Overclocking

I updated my driver tonight (Nvidia 8800GT) and noticed an application that allowed you to change the settings , and being a numpty about such matters I wondered how effective this is? does it make a great deal of difference? I downloaded the program but before I even attempted to use it thought I would ask for advice as I only play GW and occasional forays onto TF2 and Spore I don't think that I would notice anything but I welcome being shot down in flames

I highly recommend overclocking your graphics card. Its very easy to do with very little risk involved and you will get some added performance for free.

However for the games you play you will already be reaching very high fps on max graphics so the benefits probably wont be seen.

Is there not a danger of over heating?? all settings are near enough in the middle , would I just max them or move them a bit at a time to see effect? I would rather mess around now trying than get a spiffy new pc and melt it lol

move them a bit at a time. suddenly sliding both sliders to max is pretty much out of the question.

Increase clocks at 5mhz intervals and test with a game or benchmark(i trust games more), if you're still stable go and increase 5mhz more untill you start getting lower FPS/artifacting(usually white"snow" pixels on screen) then lower the clocks to their last stable point.

Depending on the brand of the card(eVGA,XFX,BFG) some come with better coolers and heat wont be a problem. If it becomes one stop back by and we'll pick you out a nice Zalman to slap on it.
8800GT's can gain quite a boost with just over clocking

EDIT: There may be a tab to "Detect best clock settings" or something along those lines, their idea of "best" is usually WAY too high.

for what you say that you use your computer for I wouldn't bother with overclocking. There's no need to do it, and while it's generally safe if you don't push it too much and have good cooling, it's an unecessary risk if all you do is play GW right now.

OK thanks for the advice folks