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General discussion

Ideas for buidling your own PC

Jul 27, 2005 5:12AM PDT

I'm not very good at the whole technical side of PCs, but I've bought a book from Barnes & Noble explaining to me how to do it.

My question is, does someone have a configuration of all the parts that would make a good PC for gaming and media use? Thanks. I'm looking to buy all the parts off of newegg.com.

Thanks!

Discussion is locked

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alright....
Jul 27, 2005 5:24AM PDT

do u want a small compact media center pc? if u do get a shuttle case....if not whichever case u like then

amd athlon 64 3000+ or higher
mobo nfoce 4 one
nec dvd burner drive
wd 250gb 7200rpm
power supply- antec, ocz, thermaltake, enermax, etc. at least 450 watts
ram- 1gb pc3200 corsair xms performance
gfx card i would recommend an aiw card from ati
and get a media card reader
oh yah and win. media center 2005

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tv tuner
Jul 29, 2005 3:54AM PDT

You could try the HDTV Wonder by ATI, but I don't know alot about TV tuners. The case: Are you going to upgrade: More CD/DVD drives? More HDs? If so I would go for the full. If your fine with your current rig, then a mid is fine. Also I think that a Full-Tower case would have better cooling. Also the AIW cards by ATI have some TV Tuner capabilites.
-Ibrahim

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Updated: Will this configuration work?
Jul 29, 2005 4:21AM PDT

Alright, thanks for all of your help.

Bottom line, if I set this up with this exact configuration, are all of these parts compatible?

amd athlon 64 3000+ or higher = $379

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1178777&CatId=0

mobo nfoce 4 one


LightScribe DVD Burner = $73

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16827140007

wd 250gb 7200rpm = $140

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16822144391

power supply- antec, ocz, thermaltake, enermax, etc.
at least 450 watts = $160

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1419091&CatId=106

ram- 1gb pc3200 corsair xms performance = $133

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16820145450

ATI All in Wonder =$340
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1009365&CatId=0

win. media center 2005 = $126

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16832102311

Case = $140

http://www.newegg.com/product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16811133143&CMP=OTC-Froogle&ATT=Thermaltake+SHARK+VA7000BWA+Black+Aluminum+ATX+Full+Tower+Computer+Case

------------

Total = $1491


Thanks!

Also, I want a dual-core processor. Would it be smarter of me to just buy a desktop and make all the upgrades myself seeing how expensive Pentium D processors are?

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It all works...
Jul 29, 2005 5:11AM PDT

How come you aren't going for a SATA interface? I'm surprised, as most people despise IDE, but there isn't anything wrong with IDE or Ultra-ATA IMO.

Also, I would note that people have had software problems with Windows Media Center and ATI All-In-Wonder cards. I personally would just buy a TV tuner card and graphics card seperately. Or maybe it's just becuz I don't like ATI, lol. It is also possible to buy just the ATI card and XP Home. Windows Media Center is ''over-hyped'' and has some issues like everything else from Microsoft lol. With the ATI software you will have the same capabilities as Media Center. Plus you will save $$$.

Since you desire dual-core, with your socket 939 MOBO you can eventually upgrade to an AMD Athlon X2 cpu when the prices go down. So building your PC with an AMD Athlon 64 3000+ socket 939 is a good idea. It is a lower-end cpu and you do not need to spend $$$ on a 3500+ when your going to upgrade to dual-core.

Good RAM and PS supply choice Happy

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Thanks for your feed back...
Jul 29, 2005 5:50AM PDT

I'm a newbie to this whole build-it-yourself computer stuff. Just a quick question, what is a SATA and IDE interface? And what are the costs and benefits of a SATA vs. IDE?

Thanks.

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(NT) (NT) And how do I change to a SATA interface?
Jul 29, 2005 6:05AM PDT
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Well actually...
Jul 29, 2005 7:43AM PDT

The nForce 4 Socket 939 MOBOS your looking at, all support a Serial-ATA or SATA interface. That gives you the option of having a SATA Harddrive. SATA refers to how the hardware communicates or is connected to your Motherboard. SATA is supposed to be ''faster'' but its not really significantly. For more info google Serial-ATA or read this article at Tom's Hardware. Serial-ATA harddrives are alittle more expensive than IDE drives.

The Western Digital Caviar SE 300GB 3.5'' IDE Ultra ATA100 Hard Drive you picked out is an Ultra ATA or IDE drive. So you could buy a SATA drive if you make that choice, but the one you picked out would work fine. Your choice!

Also the SATA interface for CD and DVD drives is still IDE but you will find SATA is starting to emerge in some drives. Plextor makes some, they are $$$$.

Hope that helps.

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Ok, here's what I've come up with... Do I need anything else
Jul 30, 2005 10:47AM PDT

Thanks everyone for all of your feedback. It's been very helpful. Do you think I'm getting the best bang for my buck? I'm only looking to spend around $1500 on set up. What do you think I can cheapen up on?

Thanks.

