Best CHEAP motherboard & chip combo for CAD work?

[BaDaBooM]

I need to build a computer to use programs like AutoCAD with decent performance. However I need this to be as cheap as possible. This is the only thing I need it for so I can skimp on everything except the video and processor (I've already got some ram). What would be the cheapest model to look for and still get what I need out of it? My first thought is one of the NVIDIA crush motherboards with the onboard video, but are those even out yet?

 

[NFS4]

A 1.4GHz Athlon + ECS K7S5A will get you out the door for under $200.

 

[Kazi]

is there a best and cheap motherboard....kinda get what ya pay for hehe

 

[BaDaBooM]

Well.... Best one to buy, as in the cheapest that will still have enough performance for CAD work. Not best combo that is also cheap. NFS4 gave a good suggestion. I actually looked on pricewatch and found that MB combo'ed with an 850mhz Athlon for $108 + shipping. Kick-arse!

 

[MisterNi]

I've heard that auto cad really benifits from sse enabled processors?? If that's the case, then I'd wait for the palomino to come out (or athlon mp if you want dual) with the ecs mobo. The palomino should be coming out any week now

 

[nuttervm]

i'd go with what nfs4 said. its worth the extra $ to get the 1.4 at not too much more cash

 

[Muerto]

I'm running Autodesk Inventor and Mechanical Desktop on an Athlon 800 with an A7V. Runs like a charm. The ECS K7S5A would probably be the best bet for a cheap system.

 

[Kung Lau]

Cheap and CAD go together???