Graphics card question

[ButterflyGen]

Need to know how to upgrade graphics and power supply. Can't seem to find definitive answers via googling.

TP00-1127c

Device name DESKTOP-FR0E53O Processor Intel(R) Core(TM) i5-10400F CPU @ 2.90GHz (2.90 GHz) Installed RAM 12.0 GB (11.9 GB usable) Device ID 10A9A93E-20B2-4A82-B686-91EA6D166661 Product ID 00325-81841-46359-AAOEM System type 64-bit operating system, x64-based processor Pen and touch No pen or touch input is available for this display

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @ButterflyGen 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Yes, you can upgrade both the graphics card and power supply in your HP Pavilion TP00-1127c desktop, but there are a few key limitations to consider—especially around physical space, power connectors, and BIOS compatibility.

Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you plan the upgrade smoothly:

1. Graphics Card Upgrade

Your system uses a microATX motherboard and likely comes in a mid-tower case, which supports standard-sized GPUs—but with some constraints:

• PCIe x16 slot: Your Intel Core i5-10400F does not have integrated graphics, so a discrete GPU is required. The motherboard includes a PCIe x16 slot for this.
• Length clearance: Measure the internal space from the PCIe slot to the drive cage or front panel. Most HP Pavilion cases support GPUs up to 10–11 inches (250–280 mm).
• Recommended GPUs:
  • NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super (low power, good 1080p performance)
  • NVIDIA RTX 3060 (if you want ray tracing and better future-proofing)
  • AMD Radeon RX 6600 (efficient and compact)

Avoid triple-fan or oversized GPUs unless you confirm the case clearance.

 

2. Power Supply Upgrade

The stock PSU in many HP Pavilion desktops is 180W–300W, which is insufficient for most modern GPUs. You’ll need:

• ATX power supply, ideally 500W–650W, 80+ Bronze or better
• Minimum 1x 8-pin PCIe connector (some GPUs need 2x 8-pin)
• Compact PSU dimensions if space is tight (check for SFX or shorter ATX models)

Compatible PSU options:

• Cooler Master MWE 550 Bronze V2
• Corsair CV550 or CV650

Make sure the PSU has the correct 24-pin motherboard, 8-pin CPU, and PCIe power connectors.

 

3. BIOS Compatibility and Secure Boot

Before installing a new GPU:

• Enter BIOS (F10 at startup) and disable Secure Boot under Security > Secure Boot Configuration.
• Enable Legacy Support if the GPU doesn’t initialize.
• After installation, boot into Windows and install the latest drivers from NVIDIA or AMD.

 

4. Thermal and Airflow Considerations

• Ensure your case has at least one intake and one exhaust fan.
• Monitor GPU temps using tools like HWMonitor or MSI Afterburner after installation.

Let me know which GPU you’re considering, and I can help confirm fit and power requirements. You’re doing the right thing by planning carefully—this upgrade can breathe new life into your system.

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Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye