How's this build?

[DemonSX]

Motherboard: ABIT KN8 Ultra
CPU: Athlon 64 X2 4200+ Manchester
PSU: Antec Phantom 500W
Memory: CORSAIR ValueSelect 2GB (2x 1GB)
Case: Antec P180
HD: Western Digital Caviar SE 160GB
Video: eVGA GeForce 7800GT
CD: LITE-ON DVD Burner
OS: Windows XP Professional OEM

That's about $1500 total. This is going to be the first computer I've built by myself. I had help with building my current one.

Quick question: I can install the OS onto the HD without installing the drivers for it first right? The thing's OEM so just wondering. Once I install the OS and a modem, I can just go to WDC's main site and download+install the drivers for it, right?

[kosova]

Really nice rig, everything seems compatible, it's a duel core so you'll really see the benefit of multi-tasking. Once you put everything together, turn on the computer (PUT OS CD IN THE CD DRIVER) go to the bios (press F1, or Delete..etc), it will say "press something for more information" something along this line. Look for "Boot Sequence" or Boot Devices" or "BOOT PRiority" and set your CD Driver as the first priority. Exit and save it, now when it boots you will boot in the OS cd, then u have to format your drive, set the OS in it. Then the computer will load up.

Edit:
Sorry forgot, then you can download watever driver you want, for you modem or whatever ya need. The OEM in the OS means that the WIND CD disc doesn't come with the reliable window customer service (that u call) but that's what you have Pcmech for, we'll help if you need it.

[DemonSX]

So I can do things in this order right?

Install HD and other stuff
Turn computer on and install OS
Install modem and download the drivers for the HD
Install the drivers for the HD

[kosova]

Originally Posted by DemonSX So I can do things in this order right? Install HD and other stuff Turn computer on and install OS Install modem and download the drivers for the HD Install the drivers for the HD

THE HDD, doesnt "install", unless uer doing RAI or SCSI. You first have to install the OS. Once u do that, the mouse and keyboard should work right of the bat really, some need drivers, i dont remember ever installing my mouses driver. I don't know about your modem, mine last night i was searching all night for the driver, it turned out i didnt need one.

[DemonSX]

So...does the HD not need drivers to work?

[kosova]

Originally Posted by DemonSX So...does the HD not need drivers to work?

Sorry Demon, where are my manners, WELCOME TO PCMECH. I just noticed your post count. Yes basically, you just put the cable (80 or 40pin if its ATA/IDE) or SATA (2 wires i think). Ya'd only need drivers for a HDD if your setting up RAID, or SCuzzy. Trust me, the drivers will be easy, putting everything together will be kind of hard for you.

[DemonSX]

Well, that's one less thing to worry about.

When it comes to me actually making the computer, I'm only worried about the CPu and heatsink. I tried to look at my current setup to see how it was made, but I couldn't get the heatsink off.

[kosova]

Originally Posted by DemonSX Well, that's one less thing to worry about. When it comes to me actually making the computer, I'm only worried about the CPu and heatsink. I tried to look at my current setup to see how it was made, but I couldn't get the heatsink off.

use a flat head screw driver..u have to push the little metal part down and out of the "hook" here is a video of it
click
that will teach u some about the cpu, i believe that also talks about the heatsink removal and installment..almost every CPU in newegg comes with an INTELLIGENT tab, when u click that it has videos about CPU's or info..uers has some..go check em out

[blue60007]

Be super careful about using a screwdriver. You don't want it to slip and smash into the motherboard.

[DemonSX]

Great. My parents love screwing with me. Now they're saying I'm going to have to wait until February (around the time when Chinese New Year's begins. February is when it usually takes place.)

Soooo...how much new stuff do you think is going to be out/improved by February? Just wondering so I'll know if I have to go through maddening amounts of research to do for new parts again.

[spartan015]

maybe they will release another dual core cpu, most likely a new mobo (from anywhere, hopefully ABIT will have another) and graphic cards... well right now i dont think things can get too much better unless u want to fork over more money...

but yea, prices should drop not too much changes, but they do change often enough... looks like ur ready to get Windows Vista... (end of 2006)

[AMDnewbie2005]

only thing im not sure about is your motherboard, ive heard some bad things about that Abit, why dont you try Asus,Epox or Dfi

[jayb1234]

Intel should have some 975 chipset boards out by february, and possibly thier new processors.

[blue60007]

You could get an idea of what you want now, and then come back in February and adjust it accordingly.