1st timer needs help with home/cad workstation build

[leftcoastlefty]

Old (55) guy attempting to construct a system for typical home use (not much gaming) and 3D modeling software.

I see most are shopping at Newegg, but I plan to buy my components at Microcenter, which is pretty close. So far I've got this:

Intel Corporation Core i7 860 Processor Boxed
http://www.microcenter.com/single_pr...uct_id=0317378

Asus Computer International P7P55D-E LGA 1156 P55 ATX Motherboard
http://www.microcenter.com/single_pr...uct_id=0326254

Corsair XMS 4GB DDR2-1066MHz (PC-8500) CL5 Memory Kit
http://www.microcenter.com/single_pr...uct_id=0314456

PNY Technologies Nvidia Quadro FX 580 512MB PCIe Graphics Card
http://www.microcenter.com/single_pr...uct_id=0310472

Seagate Technology Barracuda 1TB 7,200RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive
http://www.microcenter.com/single_pr...uct_id=0334293

Antec Sonata III Silent ATX Mid Tower with 500W EarthWatts Power Supply
http://www.microcenter.com/single_pr...uct_id=0257459

Microsoft OEM Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit OEM
http://www.microcenter.com/single_pr...uct_id=0318879

D-Link Systems Xtreme N PCIe Desktop Adapter
http://www.microcenter.com/single_pr...uct_id=0255889

Should I get 2 hard drives in RAID? I have not seen much discussion here in the BUILD section, but I have yet to check out the other threads.

Any comments would be greatly appreciated.

[Doom]

I only shop newegg.com because there aren't any places to buy components in Omaha. However, while I live in DC I shopped at Microcenter all the time and was quite happy. If you haven't been in the components section...beware pushy salespeople. I had to fight a couple off to browse in peace...otherwise they can't wait to put things in your basked and shove their commission stickers on everything. Still, a fine place to shop.

[Anomo]

First of all, I will give you the standard response.

Get Western Digital (preferably Caviar Black). They are more reliable and Seagate isn't quit as good.

Other then that, what type of 3D modeling are you going to do? Heavy stuff or just some light home fun?
You might have to get another PSU, seeing that the GPU sucks allot of power, but i'd let the experts take a look at first.

You have chosen a good and highly preferred mobo and ram. Everything seems compatible at first eyesight.

[glc]

That PSU has more than enough power for a FX580. The card itself only draws 40 watts. However, it's not much of a gaming card, the drivers are optimized for workstation use.

That motherboard takes DDR3 ram, that DDR2 you chose will not work.

I'd suggest 2 hard drives, but not in RAID, one for OS and apps and the other for data. You may want to consider a SSD for the OS/apps drive.

Choose your wireless adapter to match your router as closely as possible. If you don't have a D-Link Xtreme N router, that card is essentially a waste.

[leftcoastlefty]

Thanks guys!

Western Digital WD Caviar Black (WD1001FALS) 1TB 7,200RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive
http://www.microcenter.com/single_pr...uct_id=0292091

XMS3 DOMINATOR 4GB DDR3, 1600MHz 2x240 DIMM, Unbuffered, 8-8-8-24 - with DHX - Core I7, Core i5 and Core 2 Corsair Memory XMS3 DOMINATOR 4GB DDR3, 1600MHz 2x240 DIMM, Unbuffered, 8-8-8-24 - with DHX - Core I7, Core i5 and Core 2
http://www.microcenter.com/single_pr...uct_id=0324612

Do these look like good replacements?

I do in fact have the D-link Xtreme Router, thanks.

How many GB will I need in a SSD for the OS?

Thanks again!!

[glc]

For the OS and software, I'd recommend the Crucial SATA III 128gb SSD, but it's about $400.

I wouldn't spend that kind of money on ram - there's really no need for high performance ram. If you go to the Asus site you can download the "QVL" for that motherboard, choose ram that's listed. Unless you will be overclocking, DDR3-1333 CL9 ram is all you really need. I think you can probably save about 50 bucks. If you find listed DDR3-1600 for around the same price, go for it, it won't hurt.

[Anomo]

The first ram is better after what I have understood. I also chose the dominator over the XMS3, but was quickly advised to stick with the XMS3.

But to be clear, I am no expert and this is glc's expertise :P The WD hard drive seems fine (i would get one with 64mb catch, but it's all up to preference).

Since you are building a home computer i doubt you need something as fast as a SSD.

Are you doing heavy duty 3D animation or just fun stuff?

EDIT; glc posted at the same time, prioritize his post over mine

[leftcoastlefty]

I am a CNC programmer (machinist). I use Mastercam, which recommends the same graphics as Solidworks, hence the Quadro card. I'm not sure what constitutes "heavy duty" animation, but backplotting toolpaths with large files in definitely an issue. The files are usually less than 50mb, but I can see them increasing in the future.

The case with 500 Watts is OK?

Thanks again!

[leftcoastlefty]

The hard drive with the 64mb cache is $40 more. Would I notice the difference?

[Anomo]

Originally Posted by leftcoastlefty The hard drive with the 64mb cache is $40 more. Would I notice the difference?

I have to say that is a major price difference. In Norway it is about $5 more then the 32mB. You would have to consult with one of the "veterans" about that.

[glc]

I don't think the difference would be enough to justify another 40 bucks.

[leftcoastlefty]

Thanks guys! Is there any reason to get more than a 500W power supply?

[Slynky]

Waves at leftcoastlefty...

@ 59 and my first build, too, I'd say it's a bit daunting. My fingers are crossed as my parts are arriving now (except for the darned GPU that seems to be in high demand).

[glc]

As I said a few posts back, that video card draws only 40 watts - a 500 watt PSU is more than enough power.

[leftcoastlefty]

Good luck Slynky!

glc- I did see your earlier post, thanks. I'm just a bit nervous as I keep seeing similar systems with 650W or more. When I click on the i7-860 or the Mobo, a prompt comes up "items you may want to go with this" and there is a 650 or 750.

[orbrit]

I run an i5 750 and two HD 5770 GPUs with a Corsair 550W PSU.
With 1 card I idled at 109W and peaked at 179W.
With both cards I idle at 139W and peak at 280W (GPU/CPU stress testing)
I run at 240W when playing games.

All measurements are AC draw at outlet as measured using a Kill-A-Watt meter.
Assuming 80% efficiency I'm actually drawing less than those numbers.

You'll be fine with a 500W PSU.