First time PC build for computationally intense program

[TBay]

I am trying to verify that this setup will work well. This is my first time building a computer. A big focus of the build is to reconstruct images. Currently, it takes around 45 minutes per image on my '05 HP laptop (1.7GHz, 2GB RAM, XP). I would like to make this much faster. Also, as mentioned below, I am planning on switching to water cooling eventually.

Use:

• 
  *Reconstruction of images in MATLAB (Very computationally intensive, some functions DO take advantage of parallel processing)
  *Running Windows 7 (Vista 64-bit until release of Windows 7, and programs are compatible)
  *Occasionally use 3D CAD (Solidworks)
  *Everyday computing
  *Entertainment (Movies, Maybe interface to TV,NO Gaming)
  *4-7 year operating life
  *Must have Dual Monitors

Budget: About $1k (Already have monitor, keyboard, mouse)

Country: All in U.S. (Planning to use newegg.com)

Preference: I would prefer to use Intel. I plan to switch to liquid cooling as some point.

Overclocking: I plan on overclocking once I get the setup working well.

Resolution: Whatever fits in budget.

Research: Since I have limited free time (Full-time student), I have only read the buying guide at newegg.com and a few random articles and books. I also have received advice from a Frys' salesmen who seemed very knowledgeable.

Setup:

• MB: Gigabyte EP45-UD3P (LGA-775)
  Graphics: EVGA 01G-P3-N945-LR GeForce 9400 GT 1GB 128-Bit GDDR2 PCIe 2.0 x16
  Prcocessor.: Intel Q9550 Quad-core Yorkfield 2.83GHz
  RAM: G.Skill 2GB 240-pin DDR2 SDRAM Dual Channel Kit
  Optic: Samsung 22x DVD+RW 16X DVD-ROM 48X CD-Rom 2MB Cache Sata
  OS: Vista Home Premium SP1 64-Bit (Windows 7 later)
  PS: Cooler Master RS-700 ATX12V
  Case: Cooler Master Storm Scout SGC-2000-KKN1-GP Case and Power supply combo deal

How does everything look? I am hoping to order parts within the next week. Any advice/comments greatly appreciated.

Thanks for the help!

 

[Blain]

Originally posted by: TBay
I also have received advice from a Frys' salesmen who seemed very knowledgeable.

Setup:

• MB: Gigabyte EP45-UD3P (LGA-775)
  Graphics: EVGA 01G-P3-N945-LR GeForce 9400 GT 1GB 128-Bit GDDR2 PCIe 2.0 x16
  Prcocessor.: Intel Q9550 Quad-core Yorkfield 2.83GHz
  RAM: G.Skill 2GB 240-pin DDR2 SDRAM Dual Channel Kit
  Optic: Samsung 22x DVD+RW 16X DVD-ROM 48X CD-Rom 2MB Cache Sata
  OS: Vista Home Premium SP1 64-Bit (Windows 7 later)
  PS: Cooler Master RS-700 ATX12V
  Case: Cooler Master Storm Scout SGC-2000-KKN1-GP Case and Power supply combo deal

How does everything look?

* The salesman should have told you to go with a minimum of 4GB's of memory.
* If you want "4-7 year operating life", you should probably opt for a Core i7 combo.

 

[TBay]

Sorry, I should have mentioned that. I plan on starting with 4GB RAM (Purchasing in units of 2GB).

I will look into the i7. The Core i7 920 Nehalem 2.66GHz is the only one in my price range. What motherboard would you recommend to go with it?