Basic upgrade question

**Mortalis** · September 25th, 2009, 03:52 PM

I have very little knowledge about this sort of stuff, so if it's a stupid question I apologize.

Right now I'm using a computer that has all the specs I need for playing games aside from the graphics card. I have an Intel g45/g43 Express Chipset. Now, I was talking to someone who said it was an integrated chipset, and most things are are integrated can't be upgraded. Do I have to buy a new computer if I want a better Video Card, or is there something I can do?

Thanks!

**Aaron_8015** · September 25th, 2009, 04:07 PM

Hi and welcome.

If its a desktop then chances are it can be upgraded. If you give us the make and model. We can find out for you.

**Mortalis** · September 25th, 2009, 04:15 PM

It's a Desktop.

Gateway, Model SX2800.
Processor: Intel Core 2 Quad CPU, Q8200 @2.33GHz 2.34GHz
Ram: 4GB
System Type: 64 bit Operating System.

Not sure how much of that information you need. Just trying to make sure I got it all. I think thats everything.

Thanks Again!

**RicheemxX** · September 25th, 2009, 04:37 PM

From the specs page http://www.gateway.com/systems/product/529668287.php it shows you have an available PCI-E x16 slot which means you can add on a better gpu. The problem is the case size and the power supply. It only has a 220w psu and you've got a small form factor case. Therefore its going to be tough to find a card that will work well with that setup.

**Mortalis** · September 25th, 2009, 04:52 PM

So lets say I went to Newegg or Amazon to see if I could look for anything that might fit my computer, what specs would I look for? Is there certain system info that would tell me if it would run with my Power supply and fit in my case? Something under around or under $150 would be great for me.

But it's good to know that I can atleast upgrade it. Makes me feel better about the system overall.

**nickslick74** · September 25th, 2009, 05:06 PM

This video card should fit (2nd review states your exact model).
Newegg.com - SAPPHIRE 100253HDMI Radeon HD 4650 512MB 128-bit GDDR2 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFire Supported Low Profile Video Card - Desktop Graphics / Video Cards = $54.99

Not sure if your computer case supports a standard ATx power supply, but if it does this Antec would be nice.
Newegg.com - Antec Basiq BP430 430W Continuous Power ATX12V Version 2.2 Active PFC Power Supply - Power Supplies = $44.95

**Aaron_8015** · September 25th, 2009, 05:11 PM

This should work fine IF the PSU will fit in the case.
(after looking at the link from 'Rich' you would really have to make sure it will fit).

9800GT (low profile)
Newegg.com - SPARKLE SX98GT512D3L-NM GeForce 9800 GT 512MB 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready Low Profile Ready Video Card - Desktop Graphics / Video Cards

OCZ 400W unit.
Newegg.com - OCZ StealthXStream OCZ400SXS 400W ATX12V Active PFC Power Supply - Power Supplies

**Mortalis** · September 25th, 2009, 05:29 PM

I think I'll go with the Radeon HD 4650 Card. I'm not really sure if the Power Supply's would fit, as I'm not even sure how to check, so better safe than sorry. Thanks so much for the help guys, you really made my day!

**Steaknife** · November 27th, 2009, 12:06 AM

I also have a Intel(R) G45"G43 Express Chipset, and am looking to upgrade the graphics -

I'm using an:
Acer
Aspire M5700
Processor: Intel(r) Core(TM)2 Quad CPU Q8200 @ 2.33 GHz 2.34 GHz
Memory: 4.00 GB
System Type: 64- bit operating system

My card is the only thing holding me back from moving to a little newer range of games; can anyone recommend one that might work with my case / power supply?