Star Wars the old Republic system requirements

[Eagle_Guy]

Hello all,

So I just my copy of the Old Republic and needed to know what i needed to do for it to run better. Can't even see my character. Here are my system specs:

Sony VAIO
Processor:Intel Pentium(R) Dual-Core CPU T4200 @ 2.00GHz
Memory(RAM): 3.00 GB
OS: Windows Vista 64-bit
Graphics card: Intel GMA X4500MHD

It looks like my dedicated graphics memory is 128 MB, which i don't think is enough. Some help on what i should do would be appreciated, even if i need to play the game on its lowest graphic system.

BTW, Got this laptop in July of 2009 and it hasn't failed me yet:)

[Joey]

- Sony VAIO laptop -
Processor: Intel Pentium T4200 2.00 GHz
RAM: 3 GB
Graphics Card: Intel GMA X4500 MHD
OS: Windows Vista 64-bit

Hello Eable-Guy, thanks for posting your specs.

The 3 GB of RAM exceeds the minimums. The Intel GMA X4500MHD barely meets the Star Wars: The Old Republic minimum system requirements at the line. The Pentium T4200 is a little below the SWTOR minimums.

Despite the underpowered Pentium T4200 and the Intel GMA X4500MHD you still can run SWTOR smoothly. But you will have to play at the lowest graphics settings possible. Follow my guide below to optimize SWTOR on your Sony VAIO.

#1 – It is very important to fully update Vista via Microsoft Windows Update. Make sure every single update is downloaded and installed, then restart your PC and check if there are any new updates that suddenly appeared.
In case you need it I created a tutorial on how to full update Windows Vista: http://www.cleartechinfo.com/Learn-How-To-Update-Vista-Using-Windows-Update

#2 – Download the latest drivers for the Intel GMA X4500MHD graphics card from the Intel site:
http://downloadcenter.intel.com/Detail_Desc.aspx?agr=Y&DwnldID=20601&ProdId=2991&lang=eng&OSVersion=Windows%20Vista%2064*&DownloadType=Drivers
If the above drivers give you any trouble installing then option 2 is going to the Intel system test below and having Intel scan your Sony to recommend other drivers.
http://www.intel.com/support/detect.htm?iid=dc_iduu

#3 – Restart your computer after the Intel graphics drivers are finished installing

#4 – Make sure the laptop is plugged into the A/C power adapter. If it is unplugged the processor will probably be powered down to save batter life. This is bad for gaming and will decrease frame rates (it sometimes makes a compatible laptop fall into the non-compatible category).

#5 – Place the laptop on a flat surface like a table or desk before and during gameplay; preferably in a cool area. The last thing you want to do is play with the laptop on your lap. Laptop overheating might also cause your laptop to power down your CPU, which you do not want to happen.

#6 – Download and Install the Free version of “Game Booster”: http://www.iobit.com/gamebooster.html
In case you need it, the latest video tutorial I created was on how to install and optimize Game Booster. The video is at the end of the article: http://www.cleartechinfo.com/How-To-Get-Less-Lag-Higher-Frame-Rates-running-PC-Games-Game-Booster

#7 – Run Game Booster, then Run SWTOR (but DO NOT play it yet).

#8 - Go into the graphics settings and copy every single graphics setting in the screenshot I took.
http://i.minus.com/jKyprc8d4Bucz.png

#9 – Play SWTOR.


Btw, the Intel GMA X4500MHD is an “integrated / on-board” graphics card. Those types borrow from your system RAM. So you have 3 GB, it borrows memory from there.

[Leighton_Death1]

I have installed swtor onto my PC and when I try to run it the screen goes "funny" black with lines of horizontal colour, one being the mouse as when I move my mouse up and down the line moves.

I am currently using:
OS: windows 7
Processor: AMD ATHLONII X2 215 processor 2.70GHz
RAM: 2.00GB 1.75GB usable,
Display adepts: Nvidia Geforce 9200.

Could one of these be a problem that I need to upgrade?
If I need to upgrade what could
Anyone recommend?

