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[Gully State]

I've decided to bite the bullet and make the upgrade to a quadcore (specifically Q9550 from an E8400). I still have questions though.

I've got an Asus P5Q pro and the E8400 hasn't been OC'd. When I swap processors, I don't need to do anything on the software end right? (ie- reinstall windows etc. ) I can just seat the processor, boot and everything should just autodetect? Also how much do you think I can fetch for my E8400 and a 4850 with an Accelero cooler attached (separately of course)? Thinking about getting rid of those 2 if the price it right. If not, I might just build an HTPC with those 2 parts..

 

[R2D4]

I've decided to bite the bullet and make the upgrade to a quadcore (specifically Q9550 from an E8400). I still have questions though.

I've got an Asus P5Q pro and the E8400 hasn't been OC'd. When I swap processors, I don't need to do anything on the software end right? (ie- reinstall windows etc. ) I can just seat the processor, boot and everything should just autodetect? Also how much do you think I can fetch for my E8400 and a 4850 with an Accelero cooler attached (separately of course)? Thinking about getting rid of those 2 if the price it right. If not, I might just build an HTPC with those 2 parts..

I have a P5Q Pro and just upgraded from a E8400 @ 3.6ghz to a Q9550 @ 3.4ghz. I just uninstalled the processor in device manager and then turned the computer off. Replaced the processor and turned it on. Been working great ever since. Not sure if you even have to uninstall the processor in device manager.

 

[Gully State]

I have a P5Q Pro and just upgraded from a E8400 @ 3.6ghz to a Q9550 @ 3.4ghz. I just uninstalled the processor in device manager and then turned the computer off. Replaced the processor and turned it on. Been working great ever since. Not sure if you even have to uninstall the processor in device manager.

hmm...I guess I'll find out if it's necessary or not..

 

[anonymousAversa]

Which ATi cards don't have HDMI out? I thought that was basically included in every last card these days.

If you get a 5000 series card you'll get DTS-HD / Dolby True-HD over the HDMI pass-through.

Edit: Found this:

Awesome, thanks!!
--------------------------------------------

Also, a repost for new page

Hey guys- been in this thread for a while and have been saving those pennies.

Finally just got that promotion I've been waiting for!! Will now have the cash to get a new desktop, and I'm pumped, it's been years.

Here's a list of my dream PC. Please note that I'm not sure if it's possible to do with my budget (around $1500) but that's why I'm here!

What I Want:

-i7 proc or amd equivalent
-triple channel ram - 6gb minimum (12gb if possible )
-HDMI out on the GPU (not DVI->HDMI converter, actual HDMI with sound out for a reciever)
-1tb hd (no ssd needed right now)
-dvd burner (no blu ray needed now)
-USB 3 if possible on mobo, if not, add on card


What I Have:
-Win7 64bit
-Keyboard
-Mouse
-Speakers
-Monitor - 22" 1680x1050 and will also be using it on my 1080p Plasma sometimes.

Budget: Not concrete yet, aiming for $1500

Uses:
-Gaming - CRYSIS max settings (yeah, i know)
-HD Video Editing

Other:
-Overclocking is not something I'm hoping to do, but if it's a requirement to get everything under budget, I'm okay with that. Not sure if that will affect things because of the added cost of cooling, etc.

-I would like something 3D capable but don't know if the ATi cards provide a solution yet? I know that i will eventually need a 3D display, that will come later.

-Don't mind assembling myself but if there is an option to have it partially assembled for something like $50, that would be worth it to me.


Thank you, Gaf, in advance!!

 

[Odious Tea]

Hey guys- been in this thread for a while and have been saving those pennies.

Finally just got that promotion I've been waiting for!! Will now have the cash to get a new desktop, and I'm pumped, it's been years.

Here's a list of my dream PC. Please note that I'm not sure if it's possible to do with my budget (around $1500) but that's why I'm here!

What I Want:

-i7 proc or amd equivalent
-triple channel ram - 6gb minimum (12gb if possible )
-HDMI out on the GPU (not DVI->HDMI converter, actual HDMI with sound out for a reciever)
-1tb hd (no ssd needed right now)
-dvd burner (no blu ray needed now)
-USB 3 if possible on mobo, if not, add on card


What I Have:
-Win7 64bit
-Keyboard
-Mouse
-Speakers
-Monitor - 22" 1680x1050 and will also be using it on my 1080p Plasma sometimes.

