[Tech Issue] Help upgrading graphics cards (was forum=21)Follow

Hello, I currently have Intel(R) 82845G/GL/GE/PE/GV Graphics Controller in my computer. The rest of my comp info is here:

Model: Presario s5200nx
Intel Celeron 2.70 GHz 2.69 GHz 1gb RAM

I do not know how it works with it being integrated, but I need to know how I can upgrade it without buying a new computer or spending too much. I've been reading but just don't understand the difference between AGP/PCI slots, or exactly what kind of card I need. I don't need to be anywhere near max settings but I'd like to be able to get above 10 FPS in mulgore ;)

Is there a way for me to upgrade this integrated card? What's a good, cheap replacement?

Thanks!! I think that is all I need for now :)

I use a NVIDIA GeForce 6200. It came from wal-mart, was between 60-80$. It is a PCI card type. It is better then the intergrated video card this Dell has.

The 6200 from wal mart that was mentioned is your BEST PCI option trust me.

As far as installing it goes take these steps, Before installing the new car in the computer in windows goto your device manager then look for display adapters and right click the onboard and choose disable. (DO NOT uninstall it). then shut down the computer and install the new card. and connect your monitor to it then boot up. at this point if you do NOT have video read my next paragraph otherwise, allow windows to load. install drivers. (I HIGHLY recommend downloading the 84.21 driver package from nvidia.com instead of the drivers from the cd. If you have windows XP). restart and you should be good to go.

If after installing the card you do not get video THEN and you will need to go into your BIOS and change a setting. using the onboard so you can see video of course. enter your motherboards BIOS (usually F2 at the beginning of POST) look for one of these options, Primary Graphics Adapter, Primary Video Adapter or INIT display first. you will find one of those three change it to detect the PCI slot save and exit. the computer will restart. if the new card is still in the computer you can just move the monitor cable during the restart and you should have video.

If after all that it still does not work try updating the BIOS on your motherboard (from the motherboard manufactures website) after all that then I recommend calling the video card tech support.

Hope this helps you and anyone else who may need it.