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Old 12-20-2006, 01:05 AM   #1
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Media and Gaming, Here what I'm looking at.

To get the best help possible I'm going to tell you all what I'm going to be using the computer for. Then list the componets I'm looking at getting. I would appriciate any feedback.

I'm still a student and am will be using the computer for writing papers, browsing the web for reasearch. I also own a small web based complany and will be looking at posting small videos and lots of pictures, I've got a digital SLR camera and a digital camcorder, so I will be getting into some media editing (software recomendations welcome) I would love to be able to burn DVD's to mail out as well.

On the Gaming end I will be using mostley for Flight Sim games. I big into those. Don't know what the graphics requirments are but I want it to run smooth and fast.

Finally it will be used to link wirelessly with my xbox 360.

Here are the parts I'm considering

APEVIA (ASPIRE) X-CRUISER-BL Blue Steel ATX Mid Tower Computer Case
$69.00

ASUS P5B Deluxe/WiFi-AP Socket T (LGA 775) Intel P965 Express ATX Intel Motherboard - OEM
196.99

XFX PVT71JYHF9 GeForce 7950GT 512MB GDDR3 PCI Express x16 HDCP Video Card
$284.99

FSP Group (Fortron Source) AX450-PN, 12cm FAN, version 2.0, 2 SATA, PCI Express, 450W Power Supply #: AX450-PN
$53.99

Intel Core 2 Duo E6600 Conroe 2.4GHz LGA 775 Processor Model BX80557E6600
$309.00

OCZ Gold 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model OCZ2G8002GK
$201.99

Seagate Barracuda 7200.10 ST3320620AS (Perpendicular Recording Technology) 320GB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive - OEM
$94.99

Microsoft Windows XP Home Sp2b 1pk w/Upgrade Coupon for Vista - OEM
#: N09-02142
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Old 12-20-2006, 07:46 AM   #2
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You forgot a DVD burner. Retail Lite-Ons are the best bet right now. If that motherboard doesn't have a Firewire (1394) adapter you will need a card. You may want to get the Mitsumi combo floppy drive/card reader if you will be offloading a lot of still pics.
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Old 12-20-2006, 01:25 PM   #3
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I believe those are the first revision OCZ golds. They use chips that have serious incompatibility issues with 965. I would choose a safer choice rather then feel sorry later:
2gb Corsair VS
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Old 12-21-2006, 03:41 PM   #4
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Is this over kill for what I am trying to do?
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Old 12-21-2006, 04:48 PM   #5
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Your covering a lot of bases. Your selected parts should handle your needs nicely.
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Old 12-21-2006, 07:46 PM   #6
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Yes, looks like you should have plenty of power for what you want to do. Flight sims hit hard on both the CPU and video pretty hard, and it looks like you've got those covered.
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Old 12-21-2006, 08:33 PM   #7
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Highly suggest against the OCZ RAM as well. Go with what Mr. Ferrari suggested. Everything else looks superb.
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Old 12-22-2006, 02:42 AM   #8
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What's your opinion on the open box produts at newegg. Stear clear, or am I safe with these parts?
I was also thinking about putting in a second hard drive for storing Data and leaving one for just programs? Thoughts?
Is it worth while to get a read only dvd/cd player for video editing, on top of a DVD burner?
I've heard bad things about the Value Select any truth to it?

Last edited by maddawg; 12-22-2006 at 03:13 AM.
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Old 12-22-2006, 08:42 AM   #9
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Quote:
Originally Posted by maddawg
What's your opinion on the open box produts at newegg. Stear clear, or am I safe with these parts?
Those are returned parts...I'd stay clear.
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Originally Posted by maddawg
I was also thinking about putting in a second hard drive for storing Data and leaving one for just programs? Thoughts?
That's a good idea...if the main hard drive goes out you'll still have the other hard drive with your all data on it. Just remember to back up your data since you never know when a hard drive will die.
Quote:
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Is it worth while to get a read only dvd/cd player for video editing, on top of a DVD burner?
If you're going to be doing a lot of disc to disc copying then getting a reader and a burner is a good idea.
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I've heard bad things about the Value Select any truth to it?
Value Select? Do you mean Corsair ValueSelect RAM? Or something else? Corsair ValueSelect is good stuff if you use it in a non-overclocked computer. If you're going to overclock then you'll want premium RAM.

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Old 12-22-2006, 10:14 AM   #10
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Corsair ValueSelect memory is very good for budget/non-overclocked systems. I have used it in 5/7 of the PCs I have built with no issues whatsoever.
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Old 12-22-2006, 10:42 PM   #11
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As long as you're looking at a 7950gt, why not the EVGA version for $200.99 after mail-in rebate? EVGA is a good brand, and that seems like a fantastic price . . .