Budget: Not concrete yet, aiming for $1500

Uses:
-Gaming - CRYSIS max settings (yeah, i know)
-HD Video Editing

Other:
-Overclocking is not something I'm hoping to do, but if it's a requirement to get everything under budget, I'm okay with that. Not sure if that will affect things because of the added cost of cooling, etc.

-I would like something 3D capable but don't know if the ATi cards provide a solution yet? I know that i will eventually need a 3D display, that will come later.

-Don't mind assembling myself but if there is an option to have it partially assembled for something like $50, that would be worth it to me.


Thank you, Gaf, in advance!!

First of all, congratulations! Now, on to the components:

CPU - Intel Core i7 920
Motherboard - ASUS P6X58D Premium
RAM - OCZ Gold 3x2GB. You can add a second if you'd like, but we'd end up over-budget and 6GB is PLENTY. Also, mail-in-rebate, get!
GPU - ATI 5850/ATI 5870. Reasonably priced ones of each were both were out of stock at Newegg atm, so we'll be adding $300-$400 to our final price.
PSU - Corsair 650W
HDD - Samsung Spinpoint 1TB
DVD - LiteOn DVD Burner
Case - This is super subjective, but I have a CM 690 II Advanced and I can't reccomend it enough. But I encourage you to shop around and see what you like.

Final price (minus GPU): $1,083.93
Final price (minus GPU+MIR): $1033.93
Final final price: ~$1400-$1500.

If you want to overclock your i7, you're also gonna want to consider an aftermarket heatsink. And if you REALLY want 3D at a decent performance/price ratio, I think you're gonna have to wait until Fermi. Which all indications point to it being underpowered/overpriced/limited in availability.

 

[brain_stew]

Might as well get an i7-930, its only like $5 more or something.

 

[Odious Tea]

Stew with the save!

 

[R2D4]

hmm...I guess I'll find out if it's necessary or not..

Or just do it. It takes 5 seconds.

 

[fatty]

Also, if you have a Microcenter nearby, get the i7-930 from there. It's only $230 + tax for in store pick-up:

http://microcenter.com/single_product_results.phtml?product_id=0331303

 

[anonymousAversa]

First of all, congratulations! Now, on to the components:

CPU - Intel Core i7 920
Motherboard - ASUS P6X58D Premium
RAM - OCZ Gold 3x2GB. You can add a second if you'd like, but we'd end up over-budget and 6GB is PLENTY. Also, mail-in-rebate, get!
GPU - ATI 5850/ATI 5870. Reasonably priced ones of each were both were out of stock at Newegg atm, so we'll be adding $300-$400 to our final price.
PSU - Corsair 650W
HDD - Samsung Spinpoint 1TB
DVD - LiteOn DVD Burner
Case - This is super subjective, but I have a CM 690 II Advanced and I can't reccomend it enough. But I encourage you to shop around and see what you like.

Final price (minus GPU): $1,083.93
Final price (minus GPU+MIR): $1033.93
Final final price: ~$1400-$1500.

If you want to overclock your i7, you're also gonna want to consider an aftermarket heatsink. And if you REALLY want 3D at a decent performance/price ratio, I think you're gonna have to wait until Fermi. Which all indications point to it being underpowered/overpriced/limited in availability.

You are amazing Odious. A thousand thanks! Will keep everyone updated!

 

[MoFuzz]

I have a P5Q Pro and just upgraded from a E8400 @ 3.6ghz to a Q9550 @ 3.4ghz.

I've decided to bite the bullet and make the upgrade to a quadcore (specifically Q9550 from an E8400)

Where are you guys getting the CPU from? Is there some kinda sale going on? I was looking to make the same upgrade, but it's running around $270 at all the retailers I'm seeing in North America.

A ridiculous price, considering the cost of an i5 750.

 

[Odious Tea]

You are amazing Odious. A thousand thanks! Will keep everyone updated!

No worries, man. Also, if you don't have a Microcenter near you and want to save some more there's this combo for the same motherboard/processor that I originally reccomended. Saves $25. Not a lot, but every little bit helps. Brings initial price before GPU to $1058.93. Then another $50 in MIR.

I definitely encourage you to shop around for prices and combos before finalizing your order.

 

[dark10x]

Might as well get an i7-930, its only like $5 more or something.