[jneitzke]

Hello! I believe I already know the problem as to why I can't SWTOR efficiently and its due to my outdated graphics card; I was wondering what is a good moderately priced card that would allow me to play this on like the medium setting. That and any additional improvements that you want to suggest are more than welcome. Oh! Sorry for posting on your question, didn't see the point seeing that it was a similar question.

I am currently using:
HPE-112y
OS: Windows 7 Home Premium 64 bit version
Processor: AMD Phenom II X4 925 processor 2.80 GHz
RAM: 8.00 gb
Graphics Card: ATI Radeon HD 4350

[Joey]

I have installed swtor onto my PC and when I try to run it the screen goes "funny" black with lines of horizontal colour, one being the mouse as when I move my mouse up and down the line moves.

I am currently using:
OS: windows 7
Processor: AMD ATHLONII X2 215 processor 2.70GHz
RAM: 2.00GB 1.75GB usable,
Display adepts: Nvidia Geforce 9200.

Could one of these be a problem that I need to upgrade?
If I need to upgrade what could
Anyone recommend?

Your computer does pass the Star Wars: The Old Republic minimum system requirements. Due to the slow graphics card (for SWTOR standards) it will only run at very low graphics settings.

Follow my guide below to fix the issue and allow it to run at low graphics settings…

#1 – It is very important to fully update Windows 7. Make sure all of the updates are installed then restart your PC. Check for new updates that popped up after the restart.
If you need it I created a tutorial on this subject: http://www.cleartechinfo.com/How-To-Update-Windows-7-Microsoft-Windows-Update

#2 – Download the latest drivers for the nVidia GeForce 9200 graphics card. Download and install it from the nVidia site below.
http://www.nvidia.com/Download/index.aspx?lang=en-us

#3 – Restart your computer after the graphics drivers are finished installing

#4 – Download and Install the Free version of “Game Booster”: http://www.iobit.com/gamebooster.html
In case you need it, the latest video tutorial I created was on how to install and optimize Game Booster. The video is at the end of the article: http://www.cleartechinfo.com/How-To-Get-Less-Lag-Higher-Frame-Rates-running-PC-Games-Game-Booster

#5 – Run Game Booster, then Run SWTOR (but DO NOT play it yet).

#6 - Go into the graphics settings and copy every single graphics setting in the screenshot I took.
http://i.minus.com/jKyprc8d4Bucz.png

#7 – Play SWTOR.


Further Advice:
* If you have a Laptop…
– Make sure the laptop is plugged into the A/C power adapter before and during SWTOR gameplay. If it is unplugged the processor will probably be powered down to save batter life. This is bad for gaming and will decrease frame rates (it sometimes makes a compatible laptop fall into the non-compatible category).

– Place the laptop on a flat surface like a table or desk before and during gameplay; preferably in a cool area. The last thing you want to do is play with the laptop on your lap. Laptop overheating might also cause your laptop to power down your CPU, which you do not want to happen.

- Upgrade to 4 GB of RAM (aka “memory”). Get your laptop model number and look it up on Amazon. (Example: Do an Amazon search for, “HP DV6 memory”)

* If you have a Desktop…
- Upgrade the graphics card asap. Below are my recommendations…
Around $60 – Radeon HD 6570 (This graphics card will blow away the current one you have in performance. No comparison really.)
Around $106 – Radeon HD 6770 (This is capable of playing SWTOR at very high settings.)
Around $140 – Radeon HD 6850 (The graphics card is more than capable of maxing out every single graphics setting. With this graphics card the slow parts on your system will be your CPU and RAM)

- Upgrade to 4 GB of RAM

[Joey]

Hello! I believe I already know the problem as to why I can't SWTOR efficiently and its due to my outdated graphics card; I was wondering what is a good moderately priced card that would allow me to play this on like the medium setting. That and any additional improvements that you want to suggest are more than welcome. Oh! Sorry for posting on your question, didn't see the point seeing that it was a similar question.

