Video card recommendation

[werc]

I just purchased a new Dell 4600 2.8 800 fsb. It has onboard video, Intel Extreme Graphics 2. I do very little if any gaming. The games I do play are more of the arcade type. My question is, is the onboard video good enough for video editing, which is my primary intent for this system? Would it be better to get an agp video card, and if so which one? I don't want to spend a whole heck of a lot of money on one if I don't need to.

Thanks for your thoughts!

[Treebeard]

video card does not really relate to video editing, cpu / ram is more of a concern.

[holistic]

......is the onboard video good enough for video editing.

Yes.

So long as the onboard chip isn't 'stealing' too much RAM from your main memory you should do OK.
Video is 2D ,so the only main concerns are the ususal : sufficient resolution, color and refresh rate to satisfy YOU and your monitor.

If that 4600 comes with 512Mb ram then perhaps allocate 32Mb to video and you will be fine.

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[werc]

Wow, I had no idea I would be ok with what I have! That is great. As a rule of thumb, is any video card better than onboard video? For instance, if I picked up a $20 agp card, would that be better than no card at all, or would it be a step backwards?

I really appreciate your willingness to answer what I am sure is very basic for most.

[Treebeard]

It depended on what you got for your $20 bucks. bost most likely would be a waste of $20 im my opinion. spend that $20 on some blank DVD's

[holistic]

The Intel Extreme Graphics 2 is sufficient for your purpose.
You will see no difference between the onboard video and a $20 AGP card. (perhaps the onboard will be better in this case)
Spend your money on a DVD burner if you didn't already get one.

Of course a $100 + card will make a diference but remember video is 2D not 3D and you will gain no advantage from a "gaming" card.
The only purpose for getting a video card (as opposed to onboard) is to get one with VIVO . Video In Video Out for analog captures and TV viewing.

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