Graphics Card

[Eniad]

I'm looking for a decent graphics card for around $100. I've looked at the XFX GeForce 9800 GT at Tiger Direct. Is that overkill for a Pentium 4 3Ghz system with a PCI Express 1.0 motherboard? If so what card should I be considering? Currently I have a Radeon X300, which runs FO and FO2 just fine. However, Fallout 3 is calling my name.

System Specs:
Pentium 4 CPU 3 Ghz
1.0 GB RAM
145 GB HD
Soundblaster Audigy 2 ZS

 

[DJS4000]

go for an 8800gt. basically the same card, but cheaper. also look for a model that is compatible with pci-e 1.0. some 8800gt models either aren't or require a new bios.

 

[Multidirectional]

I would also strongly suggest upgrading your RAM to at least 2GB.

 

[Cromlech]

I agree on upgrading the RAM. Games of the last 3 years can appreciate 2GB. The 8800GT is indeed a great choice.

 

[Eniad]

Thanks for the tips! I'll let you know what I end up doing and how it goes.

 

[Dove]

Agreed. I have a BFG 9800 GT OC. Kicks ass and cheap.

 

[SkynetV4]

The PCI Express bus shouldn't be a problem. Most PCI Express 2.0 cards are backwards compatible with the 1.0 version.

If you can afford it, I would recommend going with the Radeon HD4850. A warning, though: the card runs really HOT so be sure to use the latest Catalyst drivers and crank the fan to at least 50%. Do not let temps approach 100 degrees celsius. Despite what ATI tells us: that the card is designed to run that hot with no problem, that's pretty close to the junction temperature of the semiconductors.