Best recommened Graphics card

[Warhound]

8800 GTX TDP = 145 Watt
6850 TDP = 127 Watt

So as I said in the previous post ,if your current system is rockstable (under load) with the 8800 GTX..it should be just as stable with a 6850 since it actually has a lower maximum powerdraw.

Dell is known to rate their PSU's very low, but they actually manage to get very close to their rated power. This is the opposite of most PSU's ,which might claim 500W but actually buckle as soon as you ask them to provide a stable 400Watt.
Dell seems to use a rating that can be supplied reliably and stable while most PSU brands seem to rate the peak output, not what the product can push out stably 24/7


edit: if this is the review you checked : http://www.bit-tech.net/hardware/gra...i-1gb-review/8
You'll see they list the system with a 6850 as drawing less power from the socket than most others (229W).
Also the system used has a higher wattage CPU and a 1000W PSU which won't be anywhere near peak efficiency at such low load.

Now I'm not saying your system is guaranteed to run a 6850, but I think the chance is pretty good it will...and if it doesn't just send the thing back within 7 days and get a full refund.

[Argonaut110]

Thanks for the updated Watt usage, very reassuring.
I might test out the current card with FSX/Il-2 1946 anyway to see how it performs like you said, so I can be 100% sure when purchasing the 6850.

[Argonaut110]

Originally Posted by Warhound

Now I'm not saying your system is guaranteed to run a 6850, but I think the chance is pretty good it will...and if it doesn't just send the thing back within 7 days and get a full refund.

If it doesn't work, what should be my backup option that would do just as good of a job? (And no, the 8800GTX doesn't count )

[Argonaut110]

Anybody? (look at previous post)

[Warhound]

Alternatives?
A new budget build which you buy in december of this year :p
Or stay with the current setup which will run 1946 and FSX just fine.

Don't think there is any other option that equals the 6850 in performance, draws as little power as it and only needs 1 PCi-E connector.

[Pudfark]

@Argo,

I financially regret the decisions that I made to upgrade my system, solely for CloD. Which is the only high-end game, I've tried to play.

My advice to you is "WAIT"...see what the dev's can come up with in terms of optimization. Then spend and build. I honestly believe that you will be better off in the long run and have more $ to spend on specific components that will better suit your needs to this game.

If you feel that you can't wait, (I couldn't), the advice given by others above this post is excellent and you should weigh it and follow it.

Best of Luck to You

[Argonaut110]

I think your right pudfark- I can wait. Anyway, FSX and il-2 1946 still give off exceptional graphics, so I think i'll be A-ok. Case dismissed.