbox360 sitting by my desk - arrived 5 mins ago.

Amazon was the place: £159.98 (delivered) for the 250GB version (the 4GB one was about £30 cheaper). They and Currys were the cheapest I could find online.

I've bought it so that we can play the games from the one my son had and also use the Kinect I bought last year.
My son has now upgraded to a PS3 following his Xbox dying for the second time.

[Aladinsaneuk]

and yes, do get the 250gb version - the 4gb is a little limited save game wise etc

oh - budget in the future for 25 quid for the xbox live gold online thingie - i think it is worth it

do not worry about a kinnect..... if you wanted one, it could be added later