Hi guys.

Normally I'd test a game's compatibility with my system by simply downloading the demo, but seen as there's no demo for Skyrim I figured I would ask you knowledgeable
bunch of people advice on how best to run the game.

My Specs:

System: Gateway DX4850
Windows 7
Intel Core i5 2300 @2.8ghz
6gb RAM
Intel ® HD Graphics Family

I've read that the integrated graphics will be a massive stumbling block (although I can play Oblivion on Medium settings), but I was wondering if it's actually possible to add a new card to my Gateway system (I have no idea how to check if I can and if so what type will work - PCI 16pin or whatever!) and if it is possible, which card you would recommend. (I'm on about $100-150 budget I guess).

Apologies for the stupidity. I don't really know who to ask.

Thanks so much.

http://www.gamesas.com/index.php?/topic/1252929-unofficial-will-my-pc-run-skyrim-thread-51-w-hardware-guide/

This thread will help with your questions, but if I know right and if that computer is a desktop, you can just add a graphics card and that will take priority over your integrated. I could be totally wrong since I'm not that knowledgeable on computers.

Trying to run it with integrated graphics...would not end well.

6870

Thanks Chaos. That's what I figured. Does anyone know of a website where I can type in my system name and it will tell me what type of new card is compatible with my system? I know there are a bunch of different types such as PCI and PCI Express etc. I just want to make sure I buy the correct one. Thanks again ^_^

How many Watts does your PSU have? If its under 400 good luck getting card from the last 2 generations.

You can post in the hardware thread, however if your system is a Gateway DX4850-45u it does have 1x PCI Express x16 slot so you should be able to get a decent vid card

http://reviews.cnet.com/desktops/gateway-dx4850-45u/4507-3118_7-34643313.html?tag=mncol;subnav

I did a search and came up with http://support.gateway.com/s/desktop/2011/gateway/dx4850/DX4850sp5.shtml which I think is your computer. If it is then you have a PCI-express slot so just about anything will fit OK. The problem, as mentioned above, could be the power supply. If you got the 500W one then things should be OK, but if you have the 300W one then it may be a bit tight. Could you take a look and let us know, the rating should be on the back of the power supply and visible without opening the computer.

This is a duplicate that was unnecessary:

http://www.gamesas.com/index.php?/topic/1252929-unofficial-will-my-pc-run-skyrim-thread-51-w-hardware-guide/page__st__20

I too have onboard video..it isnt really bad, but i know that i have to upgrade asap....my price range is $250..no more than that....i have crossfire ..so it needs to be an ati card...any recommendations?

Sorry for the duplicate.

I looked at the power supply in the back and it says it's a Sunon MagLev KDE1209PTV3 DC 12V 1.2W I assume that's bad...

Got the wrong thing I just realized. I took off the side panel and this is the power supply: Liteon PS-6301-08A3 I think that's the 300W one although it doesn't say on the side of it.

@dirtyscarab: your PSU is going to be way light. It only cranks about 275W, even though it's rated at 300W. Most of the mid-range graphics cards are going to want a 500W PSU or better.

Edit: Just browsing an online hardware retailer, I'm seeing some of the GeForce 5xx series that will go on a 300W and set you back $100 or less, so it might not be as bad as I made it sound.

Thanks so much for all of your help guys. I really would prefer to play via pc than on my xbox (even though I may have to run on low), so I'll look into those GeForce cards.

Without having to change the PSU, the most I'd put in there is a http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102950