Dell Optiplex 960, low profile video card selection help

[robbiesd]

Hello,
I'd like to add a low profile video card to my desktop size 960 w/E8600 CPU, 8Gb ram, DVD & 320Gb HD. The PS is rated @ 255w. Both PCI & PCIe x16 slots are available. Price isn't an issue. I just don't know what my power consumption limit should be and then what cards are good within that power limit. I don't mind shopping ebay for older models. I've seen suggestions for an HD 4350 based card. Can I do better?

 

[Pyree]

What do you use it for?

 

[robbiesd]

mostly business use

 

[Pyree]

The best you can do on low profile card is a 6750. But you are not going to game on it so it will be overkill. May be a 5450, but you still have to change the PSU.

 

[robbiesd]

Thanks Pyree,
I'm a real estate broker.
I want to run a second monitor.
I think my most demanding need is editing short home video tours.
I'd rather not change the PSU.

What would be below the 5450 that would not tax my PSU then?

 

[Pyree]

http://extreme.outervision.com/psucalculatorlite.jsp

I played around with it and I think the 5450 may actually work without psu change. But of course I don't know exactly how many device you have on your computer so I only put in the really standard component. You should try it.

Second opinion on wether 5450 works with 255w psu?

 

[robbiesd]

Thanks for the link, it's very helpful. I'd agree, this card should work with my current PSU.

 

[robbiesd]

Best answer selected by robbiesd.