1st Post, 1st Build

[TheTinMan]

I've been lurking and thinking about what I want for my first build. The most demanding thing I do with my computer is watching streaming video via Netflix view instantly. I also tend to have lots of windows open and tabs open in Firefox. I have a monitor and speakers, though I'll eventually upgrade my 17" CRT for better video.

Right now I have a Dell Dimension 8400 with 1GB RAM and 80GB HDD (spec attached) that I've had since 2004. It's been good to me, but it's getting crowded and slow and I want to give building a try.

Budget is a concern (I'd like to keep it below $350, with a $400 hard cap). For hard drive anything over 200GB is way overkill.

The key is upgradability, with the low budget I'd like the chance to slowly improve the computer as I can afford it.

Thanks in advance, I've been reading and you guys are great.

[jdeb]

Welcome to PCMEch Glad to have you

Your best bet on your budget is to use the dell outlet store. These are high quality systems, some new, some refurbished and they back them up... If you are really set on building your own, we can do it around 400.00 with no monitor, let us know.

all kinds to choose from
http://outlet.us.dell.com/ARBOnlineS...n%20530s&s=dfh

the one on top...
http://outlet.us.dell.com/ARBOnlineS...n%20E520&s=dfh

or any of these amd systems
http://outlet.us.dell.com/ARBOnlineS...n%20531s&s=dfh

in this link I used the filter... 160 gig minimum hd, 2 meg minimum ram... you can dial it down even further...

http://outlet.us.dell.com/ARBOnlineS...=22&l=en&s=dfh

[jdeb]

you could also throw some more memory and a bigger hard drive in your current system for around a 100.00 and that might get you by for a couple of more years... let us know if that appeals to you as well. We can give you the links.

http://support.dell.com/support/edoc....htm#wp1052308

[shadowpr]

Read thsi thread: My first build on a budget

I have a build in there that should meet your needs. Of course, it can be adjusted as well.

[TheTinMan]

Thanks for the advice! I'd rather do a build from the ground up...I know it may cost a little more but I want to get that experience in. This one also may end up being a gift for the girlfriend so upgrading my current system isn't an option (though if I give this one to her I may give myself a gift of an upgrade).

[jdeb]

Originally Posted by TheTinMan Thanks for the advice! I'd rather do a build from the ground up...I know it may cost a little more but I want to get that experience in. This one also may end up being a gift for the girlfriend so upgrading my current system isn't an option (though if I give this one to her I may give myself a gift of an upgrade).

shadows build is solid, there you go... have fun and let us know. thanks for coming aboard