[undefined]

Hi guys,

This is my situation. I have a few parts laying around that I got free after rebates from times like BF, and other holidays. I have a few parts that are not being used (haven't been opened) and would like to perhaps build a computer.

I'm looking to build a computer for either of two uses: for CS:Source/HL2 --or-- just a PC to fool around with on linux. If I do build the linux one, I'd still like to put in decent parts in the PC. Nothing high end, just something decent.

Here is what I have:

Operating System - I can get any MS product for free (legally through my college)... so no need for an OS.

Ultra Wizard ATX Case - Blue

Ultra V Series 500 Watt ATX Power Supply

1. 20/24 Pin Motherboard Connector
2. 4pin +12 Mobo Connector
3. 4 pin Molex Connectors
4. PCI Express Connector
5. SATA Connectors
6. 4 Pin Floppy Connectors
7. 120 mm fan

Samsung 22" Monitor, 225BW

Adaptec DuoConnect PCI card for USB/Firewire (3 USB 2.0 ports, 2 FW)

Maxtor 200GB Hard Drive (internal) (currently in an external enclosure, though I'll take it out for the PC).

I really don't know how much a decent system would cost me, but I'm not looking to spend that much. A few hundred, maybe less than $200? Is that a feasible number?

Could anyone give me some advice? I haven't really built a system before, so I'm not sure what components go with what.

Thanks.

[DJ EndurancE]

Sounds like you have quite a bit already! I'd look into a pair of Sony DVD-RW drives (with lightscribe if you really want to go all out), also a graphics card. I've had good luck with ATI, so check around because the prices are dropping every time a new one comes out -- it seems. Here's one you might want to check out:

www.pcconnection.com/ProductDetail?sku=7465054&oext=1038A&ci_src=141109 44&ci_sku=7465054

As for your CPU, don't get anything under 2 Ghz, cause they're SLOOOOW.... believe me! I've heard that AVG makes good CPUs, but I've never really tested one against an Intel, so I don't have much to say on that. My Intel Celeron 2.9Ghz gives a lot of speed to my system, and it has a monster of a cooling fan, so no worries about overheating while gaming, etc.

Go for at least 1GB of RAM for this system, 2GB would be better. If you're planning to install Vista, you'll need about 2GB because Vista is a memory HOG!! (And I'm of the belief that XP Pro whips Vista's bottom any day.) :rolleyes:

Very good choice on the 500W power supply too.

If I'm missing anything here, please let me know -- Happy to help!

[undefined]

Can you perhaps help me out on specific parts for the computer? I'm not too sure what to look for.

Great advice so far, thanks.

[Redmo0n]

Do you live in america?

Newegg.com - Computer Parts, PC Components, Laptop Computers, Digital Cameras and more!

[undefined]

I do, but I'm having a hard time knowing what I specifically need.

[Nukem]

AMD AM2 x2 3800 - 58.00
Newegg.com - AMD Athlon 64 X2 3800+ Windsor 2.0GHz 2 x 512KB L2 Cache Socket AM2 89W Dual-Core Processor - Retail
ASUS M2N mobo - 73.00
Newegg.com - ASUS M2N AM2 NVIDIA nForce 430 MCP ATX AMD Motherboard - Retail
ASUS 8500GT - 80.00
Newegg.com - ASUS EN8500GT TOP/HTP/256M GeForce 8500GT 256MB 128-bit GDDR3 PCI Express x16 HDCP Ready Video Card - Retail
G. SKILL 2x1GB DDR2 800 - 47.00
Newegg.com - G.SKILL 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory - Retail
Sony 20x SATA DVD burner - 26.00
Newegg.com - Sony NEC Optiarc Black 20X DVD+R 8X DVD+RW 8X DVD+R DL 20X DVD-R 6X DVD-RW 16X DVD-ROM 48X CD-R 32X CD-RW 48X CD-ROM SATA 20X DVD±R DVD Burner - OEM


284.00 without shipping

you could probably shave it down some but I think this would do you for just about any medium gaming you would want to do...

[undefined]

Hi, thanks for showing me the parts.

If I were to buy these, how easy would the hook up be?

[DJ EndurancE]

Whoa, that's going to be one sweet computer! Post a pic of it when you're done!!


How easy is the hookup? Well, if you like what you're doing the time will fly. I don't know much about installing motherboards or video cards, but..... Make sure you configure your disc drive's rear jumper block properly before booting to the BIOS, or you're apt to run into some conflicts. Select which IDE slot on the motherboard you want it in, (PRIMARY OR SECONDARY) then decide if you want it as a MASTER or SLAVE. If it's your first drive on that slot, you'll want it as a master, so check your hard drive manual for the proper jump block config. After you boot to BIOS, configure the setup to the way you have it in the computer's case. (It should set up properly on it's own, but I've some BIOS systems do otherwise, LOL!)

Also, make sure you have your memory in the motherboard before you boot, otherwise your computer screen is going to be pretty dark....... :freak:

And make sure you plug everything into the power supply. LOL, one time I forgot to plug the silly CD drive into that, and I was like: "Dude, how come I can't boot to the Windows disc????? Oh yeah, plugging it in would help....duh......"

Btw, that CPU that Nukem recommended -- way to go!! I didn't know you could even get dual-cores at that price. I'm behind the times I guess. I'd go for it.....

Let us know if you need any more help.