I need recommendations

[nbourbaki]

Help! I'm looking to build a SOHO/Kids gaming machine. I've read both the SOHO and Game System recommendation articles from last year. I was wondering, if you were choosing the components today, what would you choose?

* My number one requirement is stability. I have no patience with lockups, so I will not be overclocking.
* I'd like to keep the complete system cost down to $600.
* The components need to last a minimum of 3 years.
* I'll be running Windows XP Home
* I don't build a PC often (last one was a Pentium 3/233Mhz) so I will need a board with decent documentation.

Thanks for the help

 

[pspada]

one of the FIC motherboard should fit the bill. The AU13 (nForce2) goes for about $85. Add your choice of AMD Athlon XP CPUs, memory, etc, and you are good to go.

 

[nbourbaki]

Thanks pspada for the recommendation. What case do you usually use with this MB? I ask, because one of the comments on newegg.com is that the board requires a 12V connection. I'm considering the Antec MODEL SLK3700AMB case.

Thanks again

 

[sector51]

doesnt matter what case it is...as long as its an atx case which is almost any NEW case out there

 

[pspada]

here's a whole buncha nice and cost effective cases w/power supplies

 

[infinite012]

The FIC AU13 has an ATX12v connection, just like the P4 boards do. I think it's a requirement because the computer I built with that board refused to boot without it plugged in. Then again, they may have revised the board to not include this plug...

 

[pspada]

Nope, it requires that square 4 pronged plug. All of the Raidmax power supplies have it.