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This is such an ambiguous title.
Okay so. I, like countless others, am preparing for the SC2 Beta and eventual release. Now I wanna make sure I can run it smoothly and have it still look good. Now it's been a long time since I've been into the hardware world of computers so I would just like people's opinions on whether or not I am SC2 ready.
I would prefer not having to buy a whole new rig, but hopefully just a GFX card.
CPU:
AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual Core Processor 3800+
2 cores (obviously)
x10.0 multiplyer (no idea what this means)
Bus speed: 200.4 mhz
Memory:
2gig DDR Ram. Not DDR2, but I hear the difference is not too big.
PC3200 (200 mhz)
GFX:
Geforece 7600GT.
Now, I remember that my processor used to be really powerful, but I'm just wondering how it will stand with a modern title. I also know that AMD's have slower clock speed but can be more powerful. WhaT I don't know is how much of the load will be on CPU and how much will be on the GFX card.
As for my Card, I'm already prepared to get a new one since my old one is obviously ghetto. I was thinking:
GeForce 9800 GTX+ OC 512MB PCI-E
Now 2 questions. Is it worth it to get a GFX Card like this, or is the main thing holding me back my CPU or Memory?
Secondly, how there's a Radeon that's 100 bucks cheaper and has 1024mb. I assume that the gfx memory is not as important as it sounds, considering the price difference, and that there are other factors. Unless I am wrong, and the 1024 card is superior and cheaper at the same time.
I would really appreciate help with these decisions. And hopefully it may help some others in their preparations for becoming sc2 compatible.
 
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Graphics cards are a large part not about the amount of graphics ram they can produce, I think going with the 9800 GTX+ will have you set for the next two and a half years, maybe 3. As for your computer I think you'll be able to run SC2 at near highest settings. =]
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T.O.P.
Hong Kong4685 Posts
The amount of graphics memory is not important in graphics performance. Memory speeds are much more important. Gddr5>Gddr3>DDR3>DDR2. I think the ATI 48__ series is better. The 4830, 4850, or 4870 will all play sc2 at the highest settings probably. The ATI 4670 will probably do fine too.
edit: If you get the Nvidia 9800 or the ATI 48__ series video card then you will be limited by your cpu instead of your gpu. The AMD 3800+ processor is the bottleneck in games when you combine it with such a powerful cpu. RTS games are known to use a bigger ratio of cpu power compared to gpu power. Upgrading your cpu isn't very expensive. The AMD X2 5800+ only costs 60 dollars on newegg.
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On March 25 2009 09:08 T.O.P. wrote:
The amount of graphics memory is not important in graphics performance. Memory speeds are much more important. Gddr5>Gddr3>DDR3>DDR2. I think the ATI 48__ series is better. The 4830, 4850, or 4870 will all play sc2 at the highest settings probably. The ATI 4670 will probably do fine too.
edit: If you get the Nvidia 9800 or the ATI 48__ series video card then you will be limited by your cpu instead of your gpu. The AMD 3800+ processor is the bottleneck in games when you combine it with such a powerful cpu. RTS games are known to use a bigger ratio of cpu power compared to gpu power. Upgrading your cpu isn't very expensive. The AMD X2 5800+ only costs 60 dollars on newegg.
THat would be compatible with my Mobo? Is it really that simple?
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T.O.P.
Hong Kong4685 Posts
On March 25 2009 09:17 404.Nintu wrote:
THat would be compatible with my Mobo? Is it really that simple?
If the cpu is compatible with your mobo, then you just have to take out the old cpu and put in the new one. You might have to install a new BIOS if the motherboard company updated the BIOS to support new processors.
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Good answers. I actually had a friend come in vent and answer a bunch of my questions as well. So I appreciate all the responses and it's been super helpful. =)
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I'm guessing your current rig would run SC2, though not at highest settings.
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A CPU upgrade shouldn't be necessary though. Just get a 9800 or 4850 and you'll easily be able to run Starcraft 2.
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In an attempt to steal some advice from this thread :D, do you think my computer is sc2 ready? (i highly doubt it though)
CPU:
Intel Core 2 CPU 6300 @ 1.86 GHz (7.1 multiplyer)
clock speed: 1.59 GHz, 1.00 GB
Memory:
2 x 512 mb ddr2 @ 333 MHz
GFX:
2 x Radeon X1300/X1600 series (this is probably very bad, there are two of them though)
Please be gentle when making fun of my puny computer.
