Re: OT: Help buying a new computer
 

If you want to use linux do not buy ATI cards. ATI only recently started build linux drivers and they suck at the moment. ASUS motherboards sometimes don't work in linux but the ASUS A8N-E looks like it works. If you have no intention of using linux just tell me to shut up. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

Re: OT: Help buying a new computer
 

No linux for me!

Re: OT: Help buying a new computer
 

Hows this look for the specs for a new computer:

- AMD Athlon 64 3200+ Processor
- 1 GB RAM
- 3.5" Floppy Drive
- 60-80 GB Hard Drive
- GeForce 6600 128 MB video card
- DVD-RW
- Mouse & Keyboard
- 17" CRT Monitor
- Windows XP Home

Re: OT: Help buying a new computer
 

I'd go for the WinXP Pro if possible. It's only a few bucks more.

Re: OT: Help buying a new computer
 

Go for a faster computer, too. Better to get the processing speed now, while you can. Most people just get a new computer rather than just a new processor.

Re: OT: Help buying a new computer
 

- AMD Athlon 64 3200+ Processor
- 1 GB RAM
- 3.5" Floppy Drive
- 60-80 GB Hard Drive (what model)
- GeForce 6600 128 MB video card (try uping it to GT or save some $ and get a 6200)
- DVD-RW (what model)
- Mouse & Keyboard
- 17" CRT Monitor
- Windows XP Home (eww!)
Whats your motherboard?

Re: OT: Help buying a new computer
 

don't screw yourself over by getting a motherboard *without* pci express x16. get a 939 socket motherboard. by the way, SLI was invented to make people buy more nvidia cards. For the money you'd pay the advantage is outrageously priced.

Re: OT: Help buying a new computer
 

Hard drive: SAMSUNG SPINPOINT P SERIES 80GB SATA2 7200RPM
DVD-RW: NEC ND-3520A DVD+RW 16X8X16 DVD-RW 16X6X16 CDRW 48X24X48 DUAL LAYER+R 4X
Motherboard: ASUS A8N-E MOTHERBOARD ATX S939 NFORCE4 ULTRA DDR PCI-E16 PCI-E4 2PCI-E1 3PCI SATA RAID GBLAN SOUND

Re: OT: Help buying a new computer
 

Ummm... did you see the processor he picked? Sure, the 3200+ isn't the fastest Athlon64 out there (IIRC, it's the 4000+ right now), but that small step up isn't worth the $300 or so more you're gonna pay for it.

For your memory, be sure to get DDR 400 Dual Channel. Your board supports it, might as well use it.

Also, be sure that the video card is a PCI express card. Your board has no AGP slot, and video cards are usually of the AGP variety.

And, finally, you need to get a non-standard powersupply, with a 24-pin mobo power connector. Most come with a 20-pin and a P4 4 pin.

And I would reconsider the XP Home choice. It'll make things easier on you.

Overall, looks like a nice upgradable system. You have the on-board 8-channel sound, so you won't need a seperate sound card unless you want a really, really nice one. 4x SATA will let you set up a good reliable 0+1 RAID in the future (you'll probably want to go full tower for that though http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif )

Re: OT: Help buying a new computer
 

Tell me is this a good CPU? LINK?

Whats the differance between a Athlon 64 3200 939pin RevE CPU and a Athlon 64 3200+ 939pin

Is this a good MB?

Or is this Intel CPU better?

And is this a good price on XP-Pro?

is this a good case or how about this one? What about this one?