Recently due to some instablity issues with a couple high performance games, I purchased an Antec 500W power supply to replace my 350W stock Dell power supply. When I checked the temperatures on my video card using ATI tool, they were a little bit lower than what i had with my 350, but the card still idles at around 53-55C and jumps up to about 78 when really pushing it.
Now I have really no experience with heat and cooling issues and so i was wondering if that amount of heat is too much long term for the card? I have a Dell 8400 but have upgraded with an X800 XL, 4X512mb pc2-4200, tv tuner, wireless pci card, and a total of 3 7200rpm sata HDD's. All of those things plus the cables of the new PSU make for a pretty cramped and close-quartered case that only has the powersupply fans and one case fan. I was wondering, if the heat is an issue, would putting all my hardware in a roomier case with another fan or two significantly help out the heat?
Also, if i do need to upgrade cases, could you guys recommend a decent one for under 100 bucks that is compatabile with Dell 8400 mobos? (I think they are BTX but i'd like a case that supports both BTX and ATX for possible future upgrades) I know this is alot to read and alot of questions, but i would appricate the feedback as it will help me learn more about this area in computers and help me to figure out what needs to be done
Now I have really no experience with heat and cooling issues and so i was wondering if that amount of heat is too much long term for the card? I have a Dell 8400 but have upgraded with an X800 XL, 4X512mb pc2-4200, tv tuner, wireless pci card, and a total of 3 7200rpm sata HDD's. All of those things plus the cables of the new PSU make for a pretty cramped and close-quartered case that only has the powersupply fans and one case fan. I was wondering, if the heat is an issue, would putting all my hardware in a roomier case with another fan or two significantly help out the heat?
Also, if i do need to upgrade cases, could you guys recommend a decent one for under 100 bucks that is compatabile with Dell 8400 mobos? (I think they are BTX but i'd like a case that supports both BTX and ATX for possible future upgrades) I know this is alot to read and alot of questions, but i would appricate the feedback as it will help me learn more about this area in computers and help me to figure out what needs to be done