OT: Help buying a new computer

[Captain Kwok]

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

[NullAshton]

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.

[Will]

NullAshton said:
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.

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 )

[parabolize]

- 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?

[Argitoth]

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.

[Renegade 13]

Thanks so much everyone, especially Will. That was exactly the sort of advice I was looking for.

Ok, a question here: With regards to the power supply, what wattage is good? I see power supplies anywhere from 350W to 450W.

Oh yeah, I've decided to take the plunge and build my own. I'm fairly mechanically inclined, so it shouldn't be too bad...

[parabolize]

300W will do for most people. But if you like blacklights, have lots of case fans, have 3 or 4 pci cards, and lots of usb devices you might want more. Make sure the case your getting doesn't already have a power supply.

[Thermodyne]

This should fit your wallet. For a first build it has an esay to config mainboard, with socket 939 and PCI x16 for future upgrades. You will have enough cash left for a CRT, 17s are under $100. Get your software at school, XPpro for 0>40 bucks usually. Office 2003 <$50.

CD/DVD Burners (RW Drives)
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[Renegade 13]

Why make sure the case doesn't come with a power supply?

[parabolize]

So you don't buy 2 power supplies. Nothing wrong with getting a case with a power supply. Sorry I worded that stupid.