Building a high end trading machine, input needed.

I am a professional trader with a moderate level of technical know how. I built my current trading machine 4-5 years ago and despite the fact it continues to work well I am sure technology has marched on and there are 'better', faster components I should be looking at using. I am thinking of spending some down time at Christmas to build a new version. Looking to build a high spec machine and would highly appreciate any thoughts people might have.

So, I wanted to try to get some input from those that understand these things FAR better than I. I come from an era where the only decision was whether to get a 386 or go 'all-out' and get a 486 processor. Looking through newegg I am totally mystified at the range of processors out there. I wouldn't even know where to start.

The machine has the following primary requirements:

1. maximum up-time - The computer is generally running 24 hours a day from Sunday evening through Friday evening. Any down time can be a major issue. I use an APC UPS to clean and support the power feed.

2. Disk Speed. The machine runs a charting platform which receives real time data from MANY charts, up to 80. The data has to be written to disk in such a way as to not slow down the charting or other applications.

3. Monitors. I currently have three monitors although would like to be able to add a 4th if need be. I need a graphics card(s) that are stable. I have had intermittent issues with my current set up (ATI Radeon). Bear in mind I am charting, not p[laying games, don't know how much of an impact this has on solution.

4. Backup. I have a nightly backup that (Norton Ghost) that sends critical files to another PC on my network. Possibly there is something a little more secure...

5. Boot-up. this might be a non-issue but if there is anything I can do to reduce boot-up time it would be good. At present it is at least 2 minutes.

So, I am looking to build this thing from scratch, tower case, motherboard, processor, memory, disks etc. Happy to post progress as it goes together in the event it helps others in a similar boat.

OS, I am open to suggestions. I currently run Windows 7 Ultimate and haven't had issues with it but don't know if Windows 8 is prime time ready yet. If there are aspects that lack somewhat in stability I would prefer to stick with Windows 7 a while longer...

So, what suggestions do you have for a high end, rocket fast, stable machine?

Again, all input appreciated.

Paul