Oh the compatibility...

[sam13lfc]

This is the last time I post a "help" topic I swear, I've posted like four. But I have a question, would there be any problems with putting a new graphics card (say GeForce 9500) and new RAM in a computer that I bought in 2001? What kind of compatibility issues are there and how could I counter them?

Thanks for the help people.

Edit: Just so you know, my budget isn't high enough for entirely new PC's, but I can get good quality, current-gen graphics cards.

 

[Xorghul]

Never say never.

OT: Don't really know much about computers but you have the right drivers?

 

[esperandote]

im not an expert but as long the slots are the same a think you would be able to do so, at least the ram that's for sure, but probably youll have the speed reduced to the motherboard bus speed. there might be some cpu compatibilities issues with the graphic card.

RAM will likely work if it fits the slot.
Graphic card maybe.

 

[jp11]

It depends largely on what the computer can handle, you may try going to a computer parts site, plug in your system info, and see what parts are compatible (I'd suggest newegg.com). Alternatively, just take it into a Fry's Electronics or Best Buy.

 

[HT_Black]

If it fits, it works. In short: buy the biggest computer you can find and hope of the best.

Alternatively, you can crowbar your new, incredibly large card into your current box and hope for the best.

 

[sam13lfc]

im not an expert but as long the slots are the same a think you would be able to do so, at least the ram that's for sure, but probably youll have the speed reduced to the motherboard bus speed. there might be some cpu compatibilities issues with the graphic card.

RAM will likely work if it fits the slot.
Graphic card maybe.

I have a 2.53 GHZ Intel Pentium IV CPU, do you think this could have issues with compatibility with newer graphics cards?

 

[sam13lfc]

Never say never.

OT: Don't really know much about computers but you have the right drivers?

I'm not sure, I have an old Nvidia Geforce card at the moment and I have the drivers for that, do you get these drivers from the internet?

 

[Jedamethis]

If it doesn't fit, bash it with a hammer.
That is about the extent of my computer knowledge

Spoiler: and this

 

[Shapsters]

If it doesn't fit, bash it with a hammer.
That is about the extent of my computer knowledge

Spoiler: and this

That right there is so very true. My mom always praises me on how much of an expert I am but this is literally all I do.

 

[pipboy2010]

im not an expert but as long the slots are the same a think you would be able to do so, at least the ram that's for sure, but probably youll have the speed reduced to the motherboard bus speed. there might be some cpu compatibilities issues with the graphic card.

RAM will likely work if it fits the slot.
Graphic card maybe.

I have a 2.53 GHZ Intel Pentium IV CPU, do you think this could have issues with compatibility with newer graphics cards?

You'd have to check the requirements for the GFX card. If you're aiming pretty low end then I doubt you'd have much of an issue there. The RAM might be more tricky though. The RAM will only run as fast as your motherboard will allow, so if you buy brand new ram (say at 533MHz) and your motherboard only supports up to 333Mhz, 333Mhz is the best you'll get regardless of how good the RAM may be.

 

[pipboy2010]

Also, if your PC is from 2001 you'll likely have to buy an AGP graphics card. If your motherboard doesn't support more than 2 or 4x AGP you won't get the best out of it.

 

[esperandote]

im not an expert but as long the slots are the same a think you would be able to do so, at least the ram that's for sure, but probably youll have the speed reduced to the motherboard bus speed. there might be some cpu compatibilities issues with the graphic card.

RAM will likely work if it fits the slot.
Graphic card maybe.

I have a 2.53 GHZ Intel Pentium IV CPU, do you think this could have issues with compatibility with newer graphics cards?

i did a little research and that GC uses pci express slot, i doubt a not so recent computer as one you might need a agp or regular pci card. :S