yes..a beter graphics card.. I started with the early adopter version of fpsc, with a geforce 4 mx.. Could'nt use any shaders!! So, I think you should atleast have a Geforce 5200, this is the one I upgraded to..I think I actually had shaders then, but not at the speed of light.. The card that worked the best for me so far, is my geforce 7600..It runs perfectly.. and also, my all new ATI HD2600XT, with DX10 support.. I wanted to try something other than geforce..
And yes, you either print the mannual, or do order a pair of super extremely fast ultra monitor reading glasses, wich will alow you not to get frustrated with not having a manual in your hand.