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| Refurbished Computers > Shopping Tips & Articles > Buying A Graphics Card |
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Buying A Graphics Card![]() One of the most important components on a computer is the graphics card. Depending on what you use your computer for, a graphics card can mean the difference between a dream and a nightmare. Hopefully what we have listed here will help you decide on what types and brands to look for. ![]() It All Depends On Your UsageWhat your primarily use your computer for should be the deciding factor on what to get. For simplicity's sake, we've categoried computer users into three general areas.
In the end it's all up to what you plan on using the computer for. Don't just spend $300 on a GForce and only use it to play solitaire, that'd be a waste. Plan for the future, and pick wisely because bigger and better cards are constantly entering the market. ![]() Video In/Out FunctionsThe biggest "new" feature in graphics cards today is the Video In/Out functions. If you plan on watching DVDs on television, watching television on your computer, or doing video editing from a camcorder, you'll need a very good graphics card with these features. In most cases this will involve additional cooling fans on the graphics card itself, so be prepared for more fan noise. ![]() PCI/AGP SocketsThere are two slot type of graphics cards PCI/AGP. Each is basically equal in power, PCI being the same as AGP. The reasoning for creating an AGP slot was that the PCI slots were being filled up with other junk. So whether you buy PCI or AGP you won't notice any difference. It's been said that AGP is better because it doesn't cause IRQ conflicts and works apart from other PCI components. AGP also has different speeds (1x, 2x, 4x...) so you'll want to check your motherboards specs to see what type of AGP card you can handle. With a PCI slot there is nothing to compare, any PCI card will work on any PCI slot. So with that, get an AGP slot type graphics card if possible. ![]() Video SupportThere are a few extra features that cards may or may not have that play a major part in certain activities:
You'll want to make sure you pick a card that supports these capabilities if you will be doing 3D modeling or video editing on your computer a lot. ![]() Support & DriversIt's always best to check out a manufacturer;s website before purchasing anything from them. Graphics cards are always being updated, and you'll want a well lain out website to help you download new drivers. The 3DFX Voodoo cards went out of business and so did their website. This meant finding driver updates would be harder, and newer updates not be published, which is a situation you seriously want to avoid. ![]() Read ReviewsOnce you've found a few cards that you like, it's always best to look at product reviews and see how well they work for others. Just going on your basic instincts, or trusting some John Doe is not enough. This is why we suggest doing some online research on a product before you make a purchase. Epinions and PriceGrabber are two great places to get user reviews of a certain graphics card. ![]() ConclusionSo, make sure your current computer can handle the video card you want! If you're looking for a good type, go with GForce or Radeon. These will provide users with high end graphics cards. Average users will want something from Diamond or ATI. ![]() Back To > Shopping Tips & Articles |
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