System issues and crashes with SL, need advice on upgrade

I posted this at the SLU, but thought I'd post it here as well.

I have a laptop that I use for SL most of the time, but I'd like to start using my desktop because it is a more powerful system. Unfortunately, every time I try to use my desktop to connect to SL, either the viewer crashes, the computer freezes, or I'll get the infamous BSOD.

Here is the specs for the Desktop. It is an HP that has not been upgraded (yet) that I bought when Circuit City was going out of business.

* AMD Phenom(tm) 9650 Quad-Core Processor at 2310 MHz (x4)
* Windows Vista Home Premium x64 Edition 6.0 (build: 6002) Service Pack 2
* 7GB RAM
* NVIDIA GeForce 6150SE nForce430 (Integrated RAMDAC) - Total Graphic Memory: 2159MB (128MB Dedicated Video)
* Not sure on sound, but it tells me RealTek High Definition Audio. Most likely it is an integrated sound card.

I prefer Emerald and would like to use the Ultra graphics settings. I'm considering upgrading to Windows 7 x64 and getting a new graphics card. Not sure I need a sound card at this point. Anyone have any suggestions on how I can get my desktop working best for SL?

BTW: I do know it is my video card causing the crashes.

At Newegg, a 9800 series starts at about $80, or a GTX 260 starts around $150 (after MIR). If your power supply will take it, either of these are solid cards and will support HybridPower on your motherboard (allowing the system to use the onboard video for light uses, and kicking in the dedicated card when you open SL).

I can almost guarantee that HP will not have a power supply to hanle either the 9800 or the 260 cards mentioned. The 9800 card is looking for 400 to 450 watts (depending on the exact model of the card)..........I don't know about the 260 but it's in that area, I'm sure. I would be surprised if the HP has a power supply larger than 300 watts (my bet is it's smaller than that even).

A quick Newegg search found this power supply...........for 80 bucks I don't think you'll be able to beat it.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817371015

By the way, that's the same power supply I have in this system....it's a quiet one. If you look at the specs for the ps it says 650 watts continuous. I wouldn't push that though.....I'd stay 600 watts or below just to be safe.

Yeah, 300W power supply. Just noticed that before logging on here. I bought the PNY 9800GT on my way home from work although tempted to return it and buy both card and supply from Newegg. I was hoping to just get away with the video card and get hooked up tomorrow, but doesn't look like I would be that fortunate. At least I haven't opened the box yet. *grumbles at having to wait longer and pay more*