Is my new monitor too hip for my computer?

[Broni]

I can see, you have one PCI slot available, and this is the type of video card, you have to buy.
Some PCI cards listed here: http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=2010380048+1069609642&name=PCI

[StrongHeart]

Broni, blunder, Thank You.
So my next question after looking at the long list of cards is how do I buy a video card responsibly?  What numbers, beside the price, matter, and which numbers and letters do I have to see to know that the card is compatible with my desktop? I know nothing about this.  I do have a compaq spec sheet  Any answers, or links to learn about buying the right one will be appreciated. 

[Broni]

All cards from my link are PCI type, so all of them will work with your computer. Your best bet will be to get one with 256MB of RAM. I can see number of them up there.

[StrongHeart]

Thanks so much for the recommendation!! 
Another question, are you saying 256 MHz is best because that's what the computer came with?  Does it matter that computer system memory is  now 1 GB?
Peace

[Broni]

No. I said 256MB of RAM. This is video card RAM, not your computer RAM.
Like this one:
HIS Hightech H925H256RPN-R Radeon 9250 256MB 128-bit DDR PCI Video Card - Retail

[StrongHeart]

OK  I get it now.  Thanks for the clarification.
Peace

[Broni]

You're welcome

[homer]

i suggest 1152 X 864 resolution. i have a 19" widescreen as well, and 1280 X 1024, in my opinion, is rather small. however, if you must get 1440 X 900, then it would be best to follow Broni's advice.