I'm rolling up to Microcenter this weekend to get a 930. I can't believe they are selling it for $229!! That seems like an insanely low price for that CPU.

 

[anonymousAversa]

No worries, man. Also, if you don't have a Microcenter near you and want to save some more there's this combo for the same motherboard/processor that I originally reccomended. Saves $25. Not a lot, but every little bit helps. Brings initial price before GPU to $1058.93. Then another $50 in MIR.

I definitely encourage you to shop around for prices and combos before finalizing your order.

Yeah, I'm definitely going to shop around to get the lowest prices, glad I have your recommendations as a great starting point. I work right near MIT and we have a Microcenter nearby. I'm psyched!

I've been using laptops for the last 6 years

edit: so how do you think this setup will run Crysis @ 1680x1050 Max Settings 4xAA? Let's assume I go with a 5870

 

[brain_stew]

I'm rolling up to Microcenter this weekend to get a 930. I can't believe they are selling it for $229!! That seems like an insanely low price for that CPU.

Its a heck of a deal considering it only just released like a week ago!

It makes no sense that they're selling it at that price really, so jump on it while you can. Its a beast of a CPU.

 

[anonymousAversa]

Its a heck of a deal considering it only just released like a week ago!

It makes no sense that they're selling it at that price really, so jump on it while you can. Its a beast of a CPU.

Yeah definitely - esp since the 920 is $288 at this link with a combo deal!!

Will definitely be looking for a 930. Thats compatible with this Asus mobo as well right?

Interestingly enough, the Asus is $309 on newegg and $369 at Microcenter

so it looks like combo'ing wont be the best bet since:

Micocenter: i7 930 for $229
Newegg: ASUS P6X58D for $309 ($369 at Microcenter)

Total is

$538 with a 930 bought separately
$573 with a 920 from the combo link above!

Right?

 

[brain_stew]

Yeah definitely - esp since the 920 is $288 at this link with a combo deal!!

Will definitely be looking for a 930. Thats compatible with this Asus mobo as well right?

Interestingly enough, the Asus is $309 on newegg and $369 at Microcenter

so it looks like combo'ing wont be the best bet since:

Micocenter: i7 930 for $229
Newegg: ASUS P6X58D for $309 ($369 at Microcenter)

Total is

$538 with a 930 bought separately
$573 with a 920 from the combo link above!

Right?

There's no reason to go with that motherboard specifically. Most of its features will be wasted if your not into extreme OCs. A $200-$250 from Gigabyte will probably serve you just as well.

 

[Gully State]

Where are you guys getting the CPU from? Is there some kinda sale going on? I was looking to make the same upgrade, but it's running around $270 at all the retailers I'm seeing in North America.

A ridiculous price, considering the cost of an i5 750.

If there's a Microcenter near you, it's $200 right now for in store pickup (no delivery) and it was $180 last week.

 

[Odious Tea]

There's no reason to go with that motherboard specifically. Most of its features will be wasted if your not into extreme OCs. A $200-$250 from Gigabyte will probably serve you just as well.

Absolutely. But, I went with the Asus so that it's there if he ever decides he wants it. I'd rather spend an extra $50, rather than skimp and regret it later. But definitely cut corners where you're okay doing so. $20 here, $50 there really add up. Just make sure it's worth it.

 

[dorkimoe]

the laptop power cord broke on my dell laptop finally

im thinking about buying this

http://www.meijer.com/s/hp-mini-210...drive-netbook-pc-w-windows-7-black/_/R-145457

for a bday gift. I just want it for internet browsing/youtube while im playing xbox

is 1gb even enough to run windows 7 smoothly? i dont want something thats gonna chug

 

[Fitz]

the laptop power cord broke on my dell laptop finally

im thinking about buying this

http://www.meijer.com/s/hp-mini-210...drive-netbook-pc-w-windows-7-black/_/R-145457

for a bday gift. I just want it for internet browsing/youtube while im playing xbox

is 1gb even enough to run windows 7 smoothly? i dont want something thats gonna chug

It *should* be enough for 32 bit in theory, but these days I wouldn't want any system with less than 2GB of RAM really.

 

[anonymousAversa]

Absolutely. But, I went with the Asus so that it's there if he ever decides he wants it. I'd rather spend an extra $50, rather than skimp and regret it later. But definitely cut corners where you're okay doing so. $20 here, $50 there really add up. Just make sure it's worth it.

