Allround workstation in a small case?

[larsp]

Hi anandtech forum!

I'm about to build a new PC for allround use. The thing is, I want to avoid the usual clumsy tower case but I still want a decent workstation:

- Low power, low noise
- Small size
- Good CPU performance (core 2 duo something)
- Good graphics performance (Radeon HD 4670), I have a 1680x1050 lcd.
- TV-tuner
- 3.5" harddrive
- CD/DVD drive

When I say good performance I probably mean lower mainstream, but you get the picture.

I'm not asking about component details but I would like to get some input about the case. Can I cram these standard components into a small compact case? How small can I get, any recommendations?

Thanks in advance,
Lars P.

 

[Blain]

Originally posted by: larsp
The thing is, I want to avoid the usual clumsy tower case but I still want a decent workstation:

Thanks in advance,
Lars P.

Sounds like you need a Cray CX1.

 

[Roguestar]

If you get a small "mATX compatible" case, you can add an mATX motherboard and stick all the other parts you want into it. Gigabyte and Asus do mATX G31/33/35 and G41/45 intel chipset boards. These have integrated graphics but you can still add your own graphics card.

http://www.newegg.com/Store/Su...=7&name=Computer-Cases
Select either "micro ATX desktop", "micro ATX mini tower" or "micro ATX slim case", then go browse the motherboard section for a good motherboard that says "micro ATX" (such as this one: http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16813128338 )

 

[larsp]

Thanks Roguestar, Micro ATX is just the concept I knew existed but had forgotten the name of

Checking the stores in Denmark I'm currently considering the Antec NSK1380 case which is good value for me as it includes a 80+ rated 350 Watt powersupply.

For the CPU I'm strongly attracted to "Core 2 Duo (Wolfdale) Model E7200 (2.53GHz), EM64T, 1066FSB, 3MB Cache (LGA775), BOX " as it is powerfull enough for me and very energy effecient.

About GPU, I think that ASUS HD 4670 is the right choice for me.

So the following questions remain:

1. Say I select the E7200 and Radeon 4670, beside that I will recycle one PATA HD and a DVD burner, will the 350 Watt antec powersupply be adequate?

2. How good is the Intel in-a-box cooler I get with E7200 ?

3. The big one... What motherboard and RAM should I get?? I have no clue about developments in motherboards so I need help here. My requirements to the motherboard are simple:

* Micro-atx
* Will match E7200 and Radeon 4670 well
* Gigabit ethernet
* Decent audio
* No fan
* Good, long lasting quality
* Good value

Thanks for any inputs!

(this build will be finally replace my old trusty athlon xp 2000+ and radeon 9600 XT )

 

[Roguestar]

The 350W should be good, assuming it's a good quality PSU. In terms of watts, it's definitely enough.

The Intel retail cooler is good, and also good enough to sustain a mild overclock should you so wish.

Here's a motherboard that looks pretty decent:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16813128338
Probably not much of an overclocker but if you can't get that exact one in Denmark, look for basically any G31/33/35/41/45 motherboard by Gigabyte or Asus at a reasonable price.

 

[jae]

Are you planning on overclocking? If not, then this is build will be okay.
Are you a gamer? If not, then you dont really need the HD4670, the Integrated Video will do fine.

Theres a sticky thread that you're suppose to read before asking for help, so people can better help you.

Misco.co.UK

138844 :: Sapphire HD4670 512Mb GDDR3 PCI-Express Grapics card (1 Kg)
In Stock
£55.31 ex VAT
£64.99 inc VAT

Q136428 :: PNY TECHNOLOGIES Memory/4GB Kit( 2 x 2GB ) Dimm PC (0.12 Kg)
In Stock
£38.29 ex VAT
£44.99 inc VAT

Q124767 :: Antec NSK 1380 Micro ATX Cube Case (2.5 Kg)
Buy now - while stock lasts
£63.04 ex VAT
£74.07 inc VAT

138309 :: Gigabyte GA-G33M-S2L socket LGA775 motherboard (0.5 Kg)
In stock at our suppliers, 1-2 days
£49.35 ex VAT
£57.99 inc VAT

138522 :: Intel Core 2 Duo E7200 Socket LGA775 processor (0.5 Kg)
In Stock
£74.89 ex VAT
£88.00 inc VAT

Subtotal £280.88 ex VAT
VAT £49.15