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GTX 3050 6gb in Optiplex 5040 MT
My brother recently bought a used Optiplex 5040 MT and would like to add a graphics card to it so that he can use it as a gaming PC. All sources recommended a GTX 1650 or a RX 6400, but as we live in South Africa and our options are limited, I could only find models of those graphics cards that required an additional 6 pin power connector.
I have now found a GTX 3050 that is rated for 75 watts and draws all of its power from the motherboard. Will this be compatible with the PC? Would it require a PSU upgrade? While bottlenecking would be unfortunate, it is not a deal breaker due to the limited availability of parts.
Thank you
Chino de Oro
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July 10th, 2024 10:15
Yes, you can use the RTX 3050 6GB in the OptiPlex 5040 mini tower. The OEM 240w power supply is sufficient for your slot powered cards. There is no need for PSU upgrade.
redxps630
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July 10th, 2024 11:42
This is a professionally written guide on 5040 upgrade. https://www.hardware-corner.net/guides/optiplex-7040-upgrade/
“There are two parameters you need to be careful about – the GPU length and GPU height. In terms of height, don’t go over 5.5 inches (140 mm), this is the maximum you can go and still conveniently close the case lid. And because the case is now shorter the length is also reduced – 9 inches (230 mm) or less.”
“It is important to consider GPU size when using OptiPlex 7040, 3040, and 5040. This is primarily due to the slimmer and shorter case compared to the xx20 version. As a result, there is a smaller selection of GPU models available.”
joely_boiii
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July 10th, 2024 14:11
@Chino de Oro Thank you very much for the help!
joely_boiii
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July 10th, 2024 14:12
@redxps630 Thank you, I will have a read through of this!
bradthetechnut
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July 11th, 2024 03:21
Dell recommended a couple of 65w cards to go with the 5040.
The RTX 3050 is likely outside of Dell specs, but YouTubers often power 75w cards with 240w PSU.
1 Attachment
Dell-Optiplex-5040-spec-sheet.pdf