Of course, the EVGA one is 256mb rather than 512. My impression is that you will only see a real difference if you need very high resolutions (largish LCD monitor, etc.). I think in terms of bang-for-buck, the EVGA is the better choice. Of course, I've never used either of them, so take that for what you will . . .
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Old 12-24-2006, 01:46 PM   #12
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So what if I will want to over clock at some point what would you recommend?
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Old 12-24-2006, 02:03 PM   #13
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Generally, you don't want to OC on a unit that will host web site/do a lot of data crunching/doing A/V work.
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Old 12-25-2006, 10:34 PM   #14
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One last question before I start ordering. The motherboard support DDR2/800 and the value select is only 675, wouldn't I be better off with memory that is the DDR2/800,

Also looking for an opion on these two cards. Just thinking with Asus there will be no compatiblity issues.
XFX PVT71JYHE9 GeForce 7950GT 512MB 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express x16 HDCP ExTreme Edition Video Card - Retail
ASUS EN7950GT/HTDP/512M GeForce 7950GT 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express x16 HDCP Splendid Video Card - Retail

Last edited by maddawg; 12-25-2006 at 10:40 PM.
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Old 12-25-2006, 11:52 PM   #15
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Actually, DDR2-675 is a better match for the CPU then 800. So no worries there.

As for the video cards, I'd pick eVGA first. But of those two, go with Asus.
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Old 12-26-2006, 12:21 AM   #16
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What evga card would you recommend for this system

BTW here is what my wish list is now looking like with an evga I pick out http://secure.newegg.com/NewVersion/...Number=3882312

Last edited by maddawg; 12-26-2006 at 12:36 AM.
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Old 12-26-2006, 01:26 PM   #17
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Alaron
Actually, DDR2-675 is a better match for the CPU then 800. So no worries there.
Was wondering about this. Can you explain why. Sorry for the question I just want to learn.

Is my PSU sufficient of should I step it up?

Also do you all think it's worth it to go for the WIFi PB5 D or should I just stick with the PB5 D for 20 less? Can I still hook up a LAN line util I get set up for wireless?

Thanks to everyon for all the help you've been so far
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Old 12-26-2006, 02:30 PM   #18
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Alaron said that the DDR2-675 memory is a better match for the CPU because it matches the FSB more closer than the DDR2-800 does. He is just trying to save you a few bucks. I think that is what he was trying to do at least. Correctly if I'm wrong, Alaron.
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Old 12-26-2006, 04:11 PM   #19
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The correct matchups for memory and CPUs has to do with the difference between the front side bus of the cpu and the speed of the memory. The rule of thumb with Intel is one step up from the exact match. Anything higher is unnecessary if you are not overclocking.

For Intel chips on the 1066mhz FSB, such as the Core 2 Duos, best match with DDR2-667. Intel's operate on a base FSB of 266mhz that is quad-pumped for an effective 1066mhz. (266x4=1064). So for DDR, which is "Double Data Rate", you have 266x2=533. But remember I mentioned that it can handle one step up. So you go with DD2-667.

I know that is probably as clear as mud, but lately it has become more difficult to explain. In years past, the matching was much simpler.

And as a plug for PCMech, we are currently working on a feature article for the homepage to explain DDR2 and how it all breaks down. Keep an eye out for it in the future.

As for your other questions, the P5B basic has a LAN connection, so you can use a wired connection. And your FSP should work just fine, you may want to bump up to 500w for a bit of headroom.

Last edited by Alaron; 12-26-2006 at 04:14 PM.
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Old 12-26-2006, 04:24 PM   #20
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Thanks so much Alaron, Althoug i didn't understand everything it makes more sense then it did. I see the reasoning.

What do you think of this PSU? Rosewill RP500-2 ATX 2.01 500W Power Supply

Last edited by maddawg; 12-26-2006 at 04:28 PM.
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Old 12-26-2006, 04:59 PM   #21
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That PSU is of very low quality - a person named Chuch4456 chose that to last him 3 months, and it only lasted 2. Your best bet is to get something off of the "Good List" as seen in the General Hardware forum.
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Old 12-27-2006, 05:29 PM   #22
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I'm having trouble picking out a PSU. I'm very confused on what is compatible with my current set up. If anyone has any suggestions on a PUS please tell me. I would like something up near the 600 watt rang.

I downloaded my motherboards manuel and was reading what memory they recommended and didn't see anything about the corsair VS in the charts. Is this going to be a problem. I'm assuming that someone else has used this memory with this board an all went well.
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Old 12-27-2006, 05:56 PM   #23
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Fortron/Enermax/Antec/Silverstone/OCZ are some of the recommened brands. As for the type: look for PCI-E connections/ATX 2.0/ dual 12v with ratings of 25 to 30 Amps or higher/24 pin and 4 pin power connections.
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Old 12-27-2006, 06:10 PM   #24
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Here's another question what is SLI support?

IS this compatible?

Should I eventually go dual crossfire?

