upgrading dimension e520 vid card

I have a budget of 100-200 dollars. Is there anything that you could suggest?  thank you.

What's your budget?

7000 series-up to 7950GT

8000 series-up to 8600GTS (+)?

ATI X1950 Pro 256 or 512MB can be had for around $149.  That is a directx 9 card but a great value for the performance.  I had one for a year and loved it.  That's my vote for you.  The card is 9" long but fits in the E520 no problem.  You would just need to get a molex to PCIe power adapter for use with the power supply.  And your stock E520 power supply will most likely be fine with that card.

 

Nvidia 8600GTS, from what I've read, is great for watching DVDs and editing video, but only average for gaming, but is a DX10 card.  You can probably get one on sale from newegg.com for right under $200, maybe $189.  Same thing as the X1950 Pro, you'd need a power supply connection I believe.

 

If you don't want a power supply connection you're going to have to look at perhaps the new HD2600 from ATI.... Or, something like the X1650 Pro, which is a step down from those listed above.  But, all are good cards and would be a major step up from what you have now.  Good luck.

alright, i'll check those thanks for the input

I have an 8600GTS in a 5150 (E510), yes it needs the Molex to PCI-e connector and runs a treat, it can also be easiliy overclocked using nTune.

 

I would look at the new 8800GT if buying now it should run in an E510/520 with stock psu with no problems.

thanks for the help/input. I was thinking of going ahead and getting this http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814130085. I have a question however. the video card item under memory type says gddr3 and the memory in my e520 says ddr2 sdram, would that present any problems? sorry if its a stupid question i'm not very knowledgeable about these things. thank you.

No