Upgrading Desktop

[leader2345]

Hello everyone,

I have a desktop that I want to upgrade to a gaming Desktop. Here are the specifications of my desktop.

System Information
------------------
Time of this report: 10/28/2011, 19:16:53
Machine name: PC-00
Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 3 (2600.xpsp_sp3_gdr.101209-1647)
Language: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: ECS
System Model: 945GCT-M2
BIOS: Default System BIOS
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) Dual CPU E2180 @ 2.00GHz (2 CPUs)
Memory: 2040MB RAM
Page File: 599MB used, 2813MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)

Display Devices
---------------
Card name: Intel(R) 82945G Express Chipset Family
Manufacturer: Intel Corporation
Chip type: Intel(R) 82945G Express Chipset Family
DAC type: Internal
Device Key: Enum\PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_2772&SUBSYS_26331019&REV_02
Display Memory: 128.0 MB
Current Mode: 1024 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Res: 1600,1200

Should I upgrade the CPU or get a graphics card or should I build a PC from scratch? I would want to play the latest PC games. Thanks in advance.

 

[casualbuilder]

Best bet is from scratch, but we could technically piece together. Honestly, it wouldn't be worth the money for an upgrade imo, just start over.

 

[spp85]

You should build a PC from scratch in order to play BF3 like games at its max quality setting.

 

[Wisecracker]

You listed everything -- except what we really need: your power supply!

Snag an HD 6870 1GB for $150. That should run great at 16x12 in DX9 for BF3.

You didn't list your specific motherboard vendor -- is this your board?

Probably not a 'high-flyer' but the E2180 was a budget-gaming monster for its time. You could probably get a small OC out of it on your motherboard without too much difficulty.

IF you must get a new power supply (likely), be sure to snag a model you may move to a new rig along with your video card.

 

[Onus]

The PSU in your rig was probably something minimally sized for the installed components, with little if any margin for upgrades. Assuming it is at least 300W, the strongest card it is likely to support is a HD6670. That card would be a reasonable match for your CPU, and could play most games, especially at your current 1024x768 resolution. Any higher, and any recent game would need to have settings turned down, possibly a lot. This may not be a bad idea if you're just looking to get your feet wet and see if gaming is for you, or to find out what kinds of games you would most like to play.
Otherwise, anticipate that you'll probably need to spend close to $800-$900 (includes the cost of a copy of Windows 7 Home Premium, but not a new monitor) to build a new PC capable of playing the latest games at "good" (high, but not necessarily "ultra") settings, and closer to $1200 if you want "ultra" settings.

Edit: If, however, this was an older office PC you snagged somewhere and want to turn into a gamer, expect to spend no less than $300 for an upgraded PSU and as powerful a GPU as your relatively weak CPU can handle; something like a 500W Antec EA-500D and a HD6870 or GTX560.

 

[leader2345]

You listed everything -- except what we really need: your power supply!

Snag an HD 6870 1GB for $150. That should run great at 16x12 in DX9 for BF3.

You didn't list your specific motherboard vendor -- is this your board?

Probably not a 'high-flyer' but the E2180 was a budget-gaming monster for its time. You could probably get a small OC out of it on your motherboard without too much difficulty.

IF you must get a new power supply (likely), be sure to snag a model you may move to a new rig along with your video card.

My motherboard vendor is ECS. The model number is 945GCT-M2.

My PSU is from the Headway maufacturer. The PSU is 450W.

 

[Onus]

Hmmm, I've never heard of that brand. I would assume it is an overrated generic. You'll need to replace it.

 

[leader2345]

Ok, I have decided that I will build my PC from scratch to play the latest games on high settings.

 

[leader2345]

Best answer selected by leader2345.

 

[Onus]

Thanks. Feel free to start a thread in the New Builds section for help on selecting parts. Please use the format of the sticky on how to ask for new build advice.