Do I need graphics card
#1
Hi,

I recently ordered myself all the components for HTPC. They are pretty much same as eskro mentioned in

[Micro-ATX] i3-540 2x3.06Ghz + GT210 ($314) : http://forum.xbmc.org/showpost.php?p=720...stcount=11

However, the gt210 graphics card had some part missing, so I ended up setting up my htpc without it (for now). I am about to return/replace the gt210 card.

My question is : Do I really need it? I saw the motherboard, and it says that I can play 1080 movies on it with intel i3. And I am actually able to do that (I think! Haven't done enough testing). My aim is to play 1080p movies from hard disk. No streaming. Flash yes. Linux yes.

The motherboard doesn't have socket for hdmi cable.

So, do I really need the graphics card?

Thanks again to everyone for being awesomely helpful
Reply
#2
Under Linux I would say yes you will need a GPU - an Nvidia GPU will be best for GPU decoding of content.

That "plays 1080p" sticker on the motherboard would be talking about Windows Video card drivers for the motherboard's (or is it CPU/i3?) GPU....
Reply
#3
It (mobo) says :
Requires a processor with intel graphics technology
supports full hd with dvi port
max shared memory 1759MB
pixel shader 4.0, directx 10

I have intel i3 540 processor.

What do you think? The motherboard is ASRock H55M LE
Reply
#4
i3 cpu's have onboard video that can be enabled only
when installed on a H55 motherboard..

Yes this can make u play 1080P movies,
however, seen many posts about users having problems
using this combination,,,

thats why i suggest you to buy the cheapest gt210 gpu card at least..
Reply
#5
Ok. I guess I will get my gt210 card replaced then!
Reply

Logout Mark Read Team Forum Stats Members Help
Do I need graphics card0