Here are some tips to help you check whether your PC can handle your next GPU.
Can Your PSU Power the GPU?
The PSU converts incoming AC power to regulated DC power and supplies it to your PC components.
Justin Duino / How-To Geek
When installing a new hardware component, you must ensure that thePSU can handle the additional power demand.
Insufficient power supply can cause performance issues or prevent your system from even detecting the card.
Add the total power requirement of PC components and subtract it from the PSU wattage.
Justin Duino / How-To Geek
If the net power demand exceeds the PSU wattage, you’ll need to upgrade your power supply unit.
The power connector can be 6-pin, 8-pin, or 12-pin.
Additionally, the motherboard provides around 75W of power from the PCIe x16 slot.
The connectors are typically arranged in two rows.
So, choose a connector based on what your PSU supports and can power your GPU.
Otherwise, you may have difficulty connecting the graphics card or getting stable power.
Each PCIe generation has different data transfer rates.
Does Your PC Have Enough Space for the GPU?
Then, confirm that the GPU can fit properly.
If there’s any congestion around it, there may not be enough airflow to cool it down properly.
That can cause it to overheat and impede the performance of your card.
TheGPU cooler typeyour card has will influence what counts as sufficient airflow.
Pinpointing bottlenecks in your system’s components is pretty straightforward, but predicting potential bottlenecks can be more challenging.
However, note that bottleneck calculators aren’t always reliable.
Will the GPU Meet Your Needs?
Lastly, keep in mind theintended use of the GPU you plan to purchase.
If it’s primarily for gaming, confirm it offers the power needed for your desired gaming experience.
For high-performance gaming, the AMD RadeonRX 6750 XTcould be a good choice.
Likewise, if you’re on a budget, the AMD RadeonRX 6600might be a good choice.
The above tips can help you check the compatibility of the GPU you plan to buy with your system.
So, you don’t lose out on potential computing power.