Last edited by maddawg; 12-27-2006 at 06:15 PM.
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Old 12-27-2006, 08:36 PM   #25
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SLI support means that your motherboard has 2 PCI-Express slot and can handle 2 Nvidia video cards at once. Crossfire is the ATI equivalent.

I wouldn't worry about either one. The video card you chose is a good one, and a single card is plenty powerful for gaming. SLI really just adds cost, because to do it right, you not only have to buy very powerful video cards, but also a more expensive motherboard and power supply.

I'd stick with the setup you have now, it will be plenty for games.
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Old 12-27-2006, 09:06 PM   #26
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Let's see what power supply you've chosen if you have yet chosen one. I'd recommend a quality 500w+ unit.

Check out the eVGA 7950gt Super Clocked card - looks nice.
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Old 12-28-2006, 12:22 AM   #27
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Final rig start ordering tomorrow

This is acctually the PSU I was looking at here

http://www.newegg.com/product/produc...82E16817103941


And here is the final build. I would appriciate any feedback. Let me know if you all think I should save money one place and put it somewhere else. I figuar I might as well get into the gaming and this rig is expensive enough. Please be as libreal as you like with your feedback

Thanks again for everyone's help

APEVIA X-CRUISER-BK Black Steel ATX Mid Tower Computer Case

ASUS P5B Deluxe/WiFi-AP Socket T (LGA 775) Intel P965 Express ATX Intel Motherboard -

eVGA 512-P2-N637-AR GeForce 7950GT 512MB GDDR3 PCI Express x16 HDCP KO Superclocked Video Card -

Antec NeoPower NeoHE 550 ATX12V 550W Power Supply -

Intel Core 2 Duo E6600 Conroe 2.4GHz LGA 775 Processor Model BX80557E6600

CORSAIR ValueSelect 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 667 (PC2 5300) Desktop Memory Model VS2GBKIT667D2

Seagate Barracuda 7200.10 ST3320620AS (Perpendicular Recording Technology) 320GB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive - OEM

Seagate Barracuda 7200.9 ST3120811AS 120GB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive - OEM

Logitech 967692-0403 Beige & Black USB + PS/2 RF Wireless Ergonomics Desktop Comfort Laser Mouse Included

Niko NIKO-2206 Black 22" 5ms DVI Widescreen LCD Monitor

ASUS Dual Panel Black and Silver ATAPI / E-IDE DVD-ROM Drive Model DVD-E616A3/A6/ B+S/G/ACI/ -

Microsoft Windows XP Home Sp2b 1pk w/Upgrade Coupon for Vista - OEM
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Old 12-28-2006, 08:57 AM   #28
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Looks fine to me. Are you sure you don't want a DVD burner?
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Old 12-28-2006, 03:41 PM   #29
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Ok here we go with the DVD burner


APEVIA X-CRUISER-BK Black Steel ATX Mid Tower Computer Case - Retail
Rebate

ASUS P5B Deluxe/WiFi-AP Socket T (LGA 775) Intel P965 Express ATX Intel Motherboard - Retail

eVGA 512-P2-N637-AR GeForce 7950GT 512MB GDDR3 PCI Express x16 HDCP KO Superclocked Video Card - Retail

Antec NeoPower NeoHE 550 ATX12V 550W Power Supply - Retail

Intel Core 2 Duo E6600 Conroe 2.4GHz LGA 775 Processor Model BX80557E6600 - Retail

CORSAIR ValueSelect 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 667 (PC2 5300) Desktop Memory Model VS2GBKIT667D2 - Retail

Seagate Barracuda 7200.10 ST3320620AS (Perpendicular Recording Technology) 320GB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive - OEM

Seagate Barracuda 7200.9 ST3120811AS 120GB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive - OEM

Logitech 967692-0403 Beige & Black USB + PS/2 RF Wireless Ergonomics Desktop Comfort Laser Mouse Included - Retail

Niko NIKO-2206 Black 22" 5ms DVI Widescreen LCD Monitor - Retail

LITE-ON 20X DVD±R DVD Burner with 12X DVD-RAM write and LightScribe Technology Black E-IDE/ATAPI Model LH-20A1H-185 - OEM

ASUS Dual Panel Black and Silver ATAPI / E-IDE DVD-ROM Drive Model DVD-E616A3/A6/ B+S/G/ACI/ - Retail

Microsoft Windows XP Home Sp2b 1pk w/Upgrade Coupon for Vista - OEM

Last edited by maddawg; 12-28-2006 at 05:22 PM.
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Old 02-10-2007, 04:22 PM   #30
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Well my computer is up a running and all seems to be well. Thanks everyone so much for your help. I think I did make one mistake. I have two hardrives. One I'm just using for data to store movies and such is 320 gb. The other is 120gb that's were I was going to put my programs. I partitioned it into three sections two 10 gb and then a 100 gb. I was wondering seems how I think i messed up should I have just left it as one big drive or is there a way to install programs onto the other partitions?
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