-----------------------

amd athlon 64 3000+ or higher = $379

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1178777&CatId=0

Sony CD / DVD- Rom Drive = 16.50

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16827101129

LightScribe DVD Burner = $73

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16827140007

wd 320gb 7200rpm SATA = $173

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16822144394

power supply- Antec TruePower 2.0 - 550 Watt.
= $110

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16817103933

ram- 1gb pc3200 corsair xms performance = $133

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16820145450

Video Card - SAPPHIRE 100116SR Radeon X800XL 512MB 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express x16 Video Card = $379

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16814102548

TV Tuner - eVGA NVTV Single TV Tuner Card = $65

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1160568&CatId=0

Sound Card - Creative Labs Sound Blaster Audigy 2 ZS PCI Sound Card = $86

win. media center 2005 = $126

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16832102311

Case = $140

http://www.newegg.com/product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16811133143&CMP=OTC-Froogle&ATT=Thermaltake+SHARK+VA7000BWA+Black+Aluminum+ATX+Full+Tower+Computer+Case

------------

Total = $2060

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Looks good...
Jul 30, 2005 12:20PM PDT

First of all, the MOBO you picked out comes with an AMD Athlon 64 3500+. If you plan on upgrading to dual-core in the future, spending the extra on the 3500+ would be a waste, buy the 3000+. Theres a very nice BFG board w/ a 3000+ for $278.99. If you want to buy a bundle.

The Tech Report
Theres a good review on your TV tuner card, looks like you picked the right 1, very nice.

''The eVGA NVTV, which also has low CPU utilization and great image quality, runs only $62 online and comes bundled with the NVDVD decoder, making it perfect for Media Center Edition and thus our Editor's Choice...''

You may also want to buy The Remote for MCE for $38.25

You could say money buy going with a smaller harddrive, lower wattage powersupply, or video card. The ATI Radeon X850XL is a good pick. Although, serious gamers will note that ATI's cards lack some technologies found in nVidia's stuff, it's your choice. Check out Tom's Hardware Graphics Benchmarks for comparisons.

Other little things, you may also want a Ethernet card($20 bucks)for dsl/cable internet or a 56k modem for dial-up. If you want to keep your PC cool buy some extra fans and a CPU cooling fan. You could also get some Neon lights in there lol. Media-card reader?

Overall, you have a nice computer here. Good job. Have fun putting it together.

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price
Aug 5, 2005 3:56PM PDT

I know a guy who can build this system for half the price. I guess that's the price you have to pay for making yourself feel so macho man.

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OUT'A line comment!
Aug 18, 2005 11:51AM PDT

I think if you wanted to make a negative comment here, you did very well! This is a person that is asking advice. Not a nevative comment from somebody that knows somebody else, that can do this or that for 1/2 price!This guy is doing something that most "Macho guys" wouldn't even try on their own! I suggest you find another place to spred your negative responses! If I miss understood what you ment by your remark, then I apologize.If not......

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WOW!
Aug 19, 2005 1:53AM PDT

There's a cheese stick in every croud.

Surely I build my computers just to watch the hair on my knuckles grow.

Forget about the sense of accomplishment, the satisfaction of doing it myself and getting it right. Not to mention all I've learned about computers in the process.

Who lifted the rock to let this pop tart out?

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Just so there's no confusion.
Aug 19, 2005 2:03AM PDT

I was agreeing with 5ron5.

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Dual-Core processors vs. Dual-processor board?
Jul 29, 2005 5:55AM PDT

Are these even in the same category? If so, which is better?

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uhmm ur link is wrong...its still evga 6800gt...
Jul 29, 2005 11:29AM PDT

but if u getting aiw..great cuz i suggested it in my very 1st post
the card is good for gaming and multimedia

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Who's Tigerdirect
Aug 4, 2005 11:19PM PDT

Look forget Tiger Direct, for the best service stick with Newegg, Zip zoomfly and chief value. Do the research by reading reviews on the components. Excellent processor choice with the Asus mobo, What? LightScribe DVD Burner, who cares, you wait half hour for an image and HP drives are crap, get this Liteon drive http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16827106967
Get off the tiger direct kick unless you just like poor service and paying more for it. Why not get your video card from newegg, http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16814130203 you save $8 from tiger direct after mail in rebate and shipping, is it worth the hassle? Check this wishlist out, http://secure.newegg.com/NewVersion/Wishlist/WishShareShow.asp?ID=628301&WishListTitle=
Dual core? Who cares right now, Wait until prices come down in 2 years, you'll want a new system anyway.

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TigerDirect isn't nearly as bad as he says
Aug 5, 2005 3:48AM PDT

TigerDirect does have some prices better than NewEgg, and you should do a little shopping around anyway.

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Ok, so would this thing
Aug 6, 2005 2:41AM PDT

Hi Guys,

I just finished a computer similar to the parts you suggest. I agree with the components, but, your estimated prices are a little high. I completed mine for under $700.00.

Your much better off buying a case with the power supply you want included. My case and a 485 watt power supply at Tiger Direct cost $49.95.
Also, it had a 100% rebate. I know that that is not always available.

I've found from experience that Tiger Direct and New Egg are about the best sources on line. Tiger seems to have the best sales. Also, Computer Geeks are pretty good. You know the old saying: It pays to shop a round.

