First Build-- need some suggestions

[Binary]

I've been thinking about building a custom PC for awhile, but need some guiadance in what $400-500 can get me.

I am a computer science major and will mainly use this machine for Programming, Internet and "Office" stuff, I do not do any gaming. I thought this build would also give me some expierence working with some hardware.

I would also like to use linux as my OS (possibly dual boot w/ windows)

I was thinking of using a socket 478 mobo with a celeron D or P4 proccessor. I want my computer to be "fast" but certainly do not want to waste money on performance that I will not be needing.

What are my best options with my budget?

[blue60007]

I'd suggest a LGA775 board and a 6xx CPU (630 possibly?) or a Celeron D with DDR2 533 RAM (cheaper than DDR400).

Antec has good case/power supply bundles to save you a few dollars.

Does this include monitor, keyboard, etc? Or just the tower?

[not important]

I would agree with blue60007 about using the Socket T (775) Motherboard. It will make future upgrading easier.

[Binary]

how does this motherboard look?

http://www.ewiz.com/detail.php?p=MB-P5VD1-X&c=pw

[blue60007]

Bleh - VIA chipset. Those aren't known for quality or stability. There's no need to get a dual AGP/PCI-E board. Get a PCI-E board. One with an Intel Chipset for Intel (a 9xx chipset).