BFG Technologies GeForce 7800GS OverClocked Graphics Card

Will not work with Dell Dimension 8000 series

Strengths: NA

Weakness: Won't work with my Dell Dimension 8250.

Got a great price on the card, was told it was compatible with my Dell based on the AGP slot (4x) and I even upgraded my PSU to make sure it had the amps and voltages this card required. But it never worked and got conflicting information from BFG tech support about the problem. First try: after uninstalling my ATI drivers (had a 9800 PRO) I put the card in and started up. The card was getting...
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Got a great price on the card, was told it was compatible with my Dell based on the AGP slot (4x) and I even upgraded my PSU to make sure it had the amps and voltages this card required. But it never worked and got conflicting information from BFG tech support about the problem.

First try: after uninstalling my ATI drivers (had a 9800 PRO) I put the card in and started up. The card was getting power, but my monitor (Dell 1800FP using DVI input) would not come out of power save mode (light remained amber). Called tech support, guy said there is a known issue with this card and all Dell Dimension 8000 series computers - something to do with the BIOS. BUT he said BFG had a fix - I could send it back and they'd send me a card that had its BIOS "flashed" so it would work.

Second try: sent it back, got a new one - yup you guessed it, same issue. Monitor acts like it's not hooked up to any card. Called tech support again, new guy said what the other guy told me was totally wrong, there was no fix for this known issue. He said this incompatibility also involves the Dell 4600. Said Dell is not cooperating with them to fix the issue. I asked him if he was totally sure, b/c the other guy was pretty clear about this "fix", and when I called their RMA department to check on my replacement card they understood why I was getting a new one and never said a word about there being no such fix. The guy puts me on hold to check and after a few minutes the line goes dead.

I'm going to call one last time (hope springs eternal), but looks like any of you Dell users out there with an 8000 series or 4600 shouldn't bother with this card.

By rbebabsb - Feb 25, 2007

Awesome AGP Car!!!

Strengths: The BFGR78256GSOC is a welcome upgrade from my old 6800. Playing FEAR, NFSUCBE, Scarface and Splinter Cell Double agent is just amazing! A must have for anyone who still has a AGP slot!

Weakness: None found as a now.

The literature says you need a 400W MINIMUM power supply with 20A on the 12V rail. Well, not exactly. I am running just fine with a Sparkle 350W advertising 18A on the 12v rail. Replaced the Antec SmartPower 350 that came with the case to take advantage of the larger 120mm single fan vs two smaller units on the Antec. The Smart-Power said it has 21A on the 12V rail but the Sparkle held the...
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The literature says you need a 400W MINIMUM power supply with 20A on the 12V rail. Well, not exactly. I am running just fine with a Sparkle 350W advertising 18A on the 12v rail. Replaced the Antec SmartPower 350 that came with the case to take advantage of the larger 120mm single fan vs two smaller units on the Antec. The Smart-Power said it has 21A on the 12V rail but the Sparkle held the voltage higher after extended gaming. Awesome card. Great price. Life is GOOD!!

By marcusverkler - Nov 18, 2006

Best upgrade solution for AGP user

Strengths: Already OCed. Clearly better FPS than my old 5950

Weakness: Price of course

As a last generation of AGP slot (Asus p4C800 Deluxe), this product is my best invest on my mainboard. The FPS is simply better than my old FX 5950. The cooling fan works like a charm comparing to the old card. I can only recommend it.

By Surfen - Nov 1, 2006

This card is able to keep up with...

Strengths: AGP, good cooling, and neat lighting effect.

Weakness: Some gaming glitches noted with The Elder Scrolls:Oblivion game, but it could be software related.

This card is able to keep up with current video demands, and allows older AGP systems to maintain its compatability with current gaming technology. This results in a failry low cost upgrade. You dont have to throw that older system out just yet.

By flintols - Jul 11, 2006

The best AGP card available in the USA.

Strengths: Good graphics output. Shader Model 3.0.

Weakness: It's size. The card is too long. It could have been over clocked some more.

Overall, very satisfied with it. It's much quieter than my old ATI Radeon X850xt Platinum Edition card, and only takes up one bay instead of two. I would recommend this card to the AGP users out there, but make sure you have a good power supply. (I have a 650W ATX)

By 00maxse - Apr 30, 2006