Need help selecting components (on a budget)

[teddymines]

I have a very tired P133 that needs replacement, but I don't want to spend a lot of money on top-of-the-line components. The new system will be used for gaming, linux, windows 98, and some database dev. Any recommendations would be appreciated:

Epox EP-8K7A
Crucial 256MB DDR PC2100, unbuffered, non-parity
AMD T-Bird C, 1.2GHz, 266FSB, w/heatsink and fan
Case, AMD approved 400W power supply
Geforce 2 GTS 64MB DDR
WD300BB Caviar 30.0GB Ultra ATA/100
Scavenge existing CDROM, modem, monitor

Any tips, particularly in the cooling and case areas? I don't plan on overclocking right now, but want to be able to when the newer 4GHz chips come out.

The parts listed above come out to around $700.

If you put together a similar system, let me know how it's working for you. Thanks.

 

[ericb]

I would replace the modem if it's ISA...keep if it's PCI (unless it's a WinModem).

 

[Techwhore]

this machine is gonna make a WORLD of difference in your life. You're gonna go from one end of the spectrum to the other

I might change the board to an Abit, Asus or MSI but not because there's anything wrong with Epox, just so happens that i love those 3 brands, never done me wrong.

 

[teddymines]

Techwhore, actually my motherboard choices were down to the Gigabyte GA-7DXR and the Epox. The Epox edged ahead with their new bios version for better overclocking.

 

[NelsonMuntz]

Looks like a great system and should be great for you. The modem s/b fine as long as it is a PCI (winmodem or not). No burner in there? Do you already have one? You can get a decent burner for less than $100 now, so it s/b a consideration. Otherwise everything looks good and have fun!