Vidcard for older machine

[PinataUT]

Options for lower end vid card

Gateway 832GM
Intel Pentium 4
3.0 GHz
1.0 GB RAM
250 GB HD
up to 224MB DDR (shared) video memory
Intel Graphics Medica Accelerator 900
Available expansion slots: 1 PCI, 1 PCI-E x16, 1 PCI-E x1

Assuming he can find room in the case, any suggestions for $80, $120, and maybe $150 vid cards that will let him play some relatively recent games at a passable framerate?

I'm assuming he's on XP.

 

[Uberbob102000]

I would recommend a 7900GS or 7/8600GT.

 

[Fel]

7900gs would be good for that machine. $120

 

[PinataUT]

Thanks, guys!

I think that will work out great for him.

Pin

 

[PinataUT]

Anyone know off hand whether or not an install on this card would be through jumper or BIOS?

Since this box has onboard, I'm guessing BIOS (will walk him through on the phone later - but if someone knew that off-hand a) I'd be amazed and b) I'd be happy ).

Card instructions read
"disable onboard graphics controllers either by jumper on the mainboard, or by changing graphics adapter priority in the BIOS, CMOS or hardware setup" for "mainboards with onboard graphics adapter/controller."

(he went with 8600GT - may get RAM later)

 

[misfisto]

8600gt + another gig of ram