How to get better FPS?

[evilzucchini]

My system:
Intel 875P mobo
Pentium 4 2.4GHz processor
1 G of DDR Ram
GeForce 6800GT videocard, AGP 8X

I just bought the videocard because my last one was crap (not sure what, but it only had 128 Ram) and I was hoping this would give me a huge boost to my frame rates at higher settings. I was running on low

I installed it, updated my drivers and put everything on high with AAx2. This worked great when I went into a fairly empty Wake server and drove around. I was super happy with how it looked and my FPS.

However, when I started playing busier games, I was VERY jumpy and my FPS routinely fell below 30 and was unplayable at times. So I lowered all of the settings to medium and no AA. This is playable, but I still have some issues from time to time.

I was wondering if anyone knew of a way to fix this problem, or if I should just wait until my next computer to really upgrade everything. Will buying more RAM for my comp help?

[imported_sandman]

Re: How to get better FPS?

Another GB of RAM almost always solves people's performance problems if they have other good parts like you do. However, I think your processor may be keeping you from using all high settings with AA. Gimme a little more info on your CPU, like how much cache, what FSB is it, what socket type? Does it have hyperthreading?

[evilzucchini]

Re: How to get better FPS?

Sand, thanks for your help
More info on my processor:

BX80532PG2400D
HT technology
2.4 Ghz
800Mhz FSB
478 socket
20KB L1
512 KB L2

And, i don't necessarily want to play on all High settings; I definitely prefer playability over how it looks. . . however, having it look good is definitely a plus. :)

[imported_sandman]

Re: How to get better FPS?

If you just get another GB of RAM, you'll be able to play with medium-high settings overall while maintining good fps. If you have 2x512MB get another set, and if you only have a 1GB stick (which can't run dual channel by itself, by the way), then make sure to get another 1GB stick that matches yours (same brand, make/model, speed and timings).

If you have the money, then upgrade to 2GB of RAM and get a new CPU at the same time, and you'll be cruisin' on high settings .

[evilzucchini]

Re: How to get better FPS?

If you have the money, then upgrade to 2GB of RAM and get a new CPU at the same time, and you'll be cruisin' on high settings

Again, thanks for all your help.

I have two 512s now, so I would do the same to keep the dual chanel.

And I DO have the money for a new processor and memory, but I am real torn about saving it to get a new computer a while down the road. . .we'll see. . .I will probably convince myself to buy a new processor. :)

I hear such good things AMD for gaming, which is mainly what I want the power in my computer for, so I would want to go that direction. So, if I get a new intel processor, it will be useless if and when I move over to AMD. On top of that, my graphics card is AGP, and so when I get a new mobo, it would most likey be PCI-X so already that component will be useless. We'll see. . . maybe I will ask for one for Xmas. :)

[evilzucchini]

Re: How to get better FPS?

Another question to anyone who could answer it.

I know to run dual channel memory you need to match memory.

However, could I have kingston memory modules that match each other in slot one of each channel and cosair memory modules that match each other in the second slot of each channel?

I guess my question is do all 4 modules have to match? Or can I use two sets?

[Mr. ADHD]

Re: How to get better FPS?

Okay...I can't comment on your video card, but I've played BF2 with 1 Gig of ram it had no problems, but my processor was faster. I'm running all on high with AAx4. with 45-60 FPS. Rare stuttering...

I'd upgrade the processor and keep the vidcard if it's good. Your ram is average. 1gig of ram or greater is exceptional. What I do recommend to you and anyone else....if you're looking to buy and upgrade...think long term....if you drop an extra 50-100$ on a good video card, it'll last you on the next 1-2 computer upgrades (depending).

In your case can you return the card and buy a better one? but by the sounds of it you need a new processor.

Don't throw good money after bad money. If you're tight...and can do with lower graphics. get ram and/or a new processor....if you have cash...go for a more expensive card....or all of the above.

and no I didn't proof read this.

[Dethred]

Re: How to get better FPS?

Get at least 512mb of ram, and get a better CPU. Ram will get rid of stuttering, but going from that CPU to a 3500+ like I did will get you 150-200% better frame rates. You're screwed either way, get the CPU and you'll get stuttering. Get the Ram and your FPS will still suck.

[mrbucket]

Re: How to get better FPS?

Sand, thanks for your help
More info on my processor:

BX80532PG2400D
HT technology
2.4 Ghz
800Mhz FSB
478 socket
20KB L1
512 KB L2

And, i don't necessarily want to play on all High settings; I definitely prefer playability over how it looks. . . however, having it look good is definitely a plus. :)

That cpu is a winner! If you want to overclock and do it well, you can get that particular one up to 3.4ghz. Do you have good cooling? I had a 2.6 and it would stay at 2.9 but your 2.4 is a much better overclocker, check it out, it may cure some issues.

[evilzucchini]

Re: How to get better FPS?

Cool, Thanks everyone. Good pointers.

mrbucket, thanks, I didn't even think about that. I think I will try overclocking first. I am not sure if I have good cooling. . .I do have 2 fans on my case. . .is that enough, do you think? (and then, of course, one on my processor and one on my videocard)

Seriously, overclocking is something I have never given any thought to. I think I will look into that tonight.

[mrbucket]

Re: How to get better FPS?

Cool, Thanks everyone. Good pointers.

mrbucket, thanks, I didn't even think about that. I think I will try overclocking first. I am not sure if I have good cooling. . .I do have 2 fans on my case. . .is that enough, do you think? (and then, of course, one on my processor and one on my videocard)

Seriously, overclocking is something I have never given any thought to. I think I will look into that tonight.

You should have at least an exhaust out the back to pump air out and suck cool air in. Is your stock HSF adequate to cool the processor? Probably, just keep off the VCore.

[evilzucchini]

Re: How to get better FPS?

I *think* the two fans are one on the side and one on the top. It is in the coolest room in the house and will only cool further now that we are coming into winter.

How much can I expect if I don't raise the VCore?

And how can I increase cooling (I am sure these are things I can look up).

[mrbucket]

Re: How to get better FPS?

I *think* the two fans are one on the side and one on the top. It is in the coolest room in the house and will only cool further now that we are coming into winter.

How much can I expect if I don't raise the VCore?

And how can I increase cooling (I am sure these are things I can look up).

Your intel board is probably locked, sorry i wasnt paying attention earlier, you have limited options. Intel started locking there boards after retailers were overclocking the comp's and selling them at a higher clock for more money. I had a gateway and i replaced the mobo to open up all my options in bios. That may be your only choice.

[evilzucchini]

Re: How to get better FPS?

NOOOOO!!!

you are a freakin tease.