I am currently using:
HPE-112y
OS: Windows 7 Home Premium 64 bit version
Processor: AMD Phenom II X4 925 processor 2.80 GHz
RAM: 8.00 gb
Graphics Card: ATI Radeon HD 4350

Hello. You posted in the correct area, no worries 

I recommend buying the Radeon HD 6570. You can get it from Amazon and NewEgg for around $60. It can definitely run SWTOR at medium settings when combined with your CPU and RAM.

When you buy the Radeon HD 6570 be sure to NOT use the driver CD that comes in the box. The drivers are outdated, just like most new ones you buy. AMD/ATI released new drivers that run smoothly on SWTOR. Get them here: http://support.amd.com/us/gpudownload/Pages/index.aspx

Further advice would be similar to what I gave "Leighton_Death1".
- Make sure Windows 7 is fully up-to-date.
- Download/Install and run the free app Game Booster

[Stu2661]

Hi,
Thinking of buying the game wondering if i could run it to a decent capacity?

Specs :

Pentium(R) Dual-Core CPU T4200 @ 2.00GHz
Ram : 4.5 GB
OS : Windos Vista 64 Bit
Graphics Card : ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4570



Regards,
Stu

[Joey]

Hi Stu. Thanks for posting all of your specs. The RAM and HD 4570 are easily above the Star Wars: The Old Republic minimum system requirements.
The CPU is a little under the minimums. You will still be able to run SWTOR but only at the lowest possible graphics settings, or else it will lag like crazy due to the CPU.

You also need to make optimize your laptop so you can make sure it runs SWTOR the smoothest. Follow my guide above to do that, Steps 1-7 http://www.cleartechinfo.com/forum/computer-gaming/star-wars-the-old-republic-system-requirements/msg5319/#msg5319
For step 2, here are the exact ATI drivers you need for your HD 4570 running on a Vista 64-bit laptop: http://support.amd.com/us/gpudownload/windows/Pages/radeonmob_win7-64.aspx#2

Also follow my advice for running new games like SWTOR on laptops…
– Make sure the laptop is plugged into the A/C power adapter before and during SWTOR gameplay. If it is unplugged the processor will probably be powered down to save batter life. This is bad for gaming and will decrease frame rates (it sometimes makes a compatible laptop fall into the non-compatible category).

– Place the laptop on a flat surface like a table or desk before and during gameplay; preferably in a cool area. The last thing you want to do is play with the laptop on your lap. Laptop overheating might also cause your laptop to power down your CPU, which you do not want to happen.

[yitzhak]

hey i got a dell studio 1 19 im sure its bad but i can play swtor only with really low settings and out 5-15 fps. my RAM is 2gig and my graphics card is GeForce 9200. if i replace the RAM and make 4 gig and replace the graphics card would this fix my problem. help me please i dont want to buy new RAM and graphics card if it doesnt fix it

[Joey]

hey i got a dell studio 1 19 im sure its bad but i can play swtor only with really low settings and out 5-15 fps. my RAM is 2gig and my graphics card is GeForce 9200. if i replace the RAM and make 4 gig and replace the graphics card would this fix my problem. help me please i dont want to buy new RAM and graphics card if it doesnt fix it

Hello. There is a chance you will be able to play SWTOR on the Dell Studio laptop. But I really need to know the exact CPU model it has to know for sure.
Here is how to lookup your exact CPU model within Windows…

1 – RIGHT-click the “Computer” / “My Computer” icon on your Windows desktop. There will be a popup menu

2 – Select “Properties”. There will be a popup Window with a lot of information about your PC
3 – Tell me everything it says about your Processor

[GonzoVI]

Have SWTOR and can mostly run it on the lowest setting lag badly in areas like the fleet and coruscant( basically crowded and city areas, works fine on Tatooine though everywhere) want to know how I can get it to run better without buying a whole new computer what kind of graphics card or whatever to buy having difficulty finding out what cards are compatible and dont know enough to know which would work for me when i found them or if i need to add memory or whatever else btw i can play Aion on pretty good settings no lag at all:
 
