How upgradeable is the A52 Desktop?

[HamTard]

I'm looking at an A52 with the X700, but I'm wondering if the X700 is a PCI-Express x16 card. If I want to upgrade in the future to a better video card that is PCI-E x16, will I be able to remove the X700 and put in a newer card? What about the A51 with integrated graphics, does it come with a PCI-Express x16 slot for me to upgrade with? If so, it would be a better deal to get the A51, and add my own X800 video card for just slightly more money than it would cost to buy an A52 with the X700.

[bhtooefr]

The new ThinkCentre A52 models include the Intel 945 Express family of chipsets, providing leading technology and fast performance; integrated Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950 with an upgradable 16x PCI Express slot; eight USB 2.0 ports; DDR2 memory; a range of optional optical devices, and a choice of optional ThinkVision™ monitors — all wr=apped up in a toolless design.

It says it's got a PCIe slot, and that it's got an i945 chipset. Seeing as all i9xx chipsets don't support AGP, only PCIe, I'd say that this'd meet your needs. (*grumbles that there aren't any A64-equipped ThinkCentres, so I can't recommend a ThinkCentre to anyone who wants a prebuilt*)

[jtreble]

I would also suggest that you look at an A52 "p-series" box. I have used/serviced both the A51 and the A51p and the latter is of a much higher quality.

[gonzy]

hey guys! i have the same problem but i have already bought the A52, an 8168-KAC to be exact, last February. Just found out (after purchasing a GeForce 7600GT) that my computer's psu is only a 310 watt unit... i know, i should've checked first... the 7600 GT or any graphics card worth purchasing has/have a minimum system power requirement of 350 watts.

Called up the IBM center in our country inquiring about a psu upgrade (500 watt) only to be informed that I can't and doing so would void my warranty. It's pretty hard to accept that I'm stuck with only the lower range of graphics cards so I was hoping to get some answers/confirmation here. Can anyone confirm this? Sent an email to the IBM help center but no response 'til now.

I apologize if it seems like I'm rushing as i truly am because the people who sold me the 7600 GT gave me 'til then end of the week to return the card if I can't use it.