Windows Aero Issue

[ssheperd]

I built a computer and would like to purchase Windows 7. I conducted the system compatibility test and the system passed with the exception of Windows Aero - Your current graphics adapter won't support the Windows Aero user interface. I would like the Windows 7 Aero experience but trying to avoid the added expense of a new graphics card. The only graphics card I have on hand is an older AGP Nvidia geforce 6200. Here is my system information:

CPU - Intel (Pentium 4) 2.80GHz
Motherboard - Intel D865GLC
Memory - 1.73GB
Graphics Card - Intel® 82865G Graphics Controller
Hard Drive - Western Digital 320GB

Any suggestions to save me some cash would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

[yowanvista]

Use your older 6200, it will be supported as Nvidia still supports it

 

[Lordbob75]

Use your older 6200, it will be supported as Nvidia still supports it

This.

You could also buy a slightly newer AGP card for a small amount, but that is up to you.

~Lordbob

 

[ssheperd]

Thanks for the responses; much appreciated. To make sure I'm understanding, the older geforce 6200 will meet Windows 7 Areo requirements? If not, any suggesetions for a slighty newer AGP card that is not too expensive?

 

[stormy13]

I would try the 6200 first as has already been stated it is still receiving support for Windows 7. I wouldn't go with the latest driver for it as it is geared more towards the latest cards than one that old and go with something like this one,

NVIDIA DRIVERS 197.45 WHQL

Another reason for going with the 6200 instead of getting another card is how well the AGP driver for the chipset will work, and I'm not too sure how well the one from that old Intel chipset will work (if at all like in the case of the old Nforce 3 AGP chipsets). If it doesn't work then it won't matter which AGP card you put in as the driver for the card will not install.

 

[ssheperd]

I just may be in luck. Looking through some old hardware I had boxed up, I came across an ATI Radeon grahics card. I found the specs here: PCIE/AGP GRAPHIC CARDS: ATI X300 PCIE 128MB GRAPHIC CARD (HM300L-C3). I do see it supports DirectX v9.0. but for some reason I decided not to use it but can't remember why. Please advice and thanks!

If a no go I'll try the 6200

 

[stormy13]

but for some reason I decided not to use it but can't remember why.

Because the card is PCI-E (not to be confused with the totally different PCI), and the motherboard only has PCI (up to 6) and AGP (no more than 1) slots.

Intel® Desktop Board D865GLC — Product guides for Intel® Desktop Board D865GLC

 

[ssheperd]

I'll try the 6200 and if that doesn't meet the aero requirements I'll look around for a reliable, inexpensive card. Thanks for the help! This is really a great site.