There is this game "iRacing" that I want to get into at some point when I have the money for the subscription. I just did a test on the site to see if my computer meets the requirements. It is fine except the video card. It requires NVidia GeForce 7800 / ATI Radeon X1800 or above.
My computer has a Intel(R) G33/G31 Express Chipset Family.
So how does one go about upgrading the video card? I'd imagine it is open the computer up and change things. Very unsure about doing that.
These were some other features my computer is lacking in most likely due to the card I have.
Hardware T&L (my computer doesn't have it, plus I have no idea what that is)
Pixel shader version(requires 3.0, I only have 2.0)
Vertex shader version(requires 3.0, I only have 2.0a)
If anyone can direct me towards something good and how I go about changing it or who would do it for reasonable. Thanks!
Answers & Comments
Verified answer
Graphics cards can be purchased online at a wide variety of price points. Search for a card in your price range that has the features you need. Then, when you have found one you like, be sure to check the specifications of your motherboard to see whether or not your computer has the necessary slot (it probably will, but do check).
One of the metal brackets (the one that lines up with the slot the card is going to be put in) will be removed. Then you simply insert the card in to the slot, and if necessary, connect it to your computer's power supply.
Newegg tends to have the best prices:
http://www.newegg.com/Store/Category.aspx?Category...
I would recommend purchasing an Nvidia card, as ATI often has inferior drivers. If you don't know what to look for, the game should have a list of supported cards.
I'm not a gamer so I can't advise about one card vs another. I'll give you some general advice. Don't be afraid to change a card. I've done it numerous times with no problem. Your new card will have to be seated firmly. If it is not seated properly, you will have trouble putting in the screw that holds the card in the box. You might want to also take a look at your monitor. When I've replaced a video card I've also upgraded my monitor. If you are going to get a very powerful card, you may exceed the capacity of your power supply.
The newer cards will have digital and analog connectors and a new monitor will probably include a digital cable.
This site will explain Hardware T&L and other terms:
http://asia.cnet.com/what-the-hell-is-hardware-tan...