HP Z420 Graphics Cards with HDMI output

[GSH6812]

This computer doesn't have an HDMI output and I now really need to attached an HDMI screen to the Monitor because frankly the SVGAs just don't deliver good quality anymore.

I have seen that there are adapters that will convert to HDMI but I am not sure whether they actually improve the quality or not. I now have another Workstation that has Display Port with my 420 helping on the family side of the computing needs.

Can someone tell me either:

a) Whether a SVGA convertor to HDMI and a new screen is worth it or
b) What graphics card (that I will have to source second hand) are compatible with the motherboard that will allow me to actually connect an HDMI monitor directly to it. This will result in a better screen.

This computer is 14 years old, now runs Windows 10 flawlessly and so I'd like to try and keep it alive for a few more years.

Thank you for your help

[37293]

hi, I had this same this a few months back, If you have the 600 watt power supply then you should get a AMD RX 580 8GB from Amazon for $115. or if you like nivinda get the Geforce GTX 1060. these are both great graphics cards(the AMD one is 1/3 the price of the nivinda one), If you could post what processor you have I could help get this narrowed down better.

[GSH6812]

Thanks very much.

Stupid question, how can I verify the power supply I have?

[37293]

 open up the side panel and the box that your power cable goes into. it will say either 400 watts or 600 watts.

[GSH6812]

Thanks, I really appreciate the help. Not sure on the processor from memory it was i7 13th Generation I think.

[37293]

it couldn't have been a 13th gen I7 the z420 only supports upto a 8th gen I7, you can go to task manager and it will tell you.

[GSH6812]

HA! So much for my memory. Cheers will check and postback after the weekend.

[37293]

also if you can see a output without a graphic card you have a Intel core. Intel xeon's arn't able to process display.

[GSH6812]

 Xeon(r) CPI E5-1650 @ 3.2GHZ

Graphics card AMD RADEON HD 7400 series

Turns out I can see that it has an HDMI so it seems I can just get a monitor with HDMI

The power has 600W on it.

I love this PC.

Any pointers? Or can I just go out and buy a monitor and connect it?

[37293 · Accepted solution]

you should by a monitor that is at most 1080P. that graphic card can't handle any more than that.