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7600 gt is going to be just fine. directx 10 will probably not make much of a difference in starcraft 2, and most games that use directx 10 well require $1500+ comps.
ok so your graphic card is just fine. upgrade ram to 4gb (ddr2 667mhz at least). you will probably need tons of ram as you do with most modern games. 2gb is cutting it. unless you are running xp. if you are running exp, 2gb is more than enough.
about your cpu, you will need an upgrade. your cpu is way slower than your graphics card right now, and this bottleneck is not good. upgrade the cpu maybe to a AMDx2 5000+ at least. that is the only REAL upgrade you need to enjoy sc2.
ok so...
if you are running vista, get 4gb of 667+ ram
if xp, stay at 2 gb.
get cpu upgrade.
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On March 25 2009 09:46 Gnojfatelob wrote:
In an attempt to steal some advice from this thread :D, do you think my computer is sc2 ready? (i highly doubt it though)
CPU:
Intel Core 2 CPU 6300 @ 1.86 GHz
clock speed: 1.59 GHz, 1.00 GB
Memory:
2 x 512 mb ddr2 @ 333 MHz
GFX:
2 x Radeon X1300/X1600 series (this is probably very bad, there are two of them though)
Please be gentle when making fun of my puny computer.
tell us the os. if its xp, you need to upgrade to 2gb, if vista you need 4gb.
yes you definitely need a ram upgrade.
you defeinitely need a graphics card upgrade. if your power supply is strong enough, post the max output W, then you can get another single strong card.
single stronger >>>double weaker, always.
your cpu is good enough im pretty sure of it. the core 2 duo architecture is very powerful.
probably high-highest settings with respective upgrades.
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On March 25 2009 09:46 Gnojfatelob wrote:
In an attempt to steal some advice from this thread :D, do you think my computer is sc2 ready? (i highly doubt it though)
CPU:
Intel Core 2 CPU 6300 @ 1.86 GHz (7.1 multiplyer)
clock speed: 1.59 GHz, 1.00 GB
Memory:
2 x 512 mb ddr2 @ 333 MHz
GFX:
2 x Radeon X1300/X1600 series (this is probably very bad, there are two of them though)
Please be gentle when making fun of my puny computer.
Maybe @ lowest settings imo from what I've seen of it. Ur computer looks about 3/4 years old anyways time for an upgrade mang!
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On March 25 2009 09:52 epicdoom wrote:Show nested quote +On March 25 2009 09:46 Gnojfatelob wrote:
In an attempt to steal some advice from this thread :D, do you think my computer is sc2 ready? (i highly doubt it though)
CPU:
Intel Core 2 CPU 6300 @ 1.86 GHz (7.1 multiplyer)
clock speed: 1.59 GHz, 1.00 GB
Memory:
2 x 512 mb ddr2 @ 333 MHz
GFX:
2 x Radeon X1300/X1600 series (this is probably very bad, there are two of them though)
Please be gentle when making fun of my puny computer. Maybe @ lowest settings imo from what I've seen of it. Ur computer looks about 3/4 years old anyways time for an upgrade mang!
lol???? heck no... he will run it fine...with the upgrades i proposed.
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Oops, posted like a second after you did. I was talking before upgrades
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On March 25 2009 09:50 ramen247 wrote:Show nested quote +On March 25 2009 09:46 Gnojfatelob wrote:
In an attempt to steal some advice from this thread :D, do you think my computer is sc2 ready? (i highly doubt it though)
CPU:
Intel Core 2 CPU 6300 @ 1.86 GHz
clock speed: 1.59 GHz, 1.00 GB
Memory:
2 x 512 mb ddr2 @ 333 MHz
GFX:
2 x Radeon X1300/X1600 series (this is probably very bad, there are two of them though)
Please be gentle when making fun of my puny computer. tell us the os. if its xp, you need to upgrade to 2gb, if vista you need 4gb. yes you definitely need a ram upgrade. you defeinitely need a graphics card upgrade. if your power supply is strong enough, post the max output W, then you can get another single strong card. single stronger >>>double weaker, always. your cpu is good enough im pretty sure of it. the core 2 duo architecture is very powerful. probably high-highest settings with respective upgrades.
My os is xp, so i need 2gb ram, so far i'm getting it. But how do i find out my maximum power output of my pc??
