Motherboard/PSU recommendations for Intel Core 2 Duo system

[Nibelheim]

I'm looking to build a new system around an Intel Core 2 Duo CPU (the E6400). Specifically I'm not sure what the best motherboard would be, and I'm also not sure how big of a PSU I'd need for a dual-core system (it's been a while since I've built a new system). There is no firm budget, though I'd like to keep the mobo under $120-150. I've been happy with ASUS mobos w/NVIDIA chipsets in the past, but those have been AMD systems, and I don't know if that's the best choice for Intel platforms.

I have an AGP video card (ATI Radeon 9600XT) and a PCI Creative Audigy sound card I would like to reuse if possible, although if I have to replace the video card I would be OK with that. But I really would like the 1 PCI slot.

The purpose of this computer is programming, and running simulations, so a lot of number crunching. This will not be a gaming/graphics intensive machine, and I don't plan to overclock.

I think once I know the mobo and PSU I can figure out the rest, although if anyone has specific recommendations for other components I'd be open to them.

Thanks!

-nibelheim

 

[secretanchitman]

since you would like to reuse your AGP card (the newer mobos nowdays have at least 2 pci slots, so dont worry), i would suggest getting the ASRock 775Dual-VSTA motherboard - http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16813157092

you can even use DDR ram, as well as your AGP card. plus it has slots for DDR2 ram, a PCI-E x16 card, and 4 PCI slots.

oh, ASRock is owned by ASUS, so you should be pleased. the best part? its under 60 bucks.

as far as the PSU goes, you cant go wrong with a 400W/450W fortron psu. link - http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16817104954 (450W) and http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16817104953 (400W)

hope that helps. it should be around 100 bucks total.