Goodluck with your build. If you have an older computer, you'll be amazed with the speed.

Jack (bad penny)

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Case
Jul 29, 2005 3:17AM PDT

Do I need a full case?

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Centurion 5 CAC-T05-WW Case
Aug 4, 2005 9:09PM PDT
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(NT) (NT) What is RAID? Is it important?
Jul 30, 2005 12:06PM PDT
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depends on which raid configuration
Jul 30, 2005 12:43PM PDT

some raid makes access faster while other config. is mostly for redundancy

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Final question...
Aug 2, 2005 5:02AM PDT

I've never built a computer together from the ground up, but it seems pretty straight forward after doing some research.

In actuality, is it pretty difficult?

Thanks.

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(NT) (NT) Nope
Aug 2, 2005 8:02AM PDT
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Building your first is both scary and exciting!
Aug 4, 2005 10:26PM PDT

My first build was kind of scary. Whatta Ride! I ended up with some issues that took awhile to figure out. I had a lot of fun getting my TV tuner, firewire card, 3D glasses, and RAID configured. I now know the biggest problem was Windows 98. XP makes all those things easier.

Just remember you can always wipe and reinstall 'til you get it right. It just takes time and patience. Get in a hurry, you're doomed.

On another note, I keep seeing Tiger Direct as a recommendation. Stick with Newegg, you don't want the hassles. Newegg, Zip Zoom Fly, and a new Chief Value will cover your needs with fast service and great prices. They don't rely on rebate lies for profit.

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Your mobo and Processor
Aug 4, 2005 10:35PM PDT

IF you're doing it from scatch its a heck of a lot easier than rebuilding. Make sure to get a cabinet type that will fit the mother board type such as an XT type ,micro ATX or AT ...It was a good thing I had the motherboard book, told me what type and size, I felt I was restricted to that, but the Computer cabinet I have could have taken the largest mobo without a problem - even the different mountings were marked for both mobo types!, but to me this was the key issue - to be able to drop in a motherboard replacement (4 studs and 3 re-uasable plastic support tabs)-that done I was up and running after processor with heatsink and fan, and RAM installation,......NEWEGG is positively great, delivery always on the money thru Fed-Ex, wait for the month end sales - very good deals, you can also read reviews on each product, most customers write about other components they matched stuff up with and how those work , this will give you plenty of ideas of what to buy and what will work together as soon as you plug it in. Beware, some components do not work well together in many cases that have been documented, there have been motherboard chipset issues with Hard Disk drives and bios setups that you can read about on websites such as techreport.com/reviews and techspot.com as well as informit.

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Ideas for buidling your own PC
Aug 5, 2005 1:29AM PDT
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Here's my idea (i'm building it) give it a try
Aug 5, 2005 11:33AM PDT

CPU= AMD Athlon 64 3500+ Venice 1GHz FSB 512KB L2 Cache Socket 939 Processor - Retail Box Model # ADA3500BPBOX.
CASE= TITAN550 550W RETAIL - PSU is required for MB
MB= ASUS A8NSLI deluxe
RAM = 2 GB Kingston (1 gb / Stick)
HDTV=ATI HD all in Wonder (comes with remote)
Graphics=ATI RADN X800XL 256MB 100-43551 (PCI Express)
HD=2 MAXTOR 300GB Serial ATA Ultra 16 (16MB cache) 7200 RPM (Allows for RAID 0/1 (I'm thinking of 2 more for RAID 5) - That's right I'm thinking of having more than 1 TeraByte of disk space at Home!
DVD Burner = AOPEN 16X DVD Dual Layer Write with Nero & WINDVD Software
However I'm thinking about the NEC from New Egg.
OS= Win XP PRO (Thinking about Vista (Longhorn)).


If you already have your own burning software then get Neweggs NEC DVD burner for $45 (or less). It's a bargin!
BTW the MB comes with Norton Anti-Virus packaged in it.
The ATI RADEON X800XL is capable of displaying true HD and comes with HD Cable and is compatible with ATI's Crossfire (ATI's version of SLI (Serial Link Interface)).
The ATI HD All in Wonder allows S-Video/Cable and Antenna Input and acts as a PVR (TIVO without a charge!)
With this MB you need 2 sticks of RAM PC3200 to make it work right (I chose 2 GB Kingston 1GB / Stick)
The ANTEC Case comes with a 550 12V ATX Power Supply (has 24 pins to power PCI Express on Mother Board and it is Required).
This is a Gaming machine, Audio/Video machine and Server (the MotherBoard has 2 Gb LANs)!
New egg is the place to go!

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SCSI anyone?
Aug 6, 2005 6:05AM PDT

Everyone hypes SATA, but even the older wide SCSI I/O technology can be faster. For price and grins, I added Tekram 315U card for $20 (21.99 at zipzoom now)
2 50 to 68 pin converters $5
2 IBM DDYS-T18350 18.3GB Ultra3 Wide 68P 10K $240
NOTE: shop prices any 68 pin wide SCSI 3 by vendors well documented will do PRICES VARY GREATLY.

In XP disk mgr - Partition as 1 and you will be surprised on speed. You gamers will love it.