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Pft, this is obviously a covert way to show off your fancy pants pc, nintu >=(
 <3
I, on the other hand, have 512 mb ram (I think, i might've lost some) 3 ghz single core processor and a GeForce 5100 >_>
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On March 25 2009 10:06 Gnojfatelob wrote:Show nested quote +On March 25 2009 09:50 ramen247 wrote:On March 25 2009 09:46 Gnojfatelob wrote:
In an attempt to steal some advice from this thread :D, do you think my computer is sc2 ready? (i highly doubt it though)
CPU:
Intel Core 2 CPU 6300 @ 1.86 GHz
clock speed: 1.59 GHz, 1.00 GB
Memory:
2 x 512 mb ddr2 @ 333 MHz
GFX:
2 x Radeon X1300/X1600 series (this is probably very bad, there are two of them though)
Please be gentle when making fun of my puny computer. tell us the os. if its xp, you need to upgrade to 2gb, if vista you need 4gb. yes you definitely need a ram upgrade. you defeinitely need a graphics card upgrade. if your power supply is strong enough, post the max output W, then you can get another single strong card. single stronger >>>double weaker, always. your cpu is good enough im pretty sure of it. the core 2 duo architecture is very powerful. probably high-highest settings with respective upgrades. My os is xp, so i need 2gb ram, so far i'm getting it. But how do i find out my maximum power output of my pc??
open it up, ad look for the power supply (its a metal box where the power cable is connected to. read around and look for max output. the units is watts
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On March 25 2009 10:18 404.Delirium wrote:Pft, this is obviously a covert way to show off your fancy pants pc, nintu >=( <3 I, on the other hand, have 512 mb ram (I think, i might've lost some) 3 ghz single core processor and a GeForce 5100 >_>
Haha, his isn't even close to fancy pants.
Nintu, that will definitely run SC2, but I doubt it would run it on high settings or on a high resolution. I am running SLI'd 7900GT's w/ 2gigs of ram and I am going to upgrade.
The guy who said get a 9800GTX is right IMO, better to get a card like that.
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On March 25 2009 10:47 Salv wrote:Show nested quote +On March 25 2009 10:18 404.Delirium wrote:Pft, this is obviously a covert way to show off your fancy pants pc, nintu >=( <3 I, on the other hand, have 512 mb ram (I think, i might've lost some) 3 ghz single core processor and a GeForce 5100 >_> Haha, his isn't even close to fancy pants. Nintu, that will definitely run SC2, but I doubt it would run it on high settings or on a high resolution. I am running SLI'd 7900GT's w/ 2gigs of ram and I am going to upgrade. The guy who said get a 9800GTX is right IMO, better to get a card like that.
Compared to mine. =P
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On March 25 2009 09:08 T.O.P. wrote:
The amount of graphics memory is not important in graphics performance. Memory speeds are much more important. Gddr5>Gddr3>DDR3>DDR2. I think the ATI 48__ series is better. The 4830, 4850, or 4870 will all play sc2 at the highest settings probably. The ATI 4670 will probably do fine too.
edit: If you get the Nvidia 9800 or the ATI 48__ series video card then you will be limited by your cpu instead of your gpu. The AMD 3800+ processor is the bottleneck in games when you combine it with such a powerful cpu. RTS games are known to use a bigger ratio of cpu power compared to gpu power. Upgrading your cpu isn't very expensive. The AMD X2 5800+ only costs 60 dollars on newegg.
You have this all messed up GDDR speed is irreverent because throughput speed must be established ATI goes for the flashier way of increasing GDDR speeds up to GDDR5. Nvidia does it the other way by increasing the memory interface relatively Nvidia cards are usually more optimized to the amount of memory it holds at stock production while ati sticks to the 2power numbers 256 512 1024, Also ATI only uses the expensive memeory for their highest end cards else everything just get GDDR3. You can't judge performance of a card but specs alone really 60% of the real performance comes from the gpu chip series it comes from ie. G92, R770 etc.
Thank about getting a GTS 250 it's just a renamed 9800GTX+ The GTS 250 versions are smaller cards with usually only 1 pcie 6 pin needed. And performance is near exactly the same don't count oc cards though. The ATI equivalent in performance to the GTS 250/9800GTX+ is 4850
With your current build GTS 250/ 4850 will be more then enough to get limited by your cpu/ram set up so i wouldn't go anything higher then that but you may consider a cheaper 4830/9800GT if you so desire seeing as you live in Canada prices aren't as close as in America so iono what the real price diff between those 2 performance classes.
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okay so I'm thinking of just getting the 9800GT and seeing how things go. Another quick question: Is it worth it to upgrade the CPU on this current Mobo? If I get the gfx card and then later decide on a cpu aswell, will the CPU be limited by my mobo? I hear things like front-side bus and cache and junk like that.
