pick me out a videocard...

ok i'll take a gander at that when i get home and let u know, thanks for the fast replies (i hope to get a new videocard and all this sorted out in time for SCDA release on the 9th)

here is some info on my computer (not sure if this helps or if u still need me to read the info off my psu)

http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/dim8400/SM/specs.htm#wp1052308

+12VA = 18.0A

+12VA & +12VB output is 28A


does that tell u what u needed to know?

I think that may be pushing it. A new PSU shouldn't cost u too much. Fortron FSP and Antec have 450W ones available for around $40-50.

what do i need to know to make sure i get one that will fit?

If your old PSU is a standard ATX one, any normal PSU from Antec or Fortron for example should fit perfectly.

how do i know if its a standard atx?

I googled it, and it seems you have a normal, ATX 350W PSU, and it doesn't appear to be a proprietary PSU, so you should be fine.

However, listen to what other members say

what do u mean i should be fine? like i shouldnt need another psu with that videocard or what?

I meant that you should be fine with a new PSU. It should fit your case

could u post a link to a good one that would fit?

This would be adequate enough. The rebate makes it $52, which is dirt cheap for a 500W high-quality PSU.

you can look at your psu inside your case to make sure it is an atx as well.
Look HERE

See on the label how it says ATX 12V in red at the top? If your PSU says ATX on it then any ATX will fit just fine. How much do you want to spend on a new PSU? I agree with everyone that you should definitely upgrade it. Look for one with dual 12V rails, this increases system stability across different devices.
I like FSP or Fortron PSUs like these and I also like ANTEC Truepower series.

One last piece of advice = stay away from the budget PSU. You do not want bad power going to all of your expensive components. Spend a little more, get one that lasts and the rest of your system will last longer too.

This is a pretty good thread with plenty of info about PSUs...

Cheers

hi

Post any other questions you have... and I will check back later

FSP Group AX450-Pn 450W looks great. It's cheap, and very good.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16817104954

i reccomend an antec smartpower. the 400w is $55, the 450 is $60, and the 500 is $75 (also features modular cabling). i use smartpowers all the time and they are always reliable, powerful, and quiet.

Both Antec and FSP Fortron produce good-quality, reliable and inexpensive PSUs. So it doesn't matter whichever he takes, both are equally good.