FSX and Videocards

[Yeti]

I am getting by with my current videocard but I am going back into the market for a good computer that can handle FSX without and video lag (as I often do currently).  I am using an ATI 9000/9100 IGP videocard.  I know its old.  It is a mircale that I can play FSX.  Is there any videocards (that are not $600+)  that you like? or dislike? or just stay away from?

[MOUSY]

Many here that are experienced would tell you not to go for anything less than the 7950GT 512MB or the 8800GTS 320MB, both Nvidia's... not to sure about ATI's...
But then the rest of your system (including the PSU) would have to be suitable for working with the card, esp. the processor, since FSX is very CPU-intensive...
Quad Cores and 8800s are the (expensive) way to go right now...

[justpassingthrough]

from what I have learned it is about matching the video card to the processor and motherboard. you can not slap a 400 dollar video card into a slow system and expect FSX to run better. You need to find the right card for the speed of the processor, motherboard and memory being used.

[Yeti]

I had always like pentium 4s, but they are being replaced by core duels and other things.  I really dont know also what is a good processor.  I currently have a Pentium 4 2.8 ghz, but I havent found any processors that are that fast.  I am thinking of buying a HP, but they have only around Anthlon processors at 2 ghz.

[HugoCampos]

Well, right now, a fast processor is not one that has a high clock but one that combines high clock and several cores. For instance, a quad core at 2.4 is much better than a P4 at 2.8. Now there is one thing you should consider: new processors are going to be released in November. Those cpu's which will be much better than the current ones. If I were you I would wait and get one of the new processors when they are available, together with a motherboard with a p35 (I sugest an Asus p5k deluxe for DDRII or an Asus p5k3 Premium for DDRIII) or X38 chipset. If you really wanna upgrade now, I would sugest a q6600 which is quite cheap and can be clocked all the way to more than 3.0GHz.
In terms of graphics cards, if you wanna upgrade now, I sugest an ATI HD2900XT or an 8800GTS 840MB. If you can't afford one of those then go with a 7950 or an 8800GTS 320MB. But once again, remember that by the end of the year or begining of next year, both ATI and Nvidia will release new cards which will be much more powerful and power efficient. That will also make the price of the 8800's and HD's go down.
Finally, if you do upgrade, remember to get a good PSU (Power Source Unit) to power the new system. I would go for at least 750w.

[Yeti]

thanks man.  I can wait.  Thanks again fo the info

[Pappy44]

keep in mind that the newer vid cards need power from the PSU as well...just like your HDs plug into the PSU, so do the bigger and fancier vid cards...