first time builder--maybe?

[demana]

Ok, I've never messed with a mobo installation before. Components/hard drives/cards/etc no problem, but I'm a little hesitant about building from scratch. I really want the option to select my own case and a quiet power supply (like the Antec Overture), or I'd probably just go with Dell. I've looked at barebones systems at Mwave and a few other places, but they all have limited case/mobo options.

From what I can tell, the prices aren't much better building it myself (except I get to choose everything of course). Directron seemed to have a system with the Overture case that might work--any thoughts on buying a system that they assemble?

Or, should I just bite the bullet and build what I want? Sure it would be a learning experience, but I doubt I'll build another one for quite some time--I'm currently using a p3 550🙂

General specs:
P4 2.6/2.8 w/ 800fsb
mobo would probably be Asus P4P800 or Abit IS7
1 gig PC3200
120 GB hard drive
Dvd burner
Radeon 9600 pro/xt (can't get at Dell)
WinXP

 

[Bonesdad]

It's easy enough if you use common sense and caution. I'd do the self build...may not save you $$, but it's more fun.

 

[ScrapSilicon]

I'd probably just go with Dell

excellent idea esp. w/P4

 

[Achilles97]

Hello,
I recommend building it yourself. It's easy, the software install is the most difficult part. For the hardware part, it's just plugging stuff in. Most mobos now automatically detect everything, there's no need to mess with jumpers. The hardest part of the hardware install is getting the leds on the case hooked up correctly, and that's pretty easy.

It just seems more satisfying building it yourself.

 

[DotheDamnTHing]

get a poweredge 400sc...youll be happy

 

[PowerEngineer]

I think you've got the pros and cons pretty well defined. After buying my previous machine, I promised my self to build the next one from scratch. I know I paid more because I selected some components you just won't find in a mainstream Dell (or any other manufacturer's) machines...and frankly I'm not sure I'll ever use them to their full potential. But it was fun and educational!

 

[JaydenChris]

i agree with those who suggest building your own system. one thing to keep in mind, however, is to take your time. don't get too excited when you start building because you'll end up missing a small but important detail and become frustrated. if you have a plan layed out, it'll make thing go smoothly. achilles brings up a good point about the led's from the case....they're tricky.

overall, it's a fun experience and you'll learn more along the way then just buying a computer.

**my 2 cents

 

[polloloco]

If you are unsure of yourself buy a computer...

 

[Farmer]

And then you will always be unsure.

To sum up the overtly difficult task of installing a motherboard:

1.) Open motherboard package (make sure to apply the proper amount of force to the clear adhesive holding the box together, as any excess force may result in getting the box opened faster)
2.) Rest motherboard on a stable surface with the antistatic bag still on
3.) Unscrew motherboard tray and remove completely from case (this is if your case is a respectable one made in the last, oh, five years).
4.) Depending on your motherboard tray, you may have to install risers at the correct locations (a, and I stress this, *EXTREMELY COMPLEX AND CHALLENGING* matter of matching up holes on your mobo with holes on your tray).
5.) Get screws (!!!)
6.) Screw your motherboard in with those screws (... !!!)
7.) Slide your tray back into the case, and start hooking things up.

You might have detected some sarcasm. Don't sweat it. There's absolutely nothing to it. There are plenty of step-by-step guides on the internet, just follow one of them. Good luck.

Of course, don't install the motherboard into the case unless you have already test-booted the system outside the case (basically, hook the power up, install ram, cpu and video card and turn it on to make sure it posts properly). RAM install is a breeze (don't be afraid to use some force, and have your motherboard resting on some foam padding), and CPU install is only hard if your pins are bent. Otherwise, its a drop-in fit. If your pins are bent, use a credit card or 0.5mm mechanical pencil to straighten those pins out (as I have learned previously).

The most difficult part of building a computer? None. However, there are annoying things, such as: 1.) if something doesn't work, finding the bad part. 2.) If something simply to seat correctly inside the case, getting that part to fit 3.) software issues.

 

[Cerb]

With the exception of a few things here and there, building it yourself will give better results if you care about performance, even on meeger parts.
If you can stand not tweaking it, Dell will do fine.