Sony Vaio Model PCG-71314L
OS: Windows 7 Home Premium Service Pack 1    64-bit
Processor: Intel(R) Core(TM) i3 CPU M350 @ 2.27 GHz 2.27 GHz
RAM: 4.00GB(3.67GB usuable)
Graphics Card: Intel(R) HD Graphics

[Joey]

Hi GonzoVI. The CPU your laptop has is pretty nice. The RAM is good too. The reason why SWTOR is running slow is because of the Intel HD graphics card. For SWTOR standards it is low-end. I can still make it run SWTOR a little faster though :-) Follow the guide I wrote below.It will help you decrease lag in SWTOR on your Sony laptop :-)

#1 – Fully update Windows 7, then restart your PC and checked if there are any new updates. (Some games require certain Windows Updates to run properly. So be sure to download all updates you see.)
If you need it I created a tutorial on this subject: http://www.cleartechinfo.com/How-To-Update-Windows-7-Microsoft-Windows-Update

#2 – Download the latest Intel HD driver (ZIP file version) for your Windows version here: http://downloadcenter.intel.com/

#3 – Unzip the file you just downloaded and leave it alone. You will get back to this folder in a bit.

#4 – You need to manually Uninstall your current Intel graphics card drivers. This is how to do it…
- Go to your Windows “Computer” icon (or you could just hit the Start button and go to the “Computer” category / link).
- RIGHT-click “Computer” then select “Manage” from the popup
- Follow the instructions in the image below to uninstall the graphics drivers via the Device Manager.
http://i.minus.com/ibaosjJB4PSHwT.png
- If for some reason the computer asks you to restart, Do Not do it!

#5 – Now go back to the Intel driver folder you just unzipped. In there will be a text file named something like “READ ME”. Open that file with Notepad or WordPad. Follow the instructions on how to install the driver (Hint: It is almost the same as uninstalling a driver)

#6 – After you installed the new Intel graphics drivers you must restart your computer so everything will work.

#7 – Download and Install the Free version of “Game Booster”: ttp://www.iobit.com/gamebooster.html
In case you need it I just finished creating a video tutorial on how to install and optimize Game Booster. The video is at the end of the article: http://www.cleartechinfo.com/How-To-Get-Less-Lag-Higher-Frame-Rates-running-PC-Games-Game-Booster

#8 – Make sure the laptop is plugged into the A/C power adapter. If it is unplugged the CPU will slow down. This is bad for gaming and will decrease frame rates (it sometimes makes a compatible laptop fall into the non-compatible category).

#9 – Place the laptop on a flat surface like a table or desk before and during gameplay; preferably in a cool area. The last thing you want to do is play with the laptop on your lap. Laptop overheating may also slow down your CPU, then your game might have horrible lag.

#10 – Run Game Booster, then Run SWTOR (but DO NOT play it yet).

#11 - Go into the graphics settings and set everything to the lowest possible. Copy the settings in this screen shot I took: http://i.minus.com/iKyprc8d4Bucz.png
Save / Apply settings.

#12 – Play SWTOR.

[Ralphy]

Hello. Now, I already know what my problem is (my CPU) but I'll go ahead and give you my specs:

PC: Dell Inspiron 560 desktop
CPU: Pentium(R) Dual-Core CPU E6700 @ 3.20GHz
RAM: 7.0 GB. . . or is it 7.0 GH?
OS: Windows 7 H. Premium 64-bit
Graphics Card : Intel(R) G45/G43 Express
Video Ram: 1.7 GB

So, my question is this: The game WILL run, but the frame rate isn't the smoothest. According to my research, I can only go up to an Intel core 2 quad processor (even though I have no idea what type). Thing is, I don't know how much of an improvement this will be. I know my graphics will still have to be on low, but I just need the loading time and the frame rate to improve, especially when I'm playing in groups.

So, since I can only go a little higher with a CPU, would I be wasting money in getting a processor for the only pc game I plan on playing anyway, or should I just grit my teeth and try to avoid watching my roomie play the game on his smooth Lenevo downstairs? Thanks!

