Support
Service
Consulting
Hardware
Internet
Networks

The PC Support Source
The PC Lifesaver

(847) 259-0410

Call Anytime. The first 10 minutes are free!

Business
Home Office
Residential
On-site
Remote
Chicago
and Suburbs

In This Section:

Video Cards

Gaming and Graphics - Video

The Video Card (or video subsystem if it comes mounted on the motherboard) will help determine how fast your software will perform under heavy graphics load. Graphics intensive three dimensional games like Quake or CAD modeling like AutoCAD require much video processing power than word-processing or general internet browsing.

What to Look for and why:

Video Chipset: Just as the CPU does the work of the system overall, the Video Chipset does the work of the Video Subsystem. For most users, a mid performance video chipset will not be overburdened, but if you plan tp play games or do heavy graphics, don't skimp on this part of the system.

Video Memory Amount: supports higher resolutions and a bigger color pallette

Video Drivers: and Manufacturer Support: Video card performance and stability are almost as much a function of software drivers as of the hardware itself. Avoid video cards or chipsets made by companies with a poor track record of providing updated, bug-free drivers.

Expect to Pay:

General Business Graphics and Internet (Usually Mounted on Motherboard) - $20.00 - $40.00
Desktop Graphics (2D, Light Video & Gaming; AGP or PCIx Add-on Adapter) - $40.00 - $80.00
Power Desktop Graphics (3D, Moderate Video & Gaming; High Speed AGP or PCIx Add-on Adapter) - $80.00 - $120.00
Power Gaming and Graphics (State-of-the-Art Gaming, 3D Graphics, Professional Video Editing; High Speed PCIx or AGP Adapter Required) - $120.00 - $ UP to $1000.00!