graphics card recommendation for dell optiplex 780

[Dale_14]

I need to upgrade graphics card so I can use an animation program (Daz Studio). I got an error saying I need to have a card that is Open GL.

I'm not a gamer so I don't think I really need a top-of-the-line card.

I am considering something like a NVIDIA GeForce GTX 750 Ti based on some of the posts I've seen like this:

http://www.tomshardware.com/answers/id-2586577/graphics-card-dell-optiplex-780-atx-tower.html

Here are the specs on my computer:

Dell Optiplex 780
Intel Core 2 Quad 2.83GHz
8 gb ram
64 bit operating system
maximum watts 255

I am a little concerned my power supply won't be able to handle the card. Would the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 750 Ti be OK in my computer?

Anyone have another better suggestion? Thanks for any help.

 

[jtk2515]

http://www.geforce.com/hardware/desktop-gpus/geforce-gtx-750-ti/specifications

Min spec for PSU is 300 watts as of Nvidia. Your CPU is 95w 750ti is 60w mobo around 50w. Even if it was a very high quality PSU it's still very close. You never gave us +12 rail amps or PSU model.

I would say dont use the 225w. Get a 40$ dollar PSU.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139026
20$ after 20$ rebate (btw most rebates are scams)

 

[Dale_14]

Thanks for the tips. I think my PSU model is OPW115.

So if I purchase the PSU you suggested, I should be able to just take it out and put the new one in? Luckily, my case is not SFF.

If I get the new card and the new psu, is there anything else I need to purchase or worry about? I'm fairly handy, but I don't have a lot of experience with upgrading hardware in a pc. Thanks for any suggestions.

 

[jtk2515]

The GTX 750 Ti is a lower end card. Is there a reason you chose that card? What resolution will you be using? Gaming?
Yes a new PSU and 750 ti will work but i'm not sure the 750 ti is your best option without more information. Just to Check you do have a PCIe slot correct?

 

[jcruzanski]

New RX lineup from AMD is low wattage... even the rx 460 will perform better than the 750ti. .. And cost less... And use less power.

 

[Dale_14]

According to the manual, the Optiplex 780 does appear to have a Express x16 slot:
http://ftp.dell.com/Manuals/all-products/esuprt_desktop/esuprt_optiplex_desktop/optiplex-780_Service%20Manual_en-us.pdf

I was looking for a card around $100-$150. I simply need to be able to do occasional animation renders using a program like Daz Studio. Daz won't even start for me now. It says I need a Open Gl card which is what got me started looking for a new card.

I have a BestBuy gift card (from an old return) so I'm trying to buy something from their site. I looked for an AMD rx 460 or something simlar, but couldn't find anything on BestBuy site.

I can get a basic card and a psu if needed. Would the GTX 750 Ti with a new psu be good or is there another better option for what I'm trying to do. I'm green about these things so thank you for any suggestions.

 

[Dale_14]

Would these two work for the Dell Optiplex 780:

PSU: http://www.bestbuy.com/site/evga-80-plus-600w-atx-12v-eps-12v-power-supply-black/8511029.p?id=1219693073473&skuId=8511029

Graphics Card: http://www.bestbuy.com/site/asus-oc-series-nvidia-geforce-gtx-750-ti-2gb-gddr5-pci-express-3-0-graphics-card/5066003.p?id=bb5066003&skuId=5066003

I usually buy from NewEgg but I got a BestBuy gift card.

Also, on different forum posts, I'm seeing mixed opinions about whether the above card will work with Optiplex 780 mini tower . Would this smaller card be better:

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/evga-geforce-gtx-750-ti-graphic-card-1-02-ghz-core-2-gb-gddr5-sdram-pci-express-3-0-x16/5114478.p?id=1219109716553&skuId=5114478

Thanks for any clarification.

 

[jtk2515]

If you dont have the space for a 10 inch card you can always get a PCIe riser or cut the CPU cooler shell. you will have to measure the PCIe slot to make sure the card will fit.

 

[Dale_14]

jtk2515 - the PCIe riser sounds like a great option. I've been looking, but do you know of a tutorial somewhere where I might be able to learn how to use this when installing a graphics card?