Is it a wise decision to go 9800 GT, about 250$, and then say an AMD X2 5800+ for about 80$? Are these upgrades a good concept or will they be limited by Ram/Mobo.
Also, Instead of upgrading to a new computer with DDR2, would it be worth it to just compensate by throwing in a gig or 2 more of DDR1 in this rig? Also, I'm on XP, so I assume 2gigs is enough ram.
REALLY appreciate all the help so far.
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T.O.P.
Hong Kong4685 Posts
On March 25 2009 11:19 404.Nintu wrote:
okay so I'm thinking of just getting the 9800GT and seeing how things go. Another quick question: Is it worth it to upgrade the CPU on this current Mobo? If I get the gfx card and then later decide on a cpu aswell, will the CPU be limited by my mobo? I hear things like front-side bus and cache and junk like that.
Is it a wise decision to go 9800 GT, about 250$, and then say an AMD X2 5800+ for about 80$? Are these upgrades a good concept or will they be limited by Ram/Mobo.
Also, Instead of upgrading to a new computer with DDR2, would it be worth it to just compensate by throwing in a gig or 2 more of DDR1 in this rig? Also, I'm on XP, so I assume 2gigs is enough ram.
REALLY appreciate all the help so far.
I wouldn't upgrade the cpu because your setup is so old. Try getting a video card first. The 9800 GT only costs $100 dollars in newegg. The ATI 4830 is available for $80 dollars. The 4830 offers better performance in some games while tying with 9800GT with others.
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Dominican Republic463 Posts
Man tech threads on TL.net have sooo much more info then you can skim on the net for my exact needs its amazing  im planning on buying some new stuff soon too, getting ready for SC2 and im gonna have to save some money.
+1
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You guys think a HD4650 could run sc2?
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On March 25 2009 12:01 T.O.P. wrote:Show nested quote +On March 25 2009 11:19 404.Nintu wrote:
okay so I'm thinking of just getting the 9800GT and seeing how things go. Another quick question: Is it worth it to upgrade the CPU on this current Mobo? If I get the gfx card and then later decide on a cpu aswell, will the CPU be limited by my mobo? I hear things like front-side bus and cache and junk like that.
Is it a wise decision to go 9800 GT, about 250$, and then say an AMD X2 5800+ for about 80$? Are these upgrades a good concept or will they be limited by Ram/Mobo.
Also, Instead of upgrading to a new computer with DDR2, would it be worth it to just compensate by throwing in a gig or 2 more of DDR1 in this rig? Also, I'm on XP, so I assume 2gigs is enough ram.
REALLY appreciate all the help so far. I wouldn't upgrade the cpu because your setup is so old. Try getting a video card first. The 9800 GT only costs $100 dollars in newegg. The ATI 4830 is available for $80 dollars. The 4830 offers better performance in some games while tying with 9800GT with others.
He can't he has DDR ram means he has 393 socket which AMD 5800 isn't a 393 socket SC2 will be cpu heavy because it's an rts game usues more of the cpu so you may consider getting a new cpu but to do that it would be a 3 parter cpu ram and mobo.
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Dominican Republic463 Posts
Izzy which new CPU would you consider best bang for your buck atm, just for SC2. Either intel/AMD, dont have a preference. I used a Pentium D(lol I know its bad) but I just really played wow and lesser demanding games.
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United States22883 Posts
On March 25 2009 12:34 SwaY- wrote:
Izzy which new CPU would you consider best bang for your buck atm, just for SC2. Either intel/AMD, dont have a preference. I used a Pentium D(lol I know its bad) but I just really played wow and lesser demanding games.
WAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTER
WAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTER
WAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTER
WAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTER
WAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTER
WAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTER
WAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTER
WAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTER
WAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTER
Whatever's the best bang for the buck atm is irrelevant because you should be WAITING UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTER.
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Dominican Republic463 Posts
On March 25 2009 12:45 Jibba wrote:Show nested quote +On March 25 2009 12:34 SwaY- wrote:
Izzy which new CPU would you consider best bang for your buck atm, just for SC2. Either intel/AMD, dont have a preference. I used a Pentium D(lol I know its bad) but I just really played wow and lesser demanding games. WAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWhatever's the best bang for the buck atm is irrelevant because you should be WAITING UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTER.
No  , my CPU is frying as we speak. And I have waited long enough, that was the plan originally but I have come to need a new comp(been waiting for years to change my comp stalling because of SC2)... and we're close enough, beta is just around the corner.
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T.O.P.
