Compaq CQ3030AN Graphics

[taz roca]

Can I add a graphics expansion card to my Compaq CQ3030A

I recently updated my mums Presario CQ3030AN to Windows 7 and now system is lagging.
The performance score is currently
3.1 for Desktop performance for Windows Aero &
3.3 for 3D business & graphics performance
(CPU:6,RAM:5.5 & HDD5.9)

I have updated all graphics drivers without improvement & figured the system is in need a graphics card to handle the extra load of windows 7. Is this the correct path I should be heading down to get her PC running smoothly again or should I be looking at other solutions. If a graphics card is what's in order, could someone please suggest a compatible model?

System has duel core cpu @ 2.5GHz, is 64 bit, with 2G RAM. Not sure what other info is required to answer this question, but will supply any further stats requested.

FOUND THIS INFO: •Integrated graphics using Intel GMA 3100
Also supports PCI Express x16 graphics cards


SO: CAN SOMEONE PLEASE SUGGEST A COMPATABLE GRAPHICS CARD?


Fingers Crossed.

 

[bistwo]

The integrated graphics on that computer are outdated and will not perform to modern standards. Consider adding a PCI-E graphics card.

 

[taz roca]

The system supports PCI Express x16 graphics cards. Any chance you can suggest a compatible card? I am right on the edge of my understanding here. all good for cards, thanks

 

[iballew]

From my experience of using windows 7 on many different machines, the minimum amount of memory it runs smoothly on is 3gb. I recommend you upgrade to at least 4 gbs of ram and I guarantee most of your problems will go away. As for an adequate graphics card, unless your mom is a hardcore gamer, (something tells me shes not) the gt 720 will suffice. It will not only run windows smoothly, but also excel at playing hd video like netflix or youtube. All you have to do is pop the graphics card into the pci e x16 slot on your motherboard and your good to go.

compatable ram: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Komputerbay-800MHz-PC2-6300-PC2-6400-Desktop/dp/B004LTCHW0/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1424908246&sr=8-5&keywords=PC2-6400

gt 720: http://www.amazon.co.uk/PNY-GeForce-720-1GB-Experience/dp/B00MRQHUM6/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1424908487&sr=8-13&keywords=gt+720

 

[tazroca]

From my experience of using windows 7 on many different machines, the minimum amount of memory it runs smoothly on is 3gb. I recommend you upgrade to at least 4 gbs of ram and I guarantee most of your problems will go away. As for an adequate graphics card, unless your mom is a hardcore gamer, (something tells me shes not) the gt 720 will suffice. It will not only run windows smoothly, but also excel at playing hd video like netflix or youtube. All you have to do is pop the graphics card into the pci e x16 slot on your motherboard and your good to go.

compatable ram: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Komputerbay-800MHz-PC2-6300-PC2-6400-Desktop/dp/B004LTCHW0/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1424908246&sr=8-5&keywords=PC2-6400

gt 720: http://www.amazon.co.uk/PNY-GeForce-720-1GB-Experience/dp/B00MRQHUM6/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1424908487&sr=8-13&keywords=gt+720

Thanks heaps iballew. Appreciate the info and the links. tazroca

 

[iballew]

It turns out your computer only has two ram slots, therefore, you will have to install two 2gb sticks. Here is an updated link to memory that will work. I recommend you upgrade the bios before installing more memory.

http://www.amazon.com/Komputerbay-800MHz-PC2-6300-PC2-6400-Desktop/dp/B004LT6O56/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1424989700&sr=8-2&keywords=PC2-6400