How to Buy an AGP Graphics Card

AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) graphics cards gained popularity over PCI cards as computers became increasingly graphically oriented. AGP cards are considered better as they ensure faster communication between the slot and the processor. They can also support functions like net surfing and 3-D graphics. Follow these steps to learn how to buy an AGP graphics card.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Check the slot compatibility of your computer. You can only install an AGP card in an AGP slot. Most computers have a pre-installed AGP slot but if you have one older than 1997, you must upgrade your machine.

2. Check the memory bandwidth of the card you want to buy. AGP cards are available in 1x, 2x, 4x and 8x bandwidths. Memory bandwidth refers to the speed at which the graphics processor communicates with the graphics memory.

3. Memory size refers to the extent to which it can support graphics operations without tapping into the PC’s memory. The more memory it has, the faster it works. Select a card with adequate memory space according to your need. AGP cards’ memory sizes range from 265MB to 1GB.

4. Keep in mind the additional facilities you would require in your AGP card. Check the models with the TV-out facility, which enables you to watch your PC video on a TV screen. A card with DVI enables you to watch a PC video on DVI monitors. A dual-head graphics card enables you to connect 2 monitors together on one graphics card.

5. Compare the prices of AGP cards online, using search engines like Google or Yahoo!, as well as in computer stores. Look at various buyers’ guides to understand features, pricing and versions of different AGP cards. For more information, see the Resources guide below.

Tips & Warnings

• Browse through product reviews on the Internet before you settle on a particular graphics card.
• Avoid buying unauthorized versions of AGP cards available in the market.