what Graphics Card should i get?

[Baller]

alright well i got a bit of money for christmas and i decided i'd like to upgrade my graphics card.  im currently using the 256 MB ATI x1300.  my computer is using PCI Express ports for the card.

im a gamer and plan on playing new games so i need at least a 512 MB card.  wut do u think the best would be for me to get considering that the max of my price range is about $250.

also i was wondering if u think i would need a new power source to use a much more powerful card.

my computer is a DELL DIMENSION E520.  ill check back later tonite, thanks in advance!

[hejlik]

I would bet you will need a better ps.

It would be nice to have a few specs so we could help you. Processor/ ram/ current power supply just to name the most important. My guess is your current system will  bottleneck a top end card.

[Baller]

its intel core 2 duo 1.8 GHz processor
2 GB of ram
im using vista(not sure if that matters)

im not sure how to find what power source i have, any help?

[hejlik]

Most power supplies have a tag on the back or bottom.

If it were me, I would just plan on buying a new, quality power supply. A power supply that does not provide enough power, or is not of good quality can cause all kinds of problems.

[Baller]

alright well i wasnt able to see any lable or tag but i assume its a firly standard dell power supply, the computer is only about 2 years old.

[killerb255]

Depending on your budget, get an ATI Radeon HD 4850 if you don't want to spend more than $200 or a 4870 if you do.

As for power supply, make sure it's at least 550W with multiple +12V rails.  It should also have a dedicated connector that connects to your video card.

[Baller]

ya i think i will go with the 4850 thanks.  i was wondering what the difference was bettween ddr3 and ddr2 cards and which one will be better for me, what do u guys think?