How much power will I need???

[Gusty987]

I am customizing a PC at HP.com, because I've never built a PC and don't know how. I would like to know if this is a good gaming PC and if there is anything I could change to make if better for gaming.

A64 3200+ at 2.0GHz
1 GB PC3200 DDR RAM
120GB 7200rpm ultra-DMA Hard Drive
16X Max. DVD-ROM Drive
8X DVD+RW/+R drive (DVD writer & CD-writer combo)
3.5" floppy
Integrated 5.1 Capable Sound
Radeon 9800 PRO

Also, it only comes w/ 250watts of power. I know that 250 watts will not be enough power for this rig. Which brand and how much watts do you recommend I get to use this PC safely? And, is it bad to have too much more power than you need? And is there anything I could change to make if better for gaming?

 

[islandtechengineers]

so far it sound like a decent rig. the hardrive theory, how many games are you going to have installed on your pc? I have 140 gigs, in which i thought i would never find use for, but your going to be surprised on how fast it will vanish. you can run all games out to date on that machine. what you whould start to consider is the future.... halflife 2? doom3? would you want to run those games with the best stats your machine should be able to push with your current setup or would you plan on upgrading again after those games are released and you see other benchmarks showing up on other rigs (that could give an idea of your going to need for the future). your current rig is pretty sweet, the PSU should be able to take the juice; but upgrade to a 350 - 500 for security. I'll post some more in a couple of hours, but i gotta get back to work right now!

 

[Gusty987]

Ok, cool, thanks! Anyone else?

 

[MercenaryForHire]

Read mechBgon's guide (in this same forum) and build the machine yourself. Your pocketbook will thank you, and you can feel extra happy with your newfound knowledge.

- M4H

 

[Maximilian]

Your rig seems fine, for the PSU i would recommend an Antec Truepower 430W. That'll definatly be enough for your rig.