i donno a whole lot about the internal parts of computers but i have a hp a1250n (http://reviews.cnet.com/desktops/hp-pavilion-a1250n-athlon/4505-3118_7-31533898.html) and I'm looking to get a new video card so my dvd's can play better as well as games. how do i know what is compatible with my computer as well as can i really go wrong with buying a after market video card (suggestions?). thanks
You have a PCI-E slot which means you can use any current series card , ATi or Nvidia whichever YOU prefer. Just look for "PCI Express x16 " and youll be good to go. http://www.newegg.com/Store/Category.aspx?Category=38&name=Video-Cards-Video-Devices This Card jumped out at me from the link, It uses PCi-E x16 And it an ATI based card, SAPPHIRE 100218L Radeon HD 2600XT 512MB 128-bit GDDR3 PCI Express x16 HDCP Ready CrossFire Supported Video Card http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102703 Good luck and best wishes.