Yeah and USB 3.0 is clutch

 

[Minsc]

Yeah and USB 3.0 is clutch

After my Asus RoG I am not getting another asus, and I've seen others echo the sentiment. I'm sure yours will be fine, but my advice to you is to make sure you get RAM that is specifically listed from your specific motherboard's list of compatible, verified RAM. There's lots of things I like about my motherboard, but installing RAM was not one of them.

 

[SuperAwesome]

Its a heck of a deal considering it only just released like a week ago!

It makes no sense that they're selling it at that price really, so jump on it while you can. Its a beast of a CPU.

They do it because they hope the people that come in to buy the CPUs will buy their overpriced cases and ram.

 

[Stormtrooper30]

Edit: Stormtrooper30 up your budget to $600, your money will go a lot further that way.

That's pretty do-able. The $500 dollar initial budget was just a rough number. I just need something that will run modern RTS games at great settings and not slow down. SUPCOM 2 and Napoleon: Total War on high settings is what I'm shooting for. Also want to be able to play The Old Republic when it comes out.
I don't know too much about putting computers together and definately don't want to spend a lot of money and then screw it up during instalation.

 

[Q8D3vil]

am searching for ati 5970 for a price between 600-700 $

i have dx 11 but i want to play metro 2033 in dx 11

 

[lachesis]

Lian-li's PC-Q08...

http://www.lian-li.com/v2/en/produc...ex=480&cl_index=1&sc_index=25&ss_index=63&g=d

Mini ITX, Full sized ATX PSU, 6 HDD bay, 300mm (about 12inch) GPU slot avail, 140mm front fan, 120mm top fan, usb 3.0 connection, etc....

Upon reading about this, I ordered a 750 modular PSU for my main cpu, so that I'll be able to use the current 520W modular for this baby.

Thing is.. it's not out yet! I've been searching everywhere, and I couldn't find any place that would mention when it will be ready. (Supposedly it was to be launched last December, but some are speculating in June... )

Looks like my HTPC project is abrupted for a few months for this reason... I was originally thinking about going with Sugo05 or 06 - but I really wanted to use a internal 5.25 inch ODD, maybe a Bluray combo drive or whatnot... as I have not had good experiences with overpriced slimline ODDs in the past.

Well, I guess I could live without HTPC for a few months, though. Maybe then there'll be some H55 Mini ITX boards with USB 3.0 connectivity released by then, I hope...

 

[mello]

Okay I've decided that I need to get into PC gaming. I haven't done this before so I'll need some of you kind duders to hold my hand. I have a budget of £600 - £700. Looking to start from scratch. No mouse, no keyboard; that level of scratch. Looking for a 1920 x 1080 res monitor. It should also be capable of running Mass Effect 2, and keep me going for at least 3 years without upgrades. Not sure if I'm asking for alot, but any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

Edit:

Budget: £600 - £700
Main Use: Gaming
Monitor Resolution: 1920x1080
Games I must play: Mass Effect 2, Alpha Protocol, Final Fantasy XIV, Brink

 

[GHG]

Okay I've decided that I need to get into PC gaming. I haven't done this before so I'll need some of you kind duders to hold my hand. I have a budget of £600 - £700. Looking to start from scratch. No mouse, no keyboard; that level of scratch. Looking for a 1920 x 1080 res monitor. It should also be capable of running Mass Effect 2, and keep me going for at least 3 years without upgrades. Not sure if I'm asking for alot, but any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

Edit:

Budget: £600 - £700
Main Use: Gaming
Monitor Resolution: 1920x1080
Games I must play: Mass Effect 2, Alpha Protocol, Final Fantasy XIV, Brink

Just spec'd up something on Scan:

Total (inc shipping): £652.51

Case: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Cool...w-o-PSU-(New-Improved-Version)-Scan-Exclusive
PSU: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/650W...rgy-efficient-quiet-and-cool-fully-compatible
Motherboard: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Giga...20-DDR3-1800-USB-30-SATA-3Gb-s-SATA-RAID-mATX
CPU: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/AMD-...-S-AM3-30GHz-15MB-Cache-HT-4000MHz-95W-Retail
Ram: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/4GB-...6-(1333)-Non-ECC-Unbuffered-CAS-9-9-9-24-150V
DVD drive: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Sony-AD-5240S-0B-24x-DVDR-12xDVDDL-DVDRW-x8-RWx6-SATA-Black
HDD: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/500G...HD502HJ-SATA-3Gb-s-7200rpm-16Mb-Cache-8ms-OEM
GPU: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/1GB-...z-GDDR5-GPU-850MHz-Cores-800-2x-DL-DVI-I-HDMI
Monitor: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/22-L...-Monitor-2-ms-1920x1080-500001-D-Sub-DVI-HDCP
Mouse + Keyboard: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Micr...e-Pack-20-USB-Port-English-Keyboard-and-Mouse

