I'm sorry, another Dimension E310 question.

[davie1283]

Hello any/everyone, I have a question about my Dell E310(as if there are not enough already). I bought the basic E310 from Dell: 2.8ghz, 1024mb ram, as well as the rest, but as all knows my major downfall is the inability to upgrade from my Intel GMA 900 video card. I am still fairly new to computers although I have a good general knowledge of them. There is a game coming out soon, LOTR online and I am a huge fan and want to play,but I do not think my graphics card will support it. It should be noted that I played Fable all the way through on the lowest settings and it went well. I bought an ATi Radeon X850 XT video card because I was not paying attention. I know it will not work on my PC. So my question is should I buy a graphics card that is PCI express x1, hoping it will work for the game? Or would it be possible for me to change my motherboard to one with x16? I have one sort of picked out, the Intel Desktop Board DG965MS Classic Series (uBTX form factor), but i'm not sure it will be compatible with everything. If I buy the right parts, my IT guy at work will help me put it all together. Anyone have any advice or pointers to help me out? Sorry for the long post but i'm lost... Thanks to all who read it.

[dodong]

do a google search for Intel DG965MS if it can support ur CPU and have a pci-e x16 slot

[david eaton]

Also be aware that the "copy" of WindowsXP on the restore disks will NOT install if you change the motherboard. You will need to buy another copy, either retail, or OEM.

[Erik]

I would recommend just getting a video card that will work with your current computer. As mentioned a new MB = new copy of Windows too. Then there is the Dell factor, will the form factor be able to work with the case? Will the PSU work?

If you want to go the new MB route you are probably best off getting a new case, PSU, and MB. You can salvage drives, RAM, and CPU.

[saphalline]

The Dell E310 was not meant to be a gaming machine. You cannot reasonably turn it into one. Much like all pre-built/OEM computers.

If you want a pure gaming machine, you're better off starting over.

[davie1283]

I see, thank you all for the replies it has helped alot. Now I just have to decide what to do with my options.