What is the maximum size Graphics card I can install into my PC?

[PaulMace]

Hi, I wish to upgrade my Graphics card to Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060.  Will that fit into my current HP Pavillion chassis?

If so, will I need to upgrade my power supply unit as well?

I'm new to upgrading hardware, so would welcome any help.

Many thanks.

[old_geekster]

@PaulMace, welcome to the forum.

Here is a video card that will fit nicely into your case and give you a good performance increase.  It does require a power supply unit (PSU) upgrade.  The existing PSU is an Internal 180W.  The card in my link requires at least 400W.  I highly recommend no less than 500W.  This will give you some extra power for peak needs.

Read the Specifications and the Customer Reviews.  This will tell you what you need to know.

I have recommended this card to many members with great success.  If you have further questions about the card, you should contact EVGA's Tech Support.  They are very helpful.

Please click the Thumbs up + button if I have helped you and click Accept as Solution if your problem is solved.

[PaulMace]

Thanks old_geekster, sorry not to get back before.  That is really useful advice.

If  I do upgrade and use the 500w PSU will that impact my motherboard or affect the CPU?

A friend has advised replacing the CPU fan as well.  I don't really want to rebuild the whole pc(!) and now wondering if worthwhile.

Many thanks

[old_geekster · Accepted solution]

You are welcome, @PaulMace.

---

@PaulMace wrote:

Thanks old_geekster, sorry not to get back before.  That is really useful advice.

If  I do upgrade and use the 500w PSU will that impact my motherboard or affect the CPU?  The wattage that a PSU provides is based on the requirements of the system components.  It will not draw the 500W and damage your components.  The amount over the requirement is there for use in peak power needs.

A friend has advised replacing the CPU fan as well.  The cooler that is provided by HP should be plenty to cool your computer.  There should be no need to upgrade it.

I don't really want to rebuild the whole pc(!) and now wondering if worthwhile.  If later you find that the computer needs more upgrades that is the time to make the decision.  I, like you, don't want to spend any unnecessary money.

Many thanks

---

[PaulMace]

Hi old_geekster, that is great information.  This is where my hardware/Electronics  knowledge lacks somewhat.  Knowing the jigsaw of how it all fits together, impacts etc.

PSU 500w now oredered and GPU to follow in a couple of days.  Then to roll uyp my sleeves and install.

Kind regards

[old_geekster]

@PaulMace, I suggest that you take some pictures of the connectors on the motherboard where the PSU cables connect.  This will help you assure that you know where to connect the new PSU.  I found this out the hard way when I first began building computers years ago.

If you need further help, let me know.