Compaq Presario 2034NX. Power Supply n Video Card upgrade

[TigerInGA]

I have a Compaq Presario 2034NX, and want to get an upgraded video card installed (for HDMI output, etc.).  I know I will have to upgrade my Power Supply as well, for the new power requirements.

I am interested in 3rd Party (after-market) parts, not 'genuine HP/Compaq", for costs savings on this 7+ year old box.

(A)  What version of PCI-Express is the slot on the MBoard?

(B)  What form factor should Power Supply be purchased for?  ATX?  12V?

(C)  Is there a special EOM type requirement for Video card to work in Compaq Presario PCI-Express slot, or will most 3rd Party (after-market) cards work?

Thanks!

[Big_Dave · Accepted solution]

Hi,

Is this Compaq Presario your PC?  If yes, then a standard size ATX power supply will work as will many PCI-E x16 video cards.

Most NVIDIA video cards require a minimum of  a 300+ watt power supply.  Most ATI video cards require a mimium 400+ watt power supply.

1. HP doesn't post the PCI-E slot version but I suspect 1.x. It should support most PCI-E 2.0 cards with some exceptions.

2. A stand size ATX power supply will fit (5.5x3.4x5.9).

3. The video card chosen needs to be paired with a power supply to support its power requirements.

What budget amount are you considering for the video card and power suppy.  Do you have any special video connection requirements? (HDMI, DVI, VGA)  What applications are you considering for use with the new video card?

Open up your PC and do some measuring in parallel with the PCI-E x16 slot to see how long of a video card will fit. The slot adjacent to the PCI-E x16 slot needs to be vacant if a wider video card is being considered. Look carefully at the motherboard and makes sure that components on the motherboard don't interfere with the installation of the video card.

[TigerInGA]

Big_Dave,

Thanks for the reply and information.  For the link, yes, that is my machine.  I have plans to use HDMI and close to 1081p as possible, and eventually eliminate my cable and use online TV content.  Anysuggestions on getting this machine to that point?

[Big_Dave]

Hi TigerInGa,

The two NVIDA cards wiil work.

$50--->NVIDIA GT 520 11.2 GB/s -- single slot width

$80--->NVIDIA GT 440 25.6 GB/s -- single slot width  ---> requires a mini HDMI to HDMI adapter or cable.

The Corsair CX430 should be sufficient for your needs.  I typically recommend the Corsair CX500 in case a bigger video card is being consider (for gaming).  It's $5 more after rebate.

[TigerInGA]

Big_Dave,

Wow, thanks for the great info.  I'm looking into the first one.

How about this PS.  Opinions?

Diablotek 500 W PS

MG

[Big_Dave]

Hi,

I am not familiar with the Diablotek brand.  However, after reviewing the specifications for the Diablotek 500, the Corsair CX430 has more amperage on the +12 volt bus and the price is the same after rebate.

Choose a Corsair power supply would be my recommendation.