If your expecting bleeding edge it wont last you the next 3 years, especially at that res. But with a mid range GPU upgrade in a couple of years it should keep you going comfortably.

 

[mello]

Just spec'd up something on Scan:

Total (inc shipping): £652.51

Case: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Cool...w-o-PSU-(New-Improved-Version)-Scan-Exclusive
PSU: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/650W...rgy-efficient-quiet-and-cool-fully-compatible
Motherboard: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Giga...20-DDR3-1800-USB-30-SATA-3Gb-s-SATA-RAID-mATX
CPU: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/AMD-...-S-AM3-30GHz-15MB-Cache-HT-4000MHz-95W-Retail
Ram: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/4GB-...6-(1333)-Non-ECC-Unbuffered-CAS-9-9-9-24-150V
DVD drive: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Sony-AD-5240S-0B-24x-DVDR-12xDVDDL-DVDRW-x8-RWx6-SATA-Black
HDD: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/500G...HD502HJ-SATA-3Gb-s-7200rpm-16Mb-Cache-8ms-OEM
GPU: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/1GB-...z-GDDR5-GPU-850MHz-Cores-800-2x-DL-DVI-I-HDMI
Monitor: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/22-L...-Monitor-2-ms-1920x1080-500001-D-Sub-DVI-HDCP
Mouse + Keyboard: http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Micr...e-Pack-20-USB-Port-English-Keyboard-and-Mouse

If your expecting bleeding edge it wont last you the next 3 years, especially at that res. But with a mid range GPU upgrade in a couple of years it should keep you going comfortably.

This is just the set up I was looking for. Although I was considering this case, would it all fit into this instead? Also just to double check the Athlon II X3 CPU doesn't require you to purchase a heatsink and fan for it as it already comes with one right? Thanks alot for this help and links.

 

[Emonk]

So here's what I'm looking at initially:

CPU: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115215
Mobo:http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813121396
GFX:http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814143183

I'll throw in a 1TB HDD and start with 4GB of RAM for this box. Is it worth spending more for a motherboard? The one I've got here seems to have good ratings, and I have no intention of overclocking.

I don't want to spend more than $300 on a graphics card, and I picked that one out by looking at the $200-300 range on newegg and choosing the one with a high average rating with a decent number of customers who rated it. I'm willing to spend a little extra for a better card, so I'm open to suggestions.

Looking to play Dragon Age, Mass Effect 2, Starcraft 2, Civilization V. My monitor's resolution is 1680 x 1050 and I'm not looking to get a new one.

 

[Odious Tea]

So here's what I'm looking at initially:

CPU: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115215
Mobo:http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813121396
GFX:http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814143183

I'll throw in a 1TB HDD and start with 4GB of RAM for this box. Is it worth spending more for a motherboard? The one I've got here seems to have good ratings, and I have no intention of overclocking.

I don't want to spend more than $300 on a graphics card, and I picked that one out by looking at the $200-300 range on newegg and choosing the one with a high average rating with a decent number of customers who rated it. I'm willing to spend a little extra for a better card, so I'm open to suggestions.

Looking to play Dragon Age, Mass Effect 2, Starcraft 2, Civilization V. My monitor's resolution is 1680 x 1050 and I'm not looking to get a new one.

May as well wait for Fermi or get a 5850 (or better). I recommend the latter, but encourage you to do your own research.

 

[NorrenRadd]

Any reason NOT to get the Frys AMD xII 630 deal and this MSI micro ATX motherboard for my budget build?

Planning to put this in a standard ATX case that I have already.

 

[Firestorm]

So here's what I'm looking at initially:

CPU: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115215
Mobo:http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813121396
GFX:http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814143183

I'll throw in a 1TB HDD and start with 4GB of RAM for this box. Is it worth spending more for a motherboard? The one I've got here seems to have good ratings, and I have no intention of overclocking.