Hong Kong4685 Posts
On March 25 2009 12:25 MeriaDoKk wrote:
You guys think a HD4650 could run sc2?
Yes, it will run sc2 for sure.
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United States22883 Posts
On March 25 2009 12:48 SwaY- wrote:Show nested quote +On March 25 2009 12:45 Jibba wrote:On March 25 2009 12:34 SwaY- wrote:
Izzy which new CPU would you consider best bang for your buck atm, just for SC2. Either intel/AMD, dont have a preference. I used a Pentium D(lol I know its bad) but I just really played wow and lesser demanding games. WAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWAIT UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTERWhatever's the best bang for the buck atm is irrelevant because you should be WAITING UNTIL SC2 BEFORE BUYING A SC2 COMPUTER. No , my CPU is frying as we speak. And I have waited long enough, that was the plan originally but I have come to need a new comp(been waiting for years to change my comp stalling because of SC2)... and we're close enough, beta is just around the corner.
And have you gotten into the beta?
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Have system requirements been released for sc2 yet? I'm going to upgrade my girlfriends computer, and the only thing she really does is word processing, web browsing, messaging etc, and plays SC.
right now she's running
AMD Sempron @ 2.20
1GB RAM
Diamond Radeon HD 2400 256MB
2x Generic 80 gig hard drives (7200 RPM)
yes, this is a standard computer of 3 or 4 years ago. It has served her fine and probably will serve her fine for a while, but she wants to play sc2. Therefore, here are the upgrades i'm planning on doing:
AMD Sempron @ 2.20 -> AMD Athlon 64 X2 4800+ ($54.96)
1GB RAM -> 3GB RAM ($14.99)
Diamond Radeon HD 2400 256MB -> XFX GeForce 8600 1GB ($59.99)
= 129.94
Yes, i realise i'm upgrading from a PCI card to a PCI-E card, but her computer came with 1 PCI-E and one PCI slot.
Do you think these upgrades will run SC2? should i go a little faster?
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Just buy a complete new one all these half assed upgrades, your motherboard will probably die 2weeks after starcraft 2 is released and then you will be facepalming yourself.
Most of the time buying a complete new pc is cheaper anyway especially when your pc is outdated like that.
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On March 25 2009 12:34 SwaY- wrote:
Izzy which new CPU would you consider best bang for your buck atm, just for SC2. Either intel/AMD, dont have a preference. I used a Pentium D(lol I know its bad) but I just really played wow and lesser demanding games.
E5200
$70 at Newegg.
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On March 25 2009 13:42 xmShake wrote:Show nested quote +On March 25 2009 12:34 SwaY- wrote:
Izzy which new CPU would you consider best bang for your buck atm, just for SC2. Either intel/AMD, dont have a preference. I used a Pentium D(lol I know its bad) but I just really played wow and lesser demanding games. E5200 $70 at Newegg.
yup, I'm building a computer very soon and I'm going with that CPU ^^
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Dominican Republic463 Posts
Thanks, and no Jibba. I dont even plan on playing beta, just saying since beta is close, game is also close(as in more or less a year away  )
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On March 25 2009 13:28 Ziph wrote:
Just buy a complete new one all these half assed upgrades, your motherboard will probably die 2weeks after starcraft 2 is released and then you will be facepalming yourself.
Most of the time buying a complete new pc is cheaper anyway especially when your pc is outdated like that.
for one, money is an issue here. I'm already stressed to pay 129 USD, because i make about 650USD a month, and most of that goes to food/other living expenses, not only that, the pc is perfectly stable, and i upgraded the power supply to a 500watt a couple of months ago, so there will be no problems like that.
So, can anyone actually tell me if this is close to the mark? I based my upgrades off of Red Alert 3, which runs fine on a friends computer at mid settings which has almost the same specs (-1GB of RAM)
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On March 25 2009 13:49 ghermination wrote:Show nested quote +On March 25 2009 13:28 Ziph wrote:
Just buy a complete new one all these half assed upgrades, your motherboard will probably die 2weeks after starcraft 2 is released and then you will be facepalming yourself.
