Planning First Computer; Advice Needed!

[.ro]

Hey, everyone, this is my first time on pcmech and I need some big time advice. I am not too savvy on the difference terminology or really any of this stuff, but I am a big gamer and my current computer isnt't cutting it, so here I am attempting to plan my first rig. First of all, let me tell you what I plan on putting into it, so here goes:

Motherboard: I have NO idea. I heard some motherboards are only compatible with some other things and this is just a very confusing one.

CPU: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16819103547

RAM: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16820145575

Video Card: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814130281

Cooling: Not sure about this either, help would be appreciated

Case: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16811119068

That is what I have found so far. I don't know if these things are compatible with each other or anything. And I really need help picking out a motherboard and a power supply, so any help with that would also be greatly appreciated. I also am desperately trying to figure out what SLI is. Other than that, I just want comments and suggestions about it. Thanks!

Edit: Links fixed, sorry about that!

[blue60007]

Better edit those links - you copied from your first post and copied over the shortned url (the Produc....xxxxx).

Looks pretty good, it all it looks compatible. Only one thing, I would change that to an eVGA card, I've heard better things from them.

I'd recommend an ASUS A8N5X for a motherboard. If you want SLI (ability to run two identical video cards together for increased performance), then an ASUS A8N-SLI would be a good choice. If you go with the SLI board, you will have to get an SLI-Certified power supply. Either way, get something quality from Antec, FSP, Sparkle (to name a few). An Antec TP-II 550 would be a good choice whether you go with SLI or not.

http://www.slizone.com/object/slizon..._powersupplies

No need for extra cooling. The CPU comes with a sufficient cooler and the case should come with fans...Also, dump the sound card - the motherboard comes with decent onboard sound that might even be better than a $30 card.

[.ro]

Thanks alot, appreciated, but I have a question: What is the difference between the eVGA and the one that I posted? One more question: if I use SLI (which if I understood correctly is using two cards at once) can I use the 7900 and something non-identical or must I use two of the exact same 7900's? Asking this because budget is taking a few hits!

[blue60007]

Just the manufacturer. eVGA is nVidia's main producer and I've heard better things about their quality and service than XFX. Also, it looks cheaper than the original and similar clock speeds.

With SLI you do need two identical cards (I *think* you can intermingle different brands). But you don't have to run two cards right off the bat. You could always wait until your funds replenish.