Upgrading Stock HP Desktop

[Raul-7]

I have a HP Desktop 7250n and wanted to switch out the power supply to something bigger like 500W (I need it to upgrade the VGA) without wasting money on overpriced HP parts. Has anyone done this and what do I need to know before I spend any money?

[Paul Komski]

Most generic PSUs come in a standard size so check that the HP one is standard and not a mini nor one with a strange shape.

That system (http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?docname=c00379616&lc=en&cc=us&dlc=en&product=1118243&lang=en) (with a micro ATX form factor) uses two ATX outputs (one 24pin and one 4pin) for powering the motherboard so you should get a PSU with the same output leads to avoid having to add converters later on. Also get a PSU with both SATA and Molex power connectors since the board has 4 SATA and one IDE (2 possible molex) slot.

[Raul-7]

Thanks for the reply, exactly what I wanted to hear. Does it matter if the fan is situated at the back or on top?

[Paul Komski]

For on the top - transpose to on the bottom. It all depends on where the outlet grille in the case is and whether the PSU is placed at the top or more unusually at the bottom of the case. The orientation wont affect the PSU as long as the air flow is not impeded. The screws are a bit offset so its hard to get it wrong.

[Raul-7]

Will the Antec EA 500 work? Thanks.

[Paul Komski]

It looks good to me (http://www.antec.com/us/productDetails.php?ProdID=27500) and the airflow is straight through so no top/bottom conflict.

No molexes shown but they must be standard.

[jlreich]

Does it matter if the fan is situated at the back or on top?
FYI, the fan is never on top. They show the PSU that way so you can see the fan. But it is on the bottom. I have been saying for years now they need to put a note on those pictures.

[Raul-7]

Just to confirm, the 8800 GT or GTS 512MB will work on this motherboard?

[jlreich]

It has a PCIe x16 slot, so the motherboard will accept it.

One thing though, the card is 9" long, and you need another 1/2" or so for the power connector to go at the end of the card. So you might want to measure the inside of the case where the card will go and make sure you have clearance.

BTW, I just got my new 8800GT 512MB along with the rest of my new build a couple of days ago and totally love it. I just installed Oblivion, set everything on max, and it is absolutely beautiful with absolutely no lag or choppiness. :cool: :D

Also be aware Oblivion did not recognize the new card during auto detect, it must be too new. But no worries, just set everything manually.

[Raul-7]

Thanks. I got the BFG 8800 GTS 512MB; no more upgrading for awhile. :) Hopefully, I'll use it in my upcoming gaming rig as well.