Well 1st of all, I'm in a pool so the luck factor isn't as applicable.

Also, someone please correct me if I'm wrong, but I can't run an ATI card with my tower (I was told it was due to having an Intel i3Pentium Dual-Core Processor). These are the specs:
https://www.asus.com/Desktops/M11AD/#specifications

Glad to know that a converter won't lower the hashrate. I think I'll just use two 1x to 16x PCI-E risers then.

• So, was I misled about being able to run an ATI card in my comp?
• I have a 500watt power supply so if I added a card or two, would I need to upgrade the power supply (the current card already needs 500w)?
• What are some of the most cost-effective ATI cards these days? It seems that there is a point of diminishing returns with cost of the card/hashrate.