Socrates needs a new computer!

[Socrates]

Well, I was thinking of getting a new budget gaming PC this year. I want it to be around $1000, preferably less.

I'm definitely a proficient computer user, but I'm not very familiar with hardware. I decided that I'd like my computer custom built so I knew what was going into it, and after browsing a sites and magazines, I decided on the following parts:

Processor: AMD Athlon 64 X2 4200+ (Socket AM2)
Mobo: MSI K9N SLI Platinum (Socket AM2)
Memory: Kingston HyperX KHX6000D2K2/2G (2GB kit of DDR2)
Graphics: GeForce 7900GT or Radeon X1900 GT
Hard Drive: Seagate Barracuda 7200.10 250GB 7200RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s
Optical Drive: NEC 16X DVD+R DVD Burner Model ND-3550A
Case/Power Supply: Antec Sonata II Black Mid Tower with 450W True Power PSU

I'll probably using the PC for gaming about half the time, but I'll also spend times multi-tasking with multiple programs open, maybe editing things in Photoshop, or doing homework (I'm still in school; only 14 )

I already have a monitor, keyboard, and mouse, so the PC is all I need. Also, it'd be nice to know if I missed anything, or if you guys have a better suggestion for one of the parts. Will I need anything extra to make my computer compatible with our current wireless network (besides a wireless adapter)?

I'm not building this myself, btw; there's a nice local shop around here that builds the CPU for free if you buy the parts from them.

Thanks for reading. =)

[newbuilder14]

Not bad... but have you considered an e6300 + Asus P5B as an alternative? Honestly both AMD and Intel are fine choices.

[AnotherMuggle]

Hi Socrates. First things first. Out of curiosity, why don't you have a crack at building the computer yourself? The reason I ask is because you appear to have a sound enough knowledge of the components as it is and putting them together takes only a little more skill than that.

You said you want to know what's going into the computer, so wouldn't you be interested to know how well it was all going in? Also, you will most likely find that the components and labour from that local shop is going to be a big jump from buying the parts online and doing it yourself.

Your components look good to me! What is the G4 you mention in the CPU...it's not something I've seen before? Also do you plan to use 2 graphics card in SLI mode at any point in the future? If not, that motherboard comes in another version that is not SLI compatible and therefore cheaper.

As far as the Wireless internet goes, all you need is a wireless adapter and a wireless router.

[pam123]

If you are going to use an AM2 motherboard go over to the MSI site and download the manual.
AM2 boards/ AMD X2 processors have been really touchy about memory so you don't buy anything other than the brand(s)/types the manufacturer recommends.
We've seen enough problems that we're recommending the older X2/939 socket boards or the Conroes.
You may not want to go that route, fine, but you read the HQV list in the manual first.

[Socrates]

Originally Posted by newbuilder14 Not bad... but have you considered an e6300 + Asus P5B as an alternative? Honestly both AMD and Intel are fine choices.

The MSI K9N SLI Platinum is cheaper.

Originally Posted by tomkear2006 Hi Socrates. First things first. Out of curiosity, why don't you have a crack at building the computer yourself? The reason I ask is because you appear to have a sound enough knowledge of the components as it is and putting them together takes only a little more skill than that. You said you want to know what's going into the computer, so wouldn't you be interested to know how well it was all going in? Also, you will most likely find that the components and labour from that local shop is going to be a big jump from buying the parts online and doing it yourself. Your components look good to me! What is the G4 you mention in the CPU...it's not something I've seen before? Also do you plan to use 2 graphics card in SLI mode at any point in the future? If not, that motherboard comes in another version that is not SLI compatible and therefore cheaper. As far as the Wireless internet goes, all you need is a wireless adapter and a wireless router.

I think you overestimate my knowledge of computers; I have little time to do it, not to mention I didn't understand half of your post.

Did I type G4? >_> I meant 64. ^^

As for SLI capability... I dunno, I probably won't be adding in a second graphics anytime soon. How much less does the version with no SLI cost?

Thanks to both of you.

[piasabird]

The main thing I dislike about some custom shops is that they like to guide everyone into purchasing the cheaper motherboards so they can make more money or they add the cost of assembly to the cost of the parts. Use caution if you purchase anything from a custom shop.

Look at this forum and see what everyone else is paying and what parts they are using and having a good experience with. With computer parts many times quality is better than price. Low quality parts lead to computers rebooting and possibly windows not installing due to unstable memory, bad motherboards, and flaky Under-Powered power supplies.

The new AM2 motherboards have had some voltage issues. I have seen some complaints on some Asus motherboards not having a high enough of a voltage setting for the faster 800mhz Ram. Sometimes you buy RAM that is not compatible with a motherboard and it will not even boot, but put the same RAM in another motherboard and it is fine.

Many RAM Manufacturers like Crucial or Corsair have databases and websites where you can check the compatability of Specific RAM Part numbers to specific motherboards. Does not take long to check this, but it is a hassle to send parts back or get a refund. You have to call people on the phone and they may change a restocking fee. Some Custom Build sites on the Internet will actually put parts together and test them for you for a fairly minimal fee.

[AnotherMuggle]

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813130049 - Non SLI Version!
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813130048 - SLI Version!

Prehaps you did type 64 rather than G4...sorry my mistake...or did you edit the post?

If you don't have a lot of time to build the computer then prehaps letting a local shop to do it is a better idea. Otherwise you will likely rush the build a risk messing things up.

[piasabird]

If you are going to build at a local shop and you can trust them, then ask what kind of motherboards they use and ask them for an estimate with the parts list with brands and model numbers.

Also tell them if you are willing to pay just a little more for higher quality motherboards etc. Often they have a cheap option and intermediate option and an ultra expensive option. Dont pay for SLI unless you think it is worth it.

[AnotherMuggle]

Originally Posted by piasabird If you are going to build at a local shop and you can trust them, then ask what kind of motherboards they use and ask them for an estimate with the parts list with brands and model numbers. Also tell them if you are willing to pay just a little more for higher quality motherboards etc. Often they have a cheap option and intermediate option and an ultra expensive option. Dont pay for SLI unless you think it is worth it.

I would certainly take that route!

Don't make any commitments till you know what it is going to cost you and what you are going to get for the money.

[Socrates]

Alright, I'll keep all of that in mind and ask my custom shop about the issues you brought up.

[pam123]

Aristotle comes to the fore....