[Joey]

Hi Ralphy. Your Intel E6700 processor isn’t anywhere near the fastest but it definitely is not what is holding you back for Star Wars: The Old Republic. The bottleneck on your PC is the Intel graphics card.
I suggest buying a GeForce GTS 450. They sell them for around $110 on NewEgg and Amazon. This card will make a HUGE difference over the Intel graphics card you have (which is not meant for serious gaming). I am not sure what your budget is but I can suggest even faster cards that can play SWTOR at very high or max graphics settings if you’d like.
The Intel Core 2 Quad processors are big jump in performance compare to the E-series CPUs. E-series CPUs are more “budget” oriented and are not that fast. Intel Core 2 Quad processors are very fast (especially for games), but expensive.
Try to lookup on the Dell website what processors your desktop is compatible with. A fast one is the intel core 2 quad Q9650. Your best bet would be to buy it on eBay.

WHAT I WOULD DO 1st: Buy a graphics card. Install it using the drivers from nVidia (or ATI/AMD if you go that route). Then see how well SWTOR plays. If you want more performance at high graphics settings then you must buy another CPU.

[Ralphy]

Oh? Now, this is a surprise, but a pleasant one. I'm glad to hear that I can upgrade my pc some, because yes, the prices you gave are way beneath the budget I was willing to spend. (Yay!) I think I'll try the graphics card first, as you suggested, and then if I need a bit more of a punch, then I'll look at that processor.

Thank you SO much! I'll have to let you know how it all turns out 

[Joey]

You are welcome 

If you have a bigger budget I suggest buying a GeForce GTX 560. It sells for around $190 on NewEgg. It is more than capable of maxing out SWTOR. But I am not sure how high you can set the graphics settings in SWTOR when you combine it with the CPU you have.

On my system I have a slower graphics card (GTX 460 1 GB) and I can max out SWTOR graphics. But I combined it with a very fast CPU (Intel Core i7-950 3.07 GHz).

[kendalnl]

I am going to be upgrading an older desktop to try and allow a friend to play SWTOR, here are my system specs. (Thanks for the info video explaining how to find these)

NVIDIA GeForce 9100
AMD Athlon II X4 Quad-Core Processor 620
8192 MB Memory
Windows 7

I know it is the Graphics card holding me back. Can you give me some recommendations that would be around the $100-$140 range?

Thanks for your help!

[kendalnl]

Turns out my friend wants to buy the video card, but his price range is under $100...

Sorry for the change.

[Joey]

I am going to be upgrading an older desktop to try and allow a friend to play SWTOR, here are my system specs. (Thanks for the info video explaining how to find these)

NVIDIA GeForce 9100
AMD Athlon II X4 Quad-Core Processor 620
8192 MB Memory
Windows 7

I know it is the Graphics card holding me back. Can you give me some recommendations that would be around the $100-$140 range?

Thanks for your help!

Hello. You are right, the only thing holding you back from having a great SWTOR experience is the graphics card.

Per your 2nd post/request, here are my graphics card recommendations…
Fastest graphics card for $100 from NewEgg and Amazon is the, HIS H675F1GD Radeon HD 6750 1GB. This thing will make SWTOR fly with your setup.

If that is a little too high, you can get the same graphics card that just has slower graphics card memory (“HIS H675FS1G Radeon HD 6750 1GB”). The frame rate will be a little slower but it is still a LOT better than the GeForce 9100. It sells for $10 less.

[Mizone]

hey would a Acer Aspire 5741g run swtor nicely?

system specs are
Cpu 2.27ghz

4gb of ram(3.81gb usable)

Gefore GT320m Cuba 1gb

[Joey]

Hi Mizone. Your Acer will run Star Wars: The Old Republic smoothly at low to medium settings. You did not post the exact processor model. If it is an Intel “Core 2 Duo”, “Core i3”, “Core i5” or “Core i7” it will run well. If it is another model there is a chance it might not run that smooth.

