Vista Tutorial - graphics slot

Which graphics slot is best to use? AGP, PCI or PCIe X1, PCIe x16. I also heard of PCIe 2.0 but my computer doesn't have that one listed. Suggestions.

Well if you want to use a graphics card in your computer you can only use the slot or slots which it has available. Most computers either have a PCI Express slot for a graphics card or an AGP slot for a graphics card, a few computers have both AGP and a PCI express slots for a graphics card. Like it is very difficult to assist you, unless one knows what sockets your computer motherboard has, if they are occupied by any cards already and what you are trying to do? If I am right in thinking it has a PCI Express 16 slot which is currently un-occupied and you are using the intergrated graphics, well the AGP does not come in to equation as an AGP card can not be used in a PCI Express socket. PCI Express cards use a more modern and better technology than AGP cards and the only reason for buying an AGP card is if one has a motherboard with an AGP socket and one wants to upgrade one's motherboard graphics capability from say intergrated Graphics to a dedicated card but is locked out of the PCI Express option by the lack of a PCI Express socket.

Best and Warm Regards
Adrian Wainer

PCIe x16 is the fastest [only trumped by PCIe 2.0], and the vast majority of video cards today use this specification. There is no reason not to use it if you are buying a new card

Hi bassfisher6522,

Your motherboard supports PCIe x16, so you should get a card which supports this standard (most, if not all, current graphics cards do). AGP (Advanced Graphics Port) was used on early systems (cards are still available in this standard), and PCI was used on even earlier systems (cards for this are few and far between). Although AGP is capable of supporting Vista, it is unlikely that the older PCI standard is.

Thanks everybody, that anwsered my questions. PCIe x16 it is, now to buy my new card. I don't need anything real fancy or expensive and one that works with my systems PSU (350 watt). What I have found is the XFX GeForce 8600 GT, less than $100, so I can't complain. Thanks again every one.

I've got like 5 AGP cards sitting around ( and the PSU's to go with them..LOL )....technical antiques???

My XP rig is still AGP, running dual 1950 Pro's, and a PC Power and cooler 750 Silencer...hope the old goat keeps running...