First Computer Build

[PBiddy412]

Okay, I'm going to be building my first computer. Currently I have two of the things I wanted and I have recieved ASPIRE X-Alien Blue Aluminum Server Case with 420W Power Supply and the Raptor 10,000 Hard Drive. My question is, if I get the Asus SLI board (when prices drop) what would be a good CPU (AMD) for overclocking as well as a video card. I like the X800 series, might wait for x850, or any suggestion anyone might suggest. And I did read the thing on overclocking but still a little unsure of things. Cooling I just wasn't sure about. Would I need cooling to go with the setup I'm looking towards? Thanks in advance! Hope someone can help me out!

 

[ts3433]

Why do you want an SLI board when you're getting cards that don't support it? Get the Chaintech VNF4/Ultra--$120 and has one PCIe x16 slot. For a good overclocking CPU, any of the Winchesters will do. They routinely hit 2.6GHz on air, sometimes more. Try a 3200+. For a video card, get an X800 XL if you can wait for it--it looks like it will unseat the 6800GT as the high-end value leader. If not, I suggest a 6800GT, but go ahead and get an X800 Pro or XT if you can find it cheaper or around the same price.

You obviously need cooling for any PC. If you're doing a light overclock, the stock HSF is fine, but for heavier ones, consider an aftermarket unit from Thermalright or Zalman.

I think a better power supply would be a very wise investment--generics really aren't your best bet, especially not for overclocking. Watts aren't everything. I suggest looking into some Enermaxes and Fortrons that fit your budget.

 

[dnuggett]

The XLI board and X800 is useless together. I would go for a single 6800OC, I don't believe SLI is worth the added cost at all. But if you have that kinda coin layin around... go for it. If you paln on OC'ing you need to toss than generic PSU. Antec, PCP&C Enermax and OCZ are among the top names in PSU, a 350W and up woudl suit you fine. As far as cooling I ahven't looked at that case, but exhaust on the top and rear are important. Intake on mine is from the side and front (5 fans total). As far as the CPU I'd go AMD 64 2800+ or 3000+ and OC it.

 

[PBiddy412]

Thanks for the responses guys. Chaintech sounds like a good deal too. I was thinking of doing that but wasn't sure if SLI would be useless. I have a few coins laying around but I don't think they should be wasted on technology that isn't needed. I'm just looking for a gaming machine to work flawlessly. As for video cards, would this be a good one:

http://www.gamepc.com/shop/pro...Fid=3D%2DSAPX800PROPCI

I am not sure if that price is to high for that card. I was looking at that card though and thought that would be good to go along with my system. I think thats about it for my questions. I think I'll go with the Chaintech board from newegg and also a 3200+ and I'll look at cooling devices. Thanks again!