Most of the time buying a complete new pc is cheaper anyway especially when your pc is outdated like that. for one, money is an issue here. I'm already stressed to pay 129 USD, because i make about 650USD a month, and most of that goes to food/other living expenses, not only that, the pc is perfectly stable, and i upgraded the power supply to a 500watt a couple of months ago, so there will be no problems like that. So, can anyone actually tell me if this is close to the mark? I based my upgrades off of Red Alert 3, which runs fine on a friends computer at mid settings which has almost the same specs (-1GB of RAM)
8600GT for $60? It'll work, but it's not exactly the best price-performance ratio. Go for the Radeon HD 4670 instead. As for the CPU, if you want to save a little more money, there's no harm in getting a little bit weaker Athlon 64 X2, you won't notice that much difference (I'm assuming you made sure that the CPU and motherboard are compatible)
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United States22883 Posts
On March 25 2009 13:48 SwaY- wrote:Thanks, and no Jibba. I dont even plan on playing beta, just saying since beta is close, game is also close(as in more or less a year away )
Yeah, cause computers never change in just a year.
I know you have an impulse to buy now, but you shouldn't unless your computer dies.
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United States3824 Posts
As far as your CPU you can look into switching over to the AMD Athlons X2 that runs at lower voltages. I think it maxes out at the 5600 series which is pretty sweet. last time I checked it was like 50$ at newegg. I was thinking of switching over to it.
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On March 25 2009 08:49 404.Nintu wrote:
This is such an ambiguous title.
Okay so. I, like countless others, am preparing for the SC2 Beta and eventual release. Now I wanna make sure I can run it smoothly and have it still look good. Now it's been a long time since I've been into the hardware world of computers so I would just like people's opinions on whether or not I am SC2 ready.
Considering how ridiculously low the specs required to run Blizzard games are, you will likely be able to look at the system requirements of Warcraft III (or World of Warcraft) and use those as a guide. Your computer should be fine as it is, but it's always a good time to tweak your system.
I would prefer not having to buy a whole new rig, but hopefully just a GFX card.
How much are you willing to spend? If you have some extra money to throw around, perhaps you could upgrade other parts of the computer.
CPU:
AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual Core Processor 3800+
2 cores (obviously)
x10.0 multiplyer (no idea what this means)
Bus speed: 200.4 mhz
Would help to know what motherboard you have. Bus speed seems a bit low.
You can upgrade to a 5800+ for a mere $60. That's a very significant boost for very little money.
Memory:
2gig DDR Ram. Not DDR2, but I hear the difference is not too big.
PC3200 (200 mhz)
Ok something is definitely wrong with your speed here. DDR3200 is 333 MHz. At no additional cost to you, you should go in to the BIOS settings and change this to 333. Which setting you do that with is dependent on your BIOS software.
GFX:
Geforece 7600GT.
Not a bad little card right there. It actually should do just fine with SC2. I'd put money on it. With your system I actually wouldn't suggest going beyond an NVidia GeForce 9800GT, as anything more powerful will go unused as the rest of the system will bottleneck it. The good manufacturers of this card (eVGA. Gigabyte, and ASUS) sell this card for about $130.
Now, I remember that my processor used to be really powerful, but I'm just wondering how it will stand with a modern title. I also know that AMD's have slower clock speed but can be more powerful. WhaT I don't know is how much of the load will be on CPU and how much will be on the GFX card.
It varies from game to game. Your current rig would have trouble running Crysis (which is actually a year old now), and probably could not run Far Cry 2. Both of those are graphically intensive games.
You could run Unreal Tournament III, EvE Online (Premium Client), Battlefield 2142, and Left 4 Dead pretty well. Team Fortress 2 would do very well, possibly even max settings.
As for my Card, I'm already prepared to get a new one since my old one is obviously ghetto. I was thinking:
GeForce 9800 GTX+ OC 512MB PCI-E
If you're going to stick with DDR memory, stick with my recommendation about the 9800 GT. If you want the GTX+, you would need to get a new mobo that supports DDR2 memory. DDR2 memory, now that it has reached its peak is on the road to being phased out. What that means for you is that you will be getting top-of-the-line DDR2 memory for very, very low cost. But you still have to purchase a new mobo. At that point it would be pretty much a new rig, as if you're going to upgrade the memory, you might as well upgrade the CPU, too. So everything kinda gets sticky when you talk about DDR2 memory.
Despite that, it would be my recommendation to just do it. Your CPU is showing its age, your memory is practically ancient in computer age, and you want a new graphics card, anyways. Take the extra leap and grab yourself a new motherboard. AMD 64 X2 mobo's, like everything else that I mentioned upgrading, are going to be cheap as all get-out.
Now 2 questions. Is it worth it to get a GFX Card like this, or is the main thing holding me back my CPU or Memory?
From what you've listed so far it's your memory holding you back, and that's because it's set to a lower speed than it should be. Bring it up to 333MHz, and it will be on par with the rest of your system. Your hard drive (which you didn't mention) could also be a bottleneck if it's an older generation 5400 RPM.
