Graphics card and Power supply inquiries...

I am thinking about getting this graphics card: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16814102492
I was wondering if it would last a long time, and not become obsolete any time soon.
Also, i was wondering how to see if my power supply would have any problems with the card.
Thanks in advance.

 

*runs to Jbdans house, opens up his computer while he surfs MG forums *gets shocked by live PSU* Yeah! Looks good!

Depends what you consider obsolete, I feel that if you buy bleeding edge cards (400-600$) they will last you 1-2 years, maybe even more since now you have PCI-E with SLI options. The x800 is a generation old already, doesnt mean its a bad card though. It all comes down on how much money your gonna have and waste over the coming year, you got tons of money that card is good for about a month, your dirt poor then that cards good for a lifetime.

 

I opened up my computer and the power supply said 250 watts max output. The card says, "ALL-IN-WONDER X800 XT requires connection to your PC’s internal power supply for operation. A 300-watt power supply or greater is recommended to ensure normal system operation. A 350-watt power supply may be required in some fully-loaded PC systems where a number of other internal devices are installed."
I am wondering if I need a new power supply or not.
Also, if i do get a new one, are they hard to install?

 

Very likely you'll need one, consider a named brand one. youll have to plug in all your stuff back on, should take 5-10mins. If your bad w/memory take pictures /draw where is pluged into what.

 

Thanks for the help

 

Do the math.
Ya got 250, 300 min is recommended. IMO 300 is too small.
The PSU is a key part of your PC, not a good place to skimp or even underpower, more is better, Quality is important too.
The Graphics card you posted requires an AGP slot, make sure ya got one.
As for replacing PSU, thats not very difficult for most, who knows what you can or cant do?
What brand & model PC do you have? The real picture on what PSU you need depends on all the hardware you have & maybe even the brand of PC.

 

It's difficult to compare PSUs based only the the output, as they are rated according to the maximum they can supply (for a split second) not the max sustained output. Generally you get what you pay for. i.e. a £15 400W will probably be worse than a £30 300W.

If it's one of those cheap-ass PSUs that comes free with the case, then it's probably awful, but if it's a higher quality one then it could be OK.