The question is: will a new graphics card improve my frame rates? I know from reading posts in this and other forums that FS2004 is mainly processor-dependent for fps but as I cannot afford to upgrade processor, ram and motherboard, the only thing I think I can afford to upgrade at the moment is my graphics card, a Geforce 3 200Ti. I get around 20-30 fps with medium settings flying in the virtual cockpit (1024x768, detailed 3D clouds, no traffic), but sometimes the scenery is much jerkier than others, even thought the fps counter can show a reasonable 25 for example. I also get 2 second stutters when approaching an airport. If I upgraded to a better graphics card (not top of the range obviously) would that help?ThanksDaveMy system is:Pentium 4 2.4 ghz, 512 mb RAM, 80Gb HDD, Creative Geforce 3 ti200.VFR scenery (UK), British Airports, VFR Terrain.

Dave,I am running a P4 2.4 Ghz and 2 weeks ago upgraded my GF 3 Ti 200 card to an ATI X700 Pro. Much like you, I didn't want to do a full upgrade, I was just thinking I can gain a little bit with only a Video Card Upgrade.After the upgrade, I did not gain any FPS at all. What I have noticed after spending some time with it is that graphics were somewhat smoother (i.e less stuttering though not completly gone)& I now don't take any FPS hit when in heavy clouds. The quality of the graphics are now MUCH better, sharp & crisp. So no, you wont gain any FPS (based on my experience & exact same setup as you) but you will see much better graphics all around & improved stuttering performance.Hope this helps you some.Jim