I don't want to spend more than $300 on a graphics card, and I picked that one out by looking at the $200-300 range on newegg and choosing the one with a high average rating with a decent number of customers who rated it. I'm willing to spend a little extra for a better card, so I'm open to suggestions.

Looking to play Dragon Age, Mass Effect 2, Starcraft 2, Civilization V. My monitor's resolution is 1680 x 1050 and I'm not looking to get a new one.

Don't get a GTX 275 unless you're building a Hackintosh. Look at the 5850 instead: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814125300&cm_re=5850-_-14-125-300-_-Product

Or if $300 is a strict limit, the 4890: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814150438&cm_re=4890-_-14-150-438-_-Product

For motherboard, I'd look at a Gigabyte or Asus board.

 

[brain_stew]

the laptop power cord broke on my dell laptop finally

im thinking about buying this

http://www.meijer.com/s/hp-mini-210...drive-netbook-pc-w-windows-7-black/_/R-145457

for a bday gift. I just want it for internet browsing/youtube while im playing xbox

is 1gb even enough to run windows 7 smoothly? i dont want something thats gonna chug

Its a netbook. It won't run anything smoothly. Do yourself a favour and get something with a CULV processor instead, they're around 4-5x as fast as single core Atom's which are really no good for anything as far as I'm concerned.

 

[brain_stew]

So here's what I'm looking at initially:

CPU: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115215
Mobo:http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813121396
GFX:http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814143183

I'll throw in a 1TB HDD and start with 4GB of RAM for this box. Is it worth spending more for a motherboard? The one I've got here seems to have good ratings, and I have no intention of overclocking.

I don't want to spend more than $300 on a graphics card, and I picked that one out by looking at the $200-300 range on newegg and choosing the one with a high average rating with a decent number of customers who rated it. I'm willing to spend a little extra for a better card, so I'm open to suggestions.

Looking to play Dragon Age, Mass Effect 2, Starcraft 2, Civilization V. My monitor's resolution is 1680 x 1050 and I'm not looking to get a new one.

Don't get an Intel motherboard (they're as barebones and basic as they come) and don't buy a GTX 275, its way overpriced.

 

[brain_stew]

Any reason NOT to get the Frys AMD xII 630 deal and this MSI micro ATX motherboard for my budget build?

Planning to put this in a standard ATX case that I have already.

That's a pretty nice little motherboard actually. If you're happy with fewer expansion slots (most will be) then go right ahead.

 

[brain_stew]

This is just the set up I was looking for. Although I was considering this case, would it all fit into this instead? Also just to double check the Athlon II X3 CPU doesn't require you to purchase a heatsink and fan for it as it already comes with one right? Thanks alot for this help and links.

Don't get an X3, spend the few extra pennies for the Athlon X4 630, and yes, it comes with a hsf.

You might be able to spec things up for less at novatech.co.uk or ebuyer.com and I'd say that PSU is ridiculous overkill. You're never going to need more than a decent 500w unit for a single GPU rig. Save some cash there so that you can afford the quad and maybe a nicer monitor.


Edit:

Get this GPU:

http://overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=BG-046-PC

No DX11, sure but its a good 25% faster, you'll notice the difference at 1080p.

 

[NorrenRadd]

That's a pretty nice little motherboard actually. If you're happy with fewer expansion slots (most will be) then go right ahead.

Am I going to have alignment problems popping it into a standard ATX tower and fitting it with a 5770?

I think I need to buy a cpu cooler @ Fry's as well. I might have read that their combos sometimes dont come with a heatsink.

 

[brain_stew]

Am I going to have alignment problems popping it into a standard ATX tower and fitting it with a 5770?

I think I need to buy a cpu cooler @ Fry's as well. I might have read that their combos sometimes dont come with a heatsink.

No any ATX case will fit a M-ATX board just fine, its a none issue.

