Graphics / Video Card

I am having a new pc built and the technician is not experienced with machines built for photos and editing purposes. We're both stuck on which card is the best candidate for the system.

- going with the Intel i7920 and 8GB of RAM to start
- Windows Pro 64 bit OS, I use PS3 Extended, LR2.6, NIK software etc, minimal gaming, photo editing and slideshows mostly now, but I may want to do some light video in the future.
- Monitor is a Lacie 320, and I would like dual monitor capability

This is what I understand is needed in a graphics card, from reading the forum and a little research:

- open GL
- offboard card (re i7 boards)
- dual outputs

What card would you recommend I get for this nice new system, practical but also optimized for photo editing as above.

Thanks!

I would find someone else to build it.
The i7 920 should be on a board with tri channel RAM, so it uses multiples of 3, not 2.
i.e either 6 or 9GB of ram, not 8GB in order to get the best performance.

In terms of video card, it really doesn't matter.
Even the most basic cards now days are more than up to the task.
Look for a mid range/price card with dual DVi out puts and you won't go wrong.

Moppie wrote in post #9750813
I would find someone else to build it.
The i7 920 should be on a board with tri channel RAM, so it uses multiples of 3, not 2.
i.e either 6 or 9GB of ram, not 8GB in order to get the best performance.

I suspect the OP probably just made a simple mistake about the memory. Easy mistake to make if you're use to thinking in dual-channel categories!

I personally think you can go even low-end on the graphics card [I.e. sub-$50 range!] and not lose much of anything.

My advice is to just check out a place like Newegg.com and see what vid cards they have on 'sale' that week....and then buy accordingly!

I personally think you can go even low-end on the graphics card [I.e. sub-$50 range!] and not lose much of anything.

You can go cheaper with Windows 7, but not too old. However, an nVidia 8400/9400 or better with 512megs of ram will do fine. Those can be gotten for just less than $50.

Thanks all, that helps.

Moppie, I'm afraid you just might be right - there have been a couple of small red flags but the RAM has to be a major one. 8-GB was part of the plan. Thank you for noticing and mentioning it!