• We’re currently investigating an issue related to the forum theme and styling that is impacting page layout and visual formatting. The problem has been identified, and we are actively working on a resolution. There is no impact to user data or functionality, this is strictly a front-end display issue. We’ll post an update once the fix has been deployed. Thanks for your patience while we get this sorted.

Critique this noob's first system build!

Page 2 - Seeking answers? Join the AnandTech community: where nearly half-a-million members share solutions and discuss the latest tech.
Well, I just did a search and couldn't come up with anything about x800 pro vs. x800xl.
As for now I'll be sticking to the ati x800xl unless someone convinces me otherwise.
 
By the way, should I get the OEM processor that comes alone for $180 or the retail version that has a heatsink and fan for $190?

Remember I am getting an AMD athlon 64 3200 winchester 939.

-Thanks
 
Your call on the processor. If you are not going to OC, stock HSF is probably OK. You also get a warranty (if that is important to you).

On the other hand, if you are dying to OC and want a better HSF, save the $10.

**EDIT**
Box version includes the little green "Athlon 64" sticker. I don't know if OEM gets the sticker.
 
Originally posted by: Sandman223
By the way, should I get the OEM processor that comes alone for $180 or the retail version that has a heatsink and fan for $190?

Remember I am getting an AMD athlon 64 3200 winchester 939.

-Thanks
Click to expand...


I would not go with OEM for two reasons; especialy since he is new.

Number one is the warrenty. Retail CPU's have a longer warrenty and are coverd by AMD. OEM CPU's warrenties are handled through the place where it was purchased, so if buycpus.com goes out of buisness in 3 months after you purchased it you will be so out of luck. Also warrenty policies vary from store to store, so you will need to check out the policy before you buy.
Some buiseness will charge you a certain percentage % to take something back and if that happens you would have lost money instead of saving it.


Number two, buying a Retail box CPU is one way of ensuring that he is getting an Authentic AMD processor and not a Counterfeit Chineese made one. When you get the processor, do not open the box; instead call AMD and verifiy the Serial Number and Production Codes with them. AMD Retail CPU's made in the last few months now have certain security and authenticaion features on the package. Call AMD to find out. I recoment every one spend the extra few $ Dollars or Pesos on a retail CPU. Even if you plan on overclocking, buy one and use a differant Heatsink and Fan.
 
Originally posted by: harrkev
Your call on the processor. If you are not going to OC, stock HSF is probably OK. You also get a warranty (if that is important to you).

On the other hand, if you are dying to OC and want a better HSF, save the $10.

**EDIT**
Box version includes the little green "Athlon 64" sticker. I don't know if OEM gets the sticker.
Click to expand...

OEM does not have a sticker. Also it may not be an authentic processor.
 
Originally posted by: Googer
What is the differance between x800xl x800 pro? I cannot keep up with all these little changes they make to video cards. It's getting a bit ridiculous if you ask me.

I believe the pro is the faster card of the two and is also on sale ($279) for less than the cost of the xl (for today only!)
Click to expand...

The XL is newer, using the R430 chip according to AnandTech's article. Its core is built on a 110nm process, and is clocked a bit lower than the Pro. Memory is clocked faster, and it has more pixel pipelines.

I'm not sure exactly how performance compares between the two.
 
Originally posted by: ts3433
Originally posted by: Googer
What is the differance between x800xl x800 pro? I cannot keep up with all these little changes they make to video cards. It's getting a bit ridiculous if you ask me.

I believe the pro is the faster card of the two and is also on sale ($279) for less than the cost of the xl (for today only!)
Click to expand...

The XL is newer, using the R430 chip according to AnandTech's article. Its core is built on a 110nm process, and is clocked a bit lower than the Pro. Memory is clocked faster, and it has more pixel pipelines.

I'm not sure exactly how performance compares between the two.
Click to expand...

Acording to Newegg.com
PRO Has 12
http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProduct.asp?submit=property&DEPA=1

XL Has 16 but a slower GPU and RAM
http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=14-131-299&depa=1

So XL is just an underclocked version of XT. If I were placing bets, Mine would go on the XL because of it's extra processsing capability.
 
I ordered all my stuff today. Thanks for the helpful advice, guys.

Here is what I went with:

Processor: AMD Athlon 64 3200+ winchester - $190
Memory: 1GB Corsair Value Select DDR PC3200 - $97
Video: ATI Radeon X800XL - $294
Mobo: DFI Lanparty UT NF4 Ultra D- $137
Case: Antec Sonata with 380W Power Supply - $96
HD:Seagate 160GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive - $99
DVD: NEC 16x 3520A - $59

Monitor: Hyundai L90D+ 19" - $374

Total: $1346


 
You must log in or register to reply here.

TRENDING THREADS

Back
Top