Secondly, how there's a Radeon that's 100 bucks cheaper and has 1024mb. I assume that the gfx memory is not as important as it sounds, considering the price difference, and that there are other factors. Unless I am wrong, and the 1024 card is superior and cheaper at the same time.
That's a common misconception, one I even made with my last computer. Graphical memory is not as important as speed and other specifications. What you really want to look for is the core clock speed, memory clock speed, and stream processors. After that, what memory type (GDDR5, 3, 2, etc), and lastly: how much video memory is on it, but it's a last consideration. To make things easier: 1GB video memory is pretty much the standard nowadays. Go from there, but they have the 9800GT and GTX+ available in that memory size.
I use newegg to buy virtually all of my PC parts, and the single biggest determining factor as to whether or not I buy something is customer reviews. The tech gurus like me will let me know if it's stable, runs cool, and other important things that will generally make my life easier, because I hate fucking around with a half-assed piece of hardware.
On March 25 2009 11:19 404.Nintu wrote:
okay so I'm thinking of just getting the 9800GT and seeing how things go. Another quick question: Is it worth it to upgrade the CPU on this current Mobo? If I get the gfx card and then later decide on a cpu aswell, will the CPU be limited by my mobo? I hear things like front-side bus and cache and junk like that.
I've pretty much covered that already. I think you should get a new mobo, memory, and graphics card.
Is it a wise decision to go 9800 GT, about 250$, and then say an AMD X2 5800+ for about 80$? Are these upgrades a good concept or will they be limited by Ram/Mobo.
9800GT is $130-$150 on newegg. X2 5800+ is $70 on newegg.
Also, Instead of upgrading to a new computer with DDR2, would it be worth it to just compensate by throwing in a gig or 2 more of DDR1 in this rig? Also, I'm on XP, so I assume 2gigs is enough ram.
REALLY appreciate all the help so far.
If you do go with the 9800GT, you can just stick to DDR1 and maybe upgrade the CPU. I'm not sure how much memory XP 32-bit can see and use, but Vista 32-bit can only use 3gb. XP 32-bit may be (but also may not be) less than that.
My complete recommendation:
- Motherboard: ASUS AM2+/AM2 AMD 780G HDMI Micro ATX $80
- CPU: AMD Athlon 64 X2 5800+ Brisbane 3.0GHz 2 x 512KB L2 Cache Socket AM2 89W Dual-Core Processor $60
- Memory: Corsair Dominator 4GB (2 x 2GB) DDR2 1066 (PC2 8500) Dual Channel Kit $80
- Video Card: GIGABYTE GeForce 9800 GT 1GB 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 $140
- Operating System: Vista Home Premium* $100
Total cost: $460
* I swear by Vista. It's a great operating system, and people are just hung up on the issues at release. People seem to forget that XP, when it was released, was just as bad (if not worse). Almost all the original issues have been resolved. You will need a new OS if you want to make use of all four gigabytes of memory.
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Vorca. I can't believe anyone put that much thought and effort into a reply to this. I appreciate it a ludicrous amount. Same with everyone else.
I will fix that current memory issue asap. Secondly, I am Canadian, so sadly those prices will be a little higher for me. My current budget is only about 600 CAD. Which might cover all that, but not the tax and shipping. Hmm. You've given me a lot to think about. =)
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On March 25 2009 19:10 404.Nintu wrote:
Vorca. I can't believe anyone put that much thought and effort into a reply to this. I appreciate it a ludicrous amount. Same with everyone else.
I will fix that current memory issue asap. Secondly, I am Canadian, so sadly those prices will be a little higher for me. My current budget is only about 600 CAD. Which might cover all that, but not the tax and shipping. Hmm. You've given me a lot to think about. =)
Everyone schools me at Starcraft so I have to school them at computer hardware to make up for it.
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I cannot adjust the memory speed in the bios. Does it have to do with my Bus speed being 200mhz? Shouldn't they be the same speed?
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On March 25 2009 19:31 404.Nintu wrote:
I cannot adjust the memory speed in the bios. Does it have to do with my Bus speed being 200mhz? Shouldn't they be the same speed?
I think so. But I'm scared to mess around with my BIOS, even to overclock my machine. You might want to look up some guides through google before proceeding. I deal better with the hardware side of computer stuff than the BIOS/software stuff.
