HP p6110y Video/Graphics Upgrade to DVI-D and HDMI

[INROCK]

Need to connect desktop to HDTV via DVI-D as second monitor.  Constrained by single VGA port ondesktop.  CURRENT EQUIPMENT:   (1)  PC = HP p6110y, Windows 7, 64-bit, single VGA out port, 250w power; (2) Monitor = HP w2338h LCD with optimum resolution of 1920 x 1080 @ 60 Hz; (3) HDTV = Sony LCD Projection KF-41WE610, HD video via DVI-D input or component @ 1080i, 720p, 480p, or 480i. 

MY NAIVE QUESTIONS:  (1)  What do I need to know about graphics card, power, and installation peculiarities for HP p6110y?  Any brand/model recommendations for this PC, recognizing my immediate need is for viewing on-line movies, clips, and high resolution text?  [NOTE:  I'm not a gamer, just looking to exploit internet content for work and entertainment.] 

[Paul_Tikkanen]

Hi:

Without changing out your power supply, your choices are pretty limited.

I think this card should work just fine for your needs, however.

It has the ports you are looking for, and doesn't require a hefty P/S.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814127613

To surf the web, stream video, and some light gaming, I think you will be happy with it.

To install the card...

Go into your BIOS now and see if there are settings to enable/disable the onboard video.

I am only used to PC's where if you install a PCie x16 video card, it automatically disables the onboard card, but on some models you need to actually go into the BIOS and change the video setting and even select the PCIe slot to enable the add on video.

If there are no settings like that, then the card should be plug and play.

But you need to uninstall the current video drivers before installing the new card.

Go to the device manager and click on your display adapter. Right click on the model display adapter under that category and select Uninstall.  Don't reboot. Shut down the PC, unplug it and install your new video card.

Then you can plug the power cord back in, boot up the PC, and install the drivers for your new video card.

One other thing...if you now find that your onboard audio is gone, you need to shut down and reboot the PC, go into the BIOS, find the onboard audio setting. You will find it to be either set to Auto or Disabled.

Change the setting to Enabled, save the setting there and again when you exit.

When you reboot, you should have your audio back and you should have HDMI audio when you connect an HDMI cable to a TV.

Paul

[INROCK]

Hello, Paul.

Thank you for your informative and quick response.  I sincerely appreciate your taking the time to give me a specific lead on a video card and installation instructions.  I will let you know how this works out.  Much obliged!

Dan

[Paul_Tikkanen · Accepted solution]

You're very welcome, Dan.

Looking forward to reading about your video card upgrade.

Regards,

Paul

[INROCK]

Paul,

Just closing the loop re: product recommendation and installation advice.  In conjunction with HP illustrated step-by-step instructions, the MSi R4350 installation and result has been flawless.  I hooked HDMI to HP w2338h monitor and DVI-D to Sony 42" HDTV and both are remarkable.  Your timely and reassuring response gave me courage to place Newegg order and climb under PC tower hood.  In particular, your encouragement to check BIOS and note to uninstall prior graphics driver both proved to be sage advice.  I am grateful.

Warm Regards,

Dan

[Paul_Tikkanen]

Hi, Dan:

Thank you for following up and letting us know how your video card upgrade went.

I am very happy to read that your upgrade went just fine.

Enjoy!

Best regards,

Paul