PCTech Forums

First off all, This is the problem.


1.) Can someone reccomend to me a new videocard? What's a great but cheap videocard? I'm sure getting something that'll actually run this isn't TOO expensive.
Though I also want something that'll run OBLIVION on very high to.

2.) What kind of RAM do I have to buy? Or does it matter?
I'm using a an Acer with Vista home Edition on it.

3.) What's a good virus protection that is free,Doesn't slow my performance down and can find virus/Spyware?

That looks like a Laptop kind of spec to me.
Do you have a laptop or a desktop, because a laptop is somewhat harder to upgrade.

Everything I suggest will be based on having a desktop.

The RAM type does matter, and can be confusing. The old AMD Athlon X2, like mine, use DDR. The more recent ones use DDR2. You can find out which you need by finding the socket type of your motherboard, or just looking in the manual and seeing what the mobo can take.

The next thing about RAM is its clock. Again, your mobo manual should tell you what it can handle.

The last thing about RAM is how much you can use. Since you've got a 32bit OS you won't be able to use more than about 3.5GB. There's other threads around this forum explaining why...

GPU, what's your idea of 'expensive' for a start? The new ATI 5750 is under £100 and gives great performance. Also, nvidia are expected to release new cards in March.
Just don't expect to find something that can run oblivion on very high. yeh, its an old game now, but it wasn't well optimised.

Antivirus: Some use AVG, some use avast... swings and roundabouts.

you said your machine is an Acer, whats the model? That alone would help us look up options for you.