 

[brain_stew]

Okay I've decided that I need to get into PC gaming. I haven't done this before so I'll need some of you kind duders to hold my hand. I have a budget of £600 - £700. Looking to start from scratch. No mouse, no keyboard; that level of scratch. Looking for a 1920 x 1080 res monitor. It should also be capable of running Mass Effect 2, and keep me going for at least 3 years without upgrades. Not sure if I'm asking for alot, but any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

Edit:

Budget: £600 - £700
Main Use: Gaming
Monitor Resolution: 1920x1080
Games I must play: Mass Effect 2, Alpha Protocol, Final Fantasy XIV, Brink

Just had a proper attempt. Its much better than the previous effort imo, pretty much everything has improved but we're still comfortably under budget:

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/167439

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/165288

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/173804

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/178943

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/176026

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/190673

http://overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=BG-046-PC


I'll leave kb + mouse upto you, I haven't included an OS as I don't know where you stand there and many have access to free/cheap copies of Windows anyway.

Lian li M-ITX sex.

Oh wow, that thing looks the business all right. It ticks pretty much every box. If I was starting from scratch again, I'd be giving that thing some serious consideration, it looks damn near perfect. You could fit a real powerhouse rig in there, even a 5850 + i5-750 is doable! Fuuuuuuuu!!

 

[GHG]

Just had a proper attempt. Its much better than the previous effort imo, pretty much everything has improved but we're still comfortably under budget:

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/167439

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/165288

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/173804

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/178943

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/176026

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/190673

http://overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=BG-046-PC


I'll leave kb + mouse upto you, I haven't included an OS as I don't know where you stand there and many have access to free/cheap copies of Windows anyway.

He said he wants to try and keep the rig for 3 years, surely him getting a DX10 card wouldn't really make sense? I mean I'd think it'll be within the next 12 months we'll see some DX11 only games start rolling out.

Oh and its much cheaper because you forgot the motherboard . That PSU isn't too great TBH either. Only a single native PCI-E connector would suggest its actually much under 500W in real world application.

If buying from Ebuyer I'd suggest this motherboard http://www.ebuyer.com/product/191059 and this processor http://www.ebuyer.com/product/167111

That'll then leave you with around £110 to get a GPU and stay within budget if ignoring keyboard and speakers (you can get them from somewhere like Argos on the cheap anyway). That means. a 5750 http://www.ebuyer.com/product/179681 for around £90 to stay under budget or a 5770 http://www.ebuyer.com/product/191864 for around £125 and going slightly over if you'd rather go the DX11 route. I'd definately suggest the 5770 over the 5750.

 

[R2D4]

Where are you guys getting the CPU from? Is there some kinda sale going on? I was looking to make the same upgrade, but it's running around $270 at all the retailers I'm seeing in North America.

A ridiculous price, considering the cost of an i5 750.

But then you have to buy a new motherboard and new ram.


I got my Q9550 on ebay for $180.

 

[brain_stew]

He said he wants to try and keep the rig for 3 years, surely him getting a DX10 card wouldn't really make sense? I mean I'd think it'll be within the next 12 months we'll see some DX11 only games start rolling out.

DX11 games will work just fine on a DX10.1 card, you just won't be able to enable the extra effects that the 5770 probably won't be able to manage at 1080p anyway. If he was playing at a lower resolution, the 5770 may have been a better fit but at 1080p a factory OCed 4890 is just so much faster that it can't be ignored. Its a total different category of performance, the 5770 can't match up to a 4870 and the 4890 comfortably beats out a 4870 and then this card is factory OCed on top of that.

As for the motherboard, oops, seems I didn't copy paste the link:

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/165438

Its actually a really good motherboard despite the price. A better option than a m-ATX board imo.

PSU is fine, it'll power that rig just fine, and considering how good that case is, its a heck of a deal. With such a tight budget and high requirements its a necessary compromise imo.

He definitely does not want to go with anything but a quad core in this day and age. If the X4 955 is too expensive then the Athlon ii X4 630 is the only other option worth considering.

Edit: Alternative monitor

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/169049

 

[lennylightspeed]

Alright, I've got my first part ordered (Antec 300 case) and I've decided to bump up my budget a bit in the name of 'future proofing' haha.

Here are some parts I am looking at right now...

I really want the AMD Phenom II X4 955. Newegg has it for $160...is that an okay price for that CPU?

Also, I've been looking at a few different motherboards and power supplies and I'm stuck. Any good suggestions for something that would last but still fits my budget? (around 800 overall)

I had looked at the 890GX MOBO but there aren't many reviews on it yet.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131631&cm_re=890GX-_-13-131-631-_-Product

Finally, I am pretty sure with going with the 5770. I might be able to jump up my budget some more though if there is a card that is a huge jump over that. Should I just stick with the 5770 for now and upgrade down the road or is there something better to get now? Thanks for all the help guys!