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On March 25 2009 19:40 VorcePA wrote:Show nested quote +On March 25 2009 19:31 404.Nintu wrote:
I cannot adjust the memory speed in the bios. Does it have to do with my Bus speed being 200mhz? Shouldn't they be the same speed? I think so. But I'm scared to mess around with my BIOS, even to overclock my machine. You might want to look up some guides through google before proceeding. I deal better with the hardware side of computer stuff than the BIOS/software stuff.
Yeah. It actually wouldn't let me change it, or atleast nowhere I could find.
If you have any extra time and still wanna help me out, you can try and go to newegg.ca (canadian pricing) and make me a rig that will cost me around 800-900 dollars? If not, that's cool. =)
I really appreciate the help dude. =D
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On March 25 2009 20:57 404.Nintu wrote:Show nested quote +On March 25 2009 19:40 VorcePA wrote:On March 25 2009 19:31 404.Nintu wrote:
I cannot adjust the memory speed in the bios. Does it have to do with my Bus speed being 200mhz? Shouldn't they be the same speed? I think so. But I'm scared to mess around with my BIOS, even to overclock my machine. You might want to look up some guides through google before proceeding. I deal better with the hardware side of computer stuff than the BIOS/software stuff. Yeah. It actually wouldn't let me change it, or atleast nowhere I could find. If you have any extra time and still wanna help me out, you can try and go to newegg.ca (canadian pricing) and make me a rig that will cost me around 800-900 dollars? If not, that's cool. =) I really appreciate the help dude. =D
Ok. So the limit is $900 Canadian?
Some questions to ask:
- Do you want a new monitor with this set up?
- Does this include a mouse and keyboard?
- Do you want other peripheals (printer, card reader, TV tuner, etc.)?
- Do you want a Blu-Ray player? These are rather expensive right now so they will affect the rest of the build
- Do you care if it's AMD or Intel?
- Do you care if it's NVidia or ATI?
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On March 26 2009 04:45 VorcePA wrote:Show nested quote +On March 25 2009 20:57 404.Nintu wrote:On March 25 2009 19:40 VorcePA wrote:On March 25 2009 19:31 404.Nintu wrote:
I cannot adjust the memory speed in the bios. Does it have to do with my Bus speed being 200mhz? Shouldn't they be the same speed? I think so. But I'm scared to mess around with my BIOS, even to overclock my machine. You might want to look up some guides through google before proceeding. I deal better with the hardware side of computer stuff than the BIOS/software stuff. Yeah. It actually wouldn't let me change it, or atleast nowhere I could find. If you have any extra time and still wanna help me out, you can try and go to newegg.ca (canadian pricing) and make me a rig that will cost me around 800-900 dollars? If not, that's cool. =) I really appreciate the help dude. =D Ok. So the limit is $900 Canadian? Some questions to ask: - Do you want a new monitor with this set up? - Does this include a mouse and keyboard? - Do you want other peripheals (printer, card reader, TV tuner, etc.)? - Do you want a Blu-Ray player? These are rather expensive right now so they will affect the rest of the build - Do you care if it's AMD or Intel? - Do you care if it's NVidia or ATI?
No,
No,
No,
No,
No,
Not really, but sorta leaning towards Nvidia. Always have been. =)
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Well, I couldn't do it in $900. Jesus tapdancing christ is shit expensive in Canada. If you include shipping, the total of this machine comes out to probably $1,100:
Case: COOLER MASTER Centurion 5 ATX Mid Tower $65
Power Supply: BFG Tech GS-550 550W ATX12V V2.2 / EPS12V V2.8 SLI Ready $80
Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-EP45-UD3P LGA 775 Intel P45 ATX Intel Motherboard $170
CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo E8400 Wolfdale 3.0GHz LGA 775 65W Dual-Core Processor $210
Memory: OCZ Platinum 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 1066 (PC2 8500) Dual Channel Kit $81
Video Card: GIGABYTE GeForce 9800 GT 1GB 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 SLI Supported Video Card $180
Hard Drive: Western Digital Caviar SE16 500GB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s $75
DVD Player: SAMSUNG 22X DVD±R DVD Burner SATA $30
Operating System: Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit $150
Total Cost: $1,040
A few ways to save money on this set up is to use your old case and to buy Vista Home Basic 64-bit. I'm not too keen on Home Basic because they cut out too many features.
You have to be absolutely sure that your case can fit all of this stuff, though. As the power of computers have increased, so has their size. Motherboards, Power supplies, and video cards are the worst offenders of this.
You may just want to stick with upgrading your old rig, but with $800-$900 you could also pick yourself up a new, bigger, faster hard drive on top of all the other things I mentioned in my earlier post.
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EPT
