is there any way i can tell what a graphics card is just by looking at it. I know the one in my PC has a sticker saying 8600GT on it, but i have been given a free computer with a graphics card, and cant be arsed to wire it up and turn it on. Iv'e had a look on the card and the only thing on it is a sticker saying VG.570VE.256. Anyone know if that would tell you the graphics card? I'm assuming the 256 is mb of G-RAM?

 

Unless the sticker says the name and model the answer is no, you would need to switch it on.
How long does that take? 2mins?

 

its unplugging everything out of my pc to do it lol

 

looks like you'll have to, i googled the above but nothing come up

 

i just tryed to turn it on and it is on xp pro aint it, with password protection that relies on the server so confirm the password (my mum's old work computer see), so the only way is to plug it into another PC, or format this one.

Quick Q, will belarc pick up the graphics card if the drivers arent installed, so i could plug it into another PC just to find out what it is?

 

everest home edition will pick it up.. and yes belarc should do too

 

cheers

 

should do, the info wont be as specific as it would be if you have the drivers installed though i dont think, but enough info for you anyway.

 

Start it in safe mode. Dont need a password then

 

tried that, it does cos It's XP Pro not home

 

I have xp pro and it works ok for me

 

This work PC is most likely setup to access programs through a domain or citrix as its a work PC. This saves many copies of programs having to be installed. As for safe mode there will most likely be and administrator password.

Stephen, what make and model is the PC itself? Is it an HP or Compaq by any chance?

 

nope it is a non-descript PC from a local custom PC building company. Doesn't Matter now anyway, as I took out the graphics card and one of the 256 stick of ram (to put in my dad's pc) and sold the rest on for 25 quid