Aurora R7, GPU, PSU, upgrade advice?

Thanks for the reply. Just so I understand you correctly, are you saying that my current processor could not handle a better GPU?

@Ferno1003 :

Thanks for the reply. Just so I understand you correctly, are you saying that my current processor could not handle a better GPU?

You don't have to do anything to your CPU. Just get the new GPU and PSU as you have planned. Makes sure the PSU has all the ports and cables you need to plug into the R7 and also that new graphics card.

@Ferno1003  "I have AMD in mind because of the FreeSync"

You don't need an AMD GPU for that monitor.  Your aw2518HF freesync monitor is also g-sync compatible.  You can use it with a Nvidia GPU and take advantage of the freesync tech (variable refresh rate). 

That's really useful to know! Widens my options considerably. Thank you.

I had actually considered the size from reading previous forums on here. I saw like you have that generally the RX 5700 XT cards are 3 fan and generally too big so I started looking at the ones that weren't XT's has they typically only had 2 fans. I however then saw this card specifically which is an XT with 2 fans measuring at 23cm apparently.

https://www.ebuyer.com/909939-msi-radeon-rx-5700-xt-mech-oc-8gb-graphics-card-rx-5700-xt-mech-oc

As for the PSU, what you've highlighted is also very helpful. I thought this was much simpler that it in fact is. I clearly need to spend more time researching and learning about these is order to find something suitable unless you have any recommendations?

Thank you for your continued advice on this.

Based on the advice that you have all very kindly given me, I've gone back to the drawing board and switched to Nvidia.

I'm about ready to purchase a Gigabyte GeForce RTX 2070 WINDFORCE 2X 8GB Graphic Card. This appears to measure at 45mm thick, 120mm wide and 265mm deep/long, which I believe should fit comfortably. It also seems a reasonable price for a significant upgrade for the price and my research says that the processors I have are very well suited to it.

Have I missed anything here or does this appear suitable?

The PSU however has caused me all kinds of issues, largely because no where seems to have much stock of the right units, I'm assuming because of the Pandemic, but also because of the limited size.

Now I have learnt that the Aurora R7 requires an ATX/BTX size PSU as my current one appears to be 86mm wide x 150mm high x 135mm deep. I used a PSU calculator which suggested a 750W PSU, but I've gone for a step up to factor in any other additions in the future. I noticed however that in my current R7 there is a fair bit of space between the PSU and the hinges/where the wires feed, which could allow about 22cm depth. Is this usable space?

If it was I could go with Kolink Continuum 850W 80 Plus Platinum Modular. I was a bit concerned with how cheap this was at first at £119 but after reading some reviews I became convinced it was worth trying, however my concern now is the dimensions (150 x 86 x 180 mm (W x H x D).

The back up option is the Corsair RM850x White 850W 80 Plus Gold Fully Mod at £135.97 which measures in at 150 x 86 x 150mm ( W x H x D).

Thoughts please?

Yeah just one follow-up on the g-sync compatible.  A number of AMD Freesync monitors can to toggled to work as g-sync compatible in the Nvidia control panel and will work as g-sync compatible just fine this way.  Nvidia released the update last year to support this.  Not all monitors have been retroactively tested by the manufacturer to officially confirm compatibility (they usually focus on future sales, not past sales).  So that's why there are a number of unofficial lists, like this esports list here, that you'd go and it confirms the aw2518hf works just fine (among others) with gsync compatible:  https://www.esportstales.com/tech-tips/list-of-nvidia-gsync-compatible-freesync-monitors-tested-by-community

It is important to note that this monitor isn't on the official list.  Only a small number of monitors are on the official Nvidia list - see the third tier, only monitors with the actual Nvidia chip are on the first two tiers).   (https://www.nvidia.com/en-us/geforce/products/g-sync-monitors/specs/) 

In any event, just an fyi that it hasn't been officially validated (sort of like how installing installing any third party non-OEM RAM is not officially validated) so Dell wouldn't provide any support to help you set this up. 

Hello there,

So I thought I should put on a post with the almost end product in case this might help anyone else in the future. I couldn't get hold of the Corsair PSU I had originally lined up so ended up picking out the Seasonic Focus 850X Platinum. Installing this was very straight forward and it fitted perfectly as earlier indicated.

I stuck with the Nvidia Geforce RTX 2070. Which also went in with no issues.

This appears to have solved my woes. I can play Warzone on full specs with no issues and I no longer get any Direct X error codes which I am now sure was down to my old graphic card not being able to keep up.

The only snag I have hit is that my disc drive no longer has a power cable going into it as the PSU didn't come with one suitable. I am also struggling to find the right cable and was hoping someone could help there. Does it have an official name etc?

The cable appears to be a small version of a SATA cable and has a P4 printed on the side of it. I have included a picture of the port below (Picture 3 at the the top to the left of the red SATA lead). Would making one up from my old PSU be achievable?

Do I also need to be concerned that I can no longer get the plastic support back in that took the weight of the end of the GPU? Should I look to find an alternative to this?

Thank you as always for the on-going help and support.

Finally figured out how to rotate that photo.  Need to upload it sideways for it to show straight. 

EDIT: nevermind

I left mine without the GPU bracket and it is fine.  The slot at the end holds it in pretty tight, especially with the case closed.  But you can buy a generic bracket on amazon too if you wanted. 

AFTER

@Ferno1003 :

Do I also need to be concerned that I can no longer get the plastic support back in that took the weight of the end of the GPU? Should I look to find an alternative to this?

No you don't need to be concerned. The backplate is holding things up well enough. Unless you are shipping the rig. Then it's best to have some support.

@GTS81 @Anonymous @r72019 Just wanted to say a massive thank you for all the help and advice you have kindly given me. You have redeemed my faith in forums I must say. I installed the slimline sata lead that you suggested and I'm now fully back in business with no more issues ....... for now.

Thanks again.