Should I increase RAM or upgrade graphics?

  • Thread starter Thread starter mcmd
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mcmd

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Trival question, perhaps:
I have a Dell 4600 with 512M (2x256M) dual channel DDR RAM (400MHz) and integrated graphics on the M/B. The graphics (Intel extreme 2) shares up to 128M of the RAM.
I don't like the idea of allocating my precious RAM for graphics, so I have 2 choices: (1) Install (buy) an AGP graphics card (maybe an FX5200- $60-$90) or (2) add another 512M RAM ($100-$150)?
I am considering a second monitor (end of '05), so I would need a dual head card for that. I don't need a gaming machine - DAW only.

What say you all?
Thanks, in advance

/mcmd
 
I would definately say get a new video card.

I use a ATI Radeon 9200se dual head for two screens and it works fine. Alot of users on this board use the Matrox line of cards. They also have dual monitor out.

Tukkis
 
If you are limited to buying only one item for now, I'd suggest the Video card. But even then, 512 MB of your "unallocated precious RAM" :D will need an upgrade soon especially if you're using plugins.

Good luck.
 
i bought the geforce 5200 dual display 128mb from a local computer store....its perfect..screen is clear. the meter and wave screen reaction time in sonar is accurate to sound. i bought a second monitor and i have a good time with one screen showing the track waves and the other screen as the virtual mixer. on top of all that I can still jump in on computer games without alot of lag if any.
 
Im not sure you will be able to install a AGP graphics card on your Dell 4600. On these new Intel Chipsets I don't think AGP is supported in favor of PCI-X graphics cards which are available to (not sure onthat model but check your MB to make sure)

Also, you may not be able to disable your on-board video? Give dell a Call and it maybe a jumper on the MB, a option in the BIOS, or not possible in which case you might as well get a new PC!!
 
Those dells with onboard intel graphics do not have a agp slot only pci's, and pci e is totally out of the question on a dell.

Just upgrade your ram but make sure your mb supports up to an ammount.
or just build a whole new comp.
 
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