Upgrading comp/gfx

[vladekxbootes]

current computer specs:
intel 2.66 ghz core 2 duo
evga 8600 gts 256mb
4gb ram
some gigabyte motherboard from 3/4 years old

so i was just planning to upgrade my video card; what would be a good choice, I was gonna spend around $150 max but right now a 4870 is $160, is that a good deal?
http://www.ncix.com/products/index.p...X&promoid=1215

are there any other cards that are better bang for the buck
and would my processor bottle neck the vid card? so i have to upgrade processor too

[Satsumomo]

That processor should be fine, you could even try giving it a small overclock, you wouldn't need any special cooling systems or anything, Core 2 Duos are great for small overclocks on stock air.

However, if you plan on upgrading your videocard, you must also take your computer's power supply into account. Look into your computer and check what PSU you have, and give us the power ratings.

It should have a label like this:



The ones that matter the most for a videocard would be the ones labeled as 12+

Tell us whats the amperage reading on those. (For example, in that image they are: +12v1 14A, +12v2 16A)

[vladekxbootes]

alright ill do that when i get some time on my hands; im probably gonna get the vid card in late nov/early dec so if this one is not on sale i might get a different one but the power supply should be pretty much the same for all the video cards around that price range?

[Satsumomo]

Yes. However, if you can get a HD5850, it should be pretty much equal performance, for a lower power consumption. Ah, but they're at $289 right now. Crap.

[vladekxbootes]

maybe save me money in the longer run haha