CNET editors' buying advice
We have not reviewed this product but here is CNET's buying advice on Graphics Cards. This content was chosen based on the features included with this model of graphics card.
Media Center Graphics Card
One of the popular attempted 'convergence devices' of recent years is the media center PC. This can range from a computer with a normal monitor that can receive TV signals, to a central media server that can send movies to the main TV itself. A media center graphics card needs to be capable of outputting signals in a form with which TVs are likely to be compatible.
VGA Explanation
VGA cables (and CRT monitors) use an analog signal. Both video cards and modern LCD monitors internally use digital signals. This means that when using a VGA cable with an LCD monitor, the signal is being converted from digital to analog and back again. Currently, converters are good enough that it isn't a real issue, but technically the signal is being degraded every time it is converted. So if you are using an LCD monitor that supports DVI, it is best to get a graphics card that does the same and to use a DVI cable.
See more VGA Explanation products
CNET product brief
Description: The MSI GeForce FX 5200 is a 128 MB, mainstream 3D card.Compared to other mainstream 3D display cards on the market, it is very inexpensive at around $20.
Pros: This card has a video out feature that lets you display content on a TV set, rather than a monitor.
Cons: This card's AGP 8x interface is slower than that of the standard graphics card that is available today.
Suitability: Suited for all productivity tasks, as well as for the casual 3D gamer.
Value: Overall, this graphics card's features are as expected for this price.
Suggestions: (1) Since this card is DVI-capable, you might want a DVI-enabled monitor or a flat-panel display to connect with it -- this will pass the digital video signal directly without converting it to analog, making for better performance.(2) For Editor's Reviews of the latest graphics cards, visit the graphics and sound section of CNET's website.
CNET's Product Briefs are generated by a software tool that combines product specifications with knowledge of our editorial experts. They do not reflect hands-on assessment or labs testing. For more information about how we create Product Briefs, contact us.
Where to buy
MSI GeForce FX 5200 (AGP 8x, 128MB):
$21.99
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