Micro ATX build advice

[kent rogers]

I have just discovered this site and have been trying to learn as much as I can buy reading the suggested threads. I would like to get some help heading in the right direction for this MICRO build.

I will use this computer as a home computer. The usual chores and photo printing etc.......

But I want to build a powerful unit. Lets say maybe I'll become a gamer. I have an air combat game I have played with on my current PC but I don't believe the PC is set up to run it properly and I can't wait to see if I might enjoy gaming if properly set up.

I will reuse my XP home OS (I guess I'm staying with 32BIT), monitor, CD drives, printer, and speakers.

I hope to start the computer soon but may just start picking up parts as I can afford them. I am considering the Thermaltake http://www.tigerdirect.com/applicati...27375&CatId=32.

I will mention here, I like the clear sides on this case so I can add some lighting and whatever.

Modular PSU...............

Where I really need help now is narrowing down the motherboard and CPU options. I would like to use an ASUS but there are so many I feel I will just be guessing to buy one without some advice. (I am looking at AMD based systems)

What about these;

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applicati...17141&CatId=13

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applicati...60042&CatId=13

Would these have gaming potential???

I know there is much to consider with a system but I hope I have given enough info that maybe I can be pointed in the right direction.

I will check back tomorrow evening.

Thanks.........................Kent

[scuderia]

Ok. For us to be able to help you in any amount of detail, we need a few basic things:

- Budget
- Intention (check)
- Specific conditions

To clarify: You want an AMD mATX system to use as a home computer that is capable of gaming. Correct?

As far as motherboards go, I am not experienced in AMD nor mATX, but a preliminary search yielded a couple nice mobos:

GIGABYTE GA-MA78GM-US2H AM2+/AM2 AMD 780G HDMI Micro ATX AMD Motherboard - Retail
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813128379

ASUS M3A78-EM AM2+/AM2 AMD 780G HDMI Micro ATX AMD Motherboard - Retail
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813131324

Khalil can point you in the right direction with AMD. I'd wait on his response, as well as glc's.

As far as cases go, Danger Den acrylic cases are highly regarded but you do pay a small premium:
http://www.dangerden.com/store/produ...9&cat=1&page=1

(The DD Torture Rack will be the foundation of my next build. Hopefully.):
http://www.dangerden.com/store/produ...0&cat=1&page=1

[glc]

I would really advise you to avoid Tiger Direct. If you want a modular PSU, get one of the Corsair HX models.

Khalil has been recommending the Asus M4A78-EM board.

[kent rogers]

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm...................

Thank you both for the input. You have given me enough info to start planning this build. The pure Acrylic case is a bit to transparent for what I'm afraid may show my armature skills. Maybe after some more experience.

All the motherboards looked good to me. I will try to research them a bit, but at least the list is much smaller.

Thanks again and I will be back with more questions when I make some progress.

Kent