You must do a couple of things before you install the game..

#1 – Fully update Windows. You did not say what version you have but I assume it is Windows 7.

#2 – Install the latest laptop/notebook drivers for the GeForce GT 320M. Download them from the main nVidia site: http://www.nvidia.com/Download/index.aspx?lang=en-us

[Zbeeblebrox]

Hey,

I want to run SW:tor and was wondering what I should do to tweak my system. I can also afford to upgrade a little but I can't really spend more than 150$. Let me know what I can do. Thanks.

AD Phenom(tm) II X4 805 Processor
8.0 GB of Ram
ATI Radeon HD 3200 Graphics
Windows 7

[Joey]

Hey,

I want to run SW:tor and was wondering what I should do to tweak my system. I can also afford to upgrade a little but I can't really spend more than 150$. Let me know what I can do. Thanks.

AD Phenom(tm) II X4 805 Processor
8.0 GB of Ram
ATI Radeon HD 3200 Graphics
Windows 7

You have a fast processor and a lot of RAM for SW:TOR standards. The only thing that is lacking in that setup is the graphics card. Upgrade it to the fastest one you can get under $150 which is the Radeon HD 6850. HIS sells a Radeon HD 6850 for around $140 on NewEgg and Amazon. SWTOR will run super smooth after the graphics card upgrade :-)

[GonzoVI]

Bought June 2010

ASUS Model UL50V
Processor:Genuine Intel(R) CPU U7300 @1.30GHz 1.30GHz
Memory(RAM): 4.00GB
OS: Windows 7 Home Premium OA Asus
Graphics card: Mobile intel(R) 4 Series Express Chipset Family

game runs but its really slow and choppy even at lowest settings and with gamebooster running. What are my options, thx for the help

[Joey]

Bought June 2010

ASUS Model UL50V
Processor:Genuine Intel(R) CPU U7300 @1.30GHz 1.30GHz
Memory(RAM): 4.00GB
OS: Windows 7 Home Premium OA Asus
Graphics card: Mobile intel(R) 4 Series Express Chipset Family

game runs but its really slow and choppy even at lowest settings and with gamebooster running. What are my options, thx for the help

Hello. Thanks for posting your specs. I see the reason for this problem. According to Bioware, the makers of SWTOR the Intel U7300 processor is not compatible due to it being too slow to process the game. Your RAM exceeds the SWTOR minimums and the graphics card meets the minimums so they are not the main problem.

I looked up your laptop on the Asus site. I see they offer 2 different processors for it. You have the fastest one they offer. You can take your PC to a local laptop shop and see if they can upgrade you to something that is compatible, like an Intel Core 2 Duo 2.0 GHz or faster CPU. But that might cost you a few hundred dollars.

The other option is to do what my friend did. He went on ebay and found himself a good, used computer for a cheap price that is SWTOR compatible.

[punkrockfan]

Toshiba Satellite C655
CPU:Intel(R) Core(TM) i3 CPU M 370 @ 2.40GHz
RAM:4.5GB
OS:: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium Edition Service Pack 1 (build 7601), 64-bit
Video Card: Intel(R) HD Graphics

I know i can run it but i want to know how well it will actually run on my laptop

[Joey]

Toshiba Satellite C655
CPU:Intel(R) Core(TM) i3 CPU M 370 @ 2.40GHz
RAM:4.5GB
OS:: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium Edition Service Pack 1 (build 7601), 64-bit
Video Card: Intel(R) HD Graphics

I know i can run it but i want to know how well it will actually run on my laptop

CPU: Intel Core i3-370M 2.40 GHz
RAM:4.5 GB
OS: Windows 7 Home Premium Edition Service Pack 1 (build 7601), 64-bit
Video Card: Intel HD Graphics

Hi punkrockfan. Your CPU and RAM are good for SWTOR standards. But the Intel HD graphics card will not run SWTOR that well (it is compatible though). The laptop will be able to run SWTOR at the lowest possible graphics settings. If you bump everything up to medium or high it will lag like crazy.