The GeForce FX 5200 series is the fifth generation of graphics cards for computer . The card, by NVIDIA, features enhanced anti-aliasing techniques over its predecessors and is also one the first NVIDIA cards that makes use of the Microsoft DirectX 9 standard. Performance-wise, the FX 5200 range was aimed at the lower end of the gaming market and was replaced the MX440 series. NVIDIA licensed the use of their technology to other hardware manufacturers, such as Gainward, who designed their own version of the FX 5200.
AGP/PCI Slot
Depending on the model of Gainward GeForce FX 5200 you own, you will need either an accelerated graphics port or peripheral component interface slot on your motherboard. The AGP slot is a brown slot while the PCI slots are usually white. Refer to your motherboard user manual and the user manual of your Gainward card to see if you meet this requirement. Always go for the AGP version of the card if your motherboard supports -- the has a much better performance than the PCI version.
Operating System
The Gainward Geforce FX 5200 line of cards make use of the Microsoft Direct X 9 software, so a Windows operating system that supports this is required. While the card will work on systems operating on Windows 98 Second Edition or higher, it is recommended to use at least Windows XP with its latest service packs for best performance and compatibility.
Power Requirements
Since the Gainward Geforce FX 5200 is not a high-end graphics card, it does not require a top-of-the-line power supply unit, but you will want at least a 300W model with molex connectors -- the power connectors with the red, yellow and black wiring. A lot of the Gainward GeForce FX 5200 cards use passive cooling like heat sinks, but some of the higher-end models have fans that may require connection with a molex power cable.
Memory
The minimum memory system requirement for the Gainward FX 5200, as listed by the user manual, is 64MB, but it is highly recommended that at least 128MB or higher be present. Depending on what operating system you are running, a lot of RAM will be taken up by system processes, leaving less available for the card.
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