 

[Kintaro]

Looks like I have to RMA my motherboard. Sigh. Another two weeks lost.

 

[Avyrocky]

Does anyone know if an ATI 5970 can Fit into the Cooler Master CM690 II? Even with the HDD bays in the CM-690 unscrewed and rotated 90º?

 

[Odious Tea]

Does anyone know if an ATI 5970 can Fit into the Cooler Master CM690 II? Even with the HDD bays in the CM-690 unscrewed and rotated 90º?

I don't think it will unless you remove the HDD bays. It's not a full tower.

 

[Slo]

Parts ordered! Q9550 and a 5850!

 

[isamu]

Guys I need your help please.

It seems that Fallout 3 in particular, is causing my PC to overheat and shutdown despite it having liquid cooling! Perhaps you can offer some advice on how to cool this puppy down, but before I go on here are relavent parts of my specs:

# INTEL, Core™ 2 Duo E8500 Dual-Core, 3.16GHz, 1333MHz FSB, 6MB L2 Cache, 45nm, 65W, EM64T EIST VT XD, Retail

# SERVICE, Overclocking, Dual-Core CPU, 20-30% Performance Increase to 4.0Ghz

# COOLERMASTER, Aquagate S1, CPU Liquid Cooler, Socket 775/754/939/940/AM2, Copper

# CUSTOM, Coolant, Crystal Clear

# ASUS, P5Q Pro, LGA775, Intel® P45, 1600MHz
FSB, DDR2-1200 16GB /4, PCIe x16 CF /2, SATA 3.0 Gbit/s RAID 5 /8, HDA, GbLAN, FW /2, ATX, Retail

# OCZ, 4GB (2 x 2GB) Reaper HPC Edition PC2-8500 DDR2 1066MHz CL 5-5-5-18 2.1-2.3V SDRAM DIMM, Non-ECC

# VISIONTEK, Radeon® HD 4870 750MHz, 512MB GDDR5 1800Mhz, PCIe x16 CrossFire, DVI /2, Retail

# SERVICE, Overclocking, Single GPU, Optimal and Stable Performance

# WESTERN DIGITAL, 640GB WD Caviar® SE16 (WD6400AAKS), SATA 3 Gb/s, 7200-RPM, 16MB cache

# WESTERN DIGITAL, 640GB WD Caviar® SE16 (WD6400AAKS), SATA 3 Gb/s, 7200-RPM, 16MB cache

# RAID, RAID 0 (striping), min 2 hard drives required

# THERMALTAKE, M9 Black Mid-Tower Case w/ Window, ATX, No PSU, SECC

# CASE FAN, NON-LED, Fans Maximum Package, Low Noise

# COOLERMASTER, eXtreme Power 650W Power Supply, 24-pin ATX12V, SLI Ready

....now, the temperature report(from Hmonitor) I am getting when doing nothing but surfing the net is as follows:

Hmonitor Version 4.4.3.5 Pro AC753E53
(Trial)

Monitored data values:

Mainboard=51.0°C (0,Thermistor,0.0°C)

CPU=60.0°C (1,Diode,0.0°C)

Temp3=5.0°C (0,Thermistor,0.0°C)

CPU0 Core=75.0°C (0,CoreTemp,0.0°C)

Chassis=1188 rpm

CPU1=8437 rpm

CPU2=1240 rpm

Power=xxxx rpm

Core=+1.39V

Aux=+3.12V
+3.3V=+3.31V
+5V=+5.16V
+12V=+11.93V
-12V=-xx.xxV
-5V=-x.xxV

VGA device: ATI Radeon HD 4800 Series

VGA GPU=80.0°C

When playing Fallout 3, the CPU temps average around 93 degrees! While GPU averages around 80! Once the CPU hits 100 degrees the PC shuts off. I don't think I have never had this PC get this hot before, it only started after playing Fallout 3.

Anyway, what are your suggestions to cool down this puppy? Do you suspect something is wrong with my liquid cooling system? Perhaps the fans aren't going fast enough? Remember, the E8500 CPU is overclocked from 3.1Ghz to 4.0Ghz. Should I down clock it a couple ticks?

Finally are there any refrigerated solutions out there? My room can get pretty hot especially during the summer.