New Build - What Else do I Need

[DruidAllanon]

I just ordered the following this past week:

Coolermaster Stacker (Black)
A64 3500+ Retail
MSI K8N NEO4 Platinum
1G Corsair Value Ram DDR400
PowerColor X800XL
WD 74G Raptor
Fortron 500W Blue Storm
Seagate 120 G 7200.8 SATA w/NCQ
NEC 3520A Black
Floppy Black

I have XP Pro, keyboard, mouse and monitor. I will use the onboard sound.

It has been a couple of years since I built, so please let me know what else I need to get.

1. HD cables (neither drive came in a retail box). What cables should I get?

2. I would like a temperature monitor to put in one of my 5.25 drive bays. What is a good one?

3. Is a fan controller worthwhile on this rig? If so, what should I get.

Can you think of anything else I am missing?

Thanks.

 

[ts3433]

Your board should come with some SATA cables; if you need more just get some regular SATA cables.

2 and 3 I have no idea.

 

[Cerpin Taxt]

I recently built almost EXACTLY the same system, except I decided to add a Raptor later on, and I got a 6600GT. I also got a Zalman HSF unit instead of using the stock unit, and I'm ordering another case fan, but yeah. The Zalman has a fan controller w/ it, too. The case I got came with a built-in temperature monitor, and I was able to hide the fan controller behind the 2nd floppy drive cover -- I thought it worked out nicely.

Your mobo should come with 2 SATA cables, and MSI bundles some pretty good software with it that should also monitor CPU temps for you. You might think about some Arctic Silver 5 thermal grease. I used some.

 

[DruidAllanon]

I wanted the Raptor as my main drive to take advantage of its speed with the OS and programs, so I really need it for the initial build. I will use the second HD for backup and excess data (if I ever start creating a lot; that is not an issue right now).

 

[PhoenixOrion]

Looks good.
Start downloading drivers for prep work.

No need for fan controllers at the moment until you have the entire rig together. If you think stock stacker case fans are loud then go for controller.

I always liked vantec fan controllers with built in temp lcd.

 

[thegimp03]

Nice rig...can't think of anything.

 

[Wild1]

Some fan controllers will also provide temp readout so you shouldn't need to buy both a temp monitor and a separate fan controller. Lots of options on the fan controllers, personally I have narrowed it down to the Gatewatch. Takes up two 5.25 slots but I like the looks. Comes in black or silver.
http://www.systemcooling.com/gatewatch-01.html

My second choice is is the Silverstone Eudemon
http://www.tomshardware.com/howto/20040615/fan-controller-06.html
http://www.cluboverclocker.com/reviews/controllers/Silverstone_Eudemon/index.htm

Once again, depends what you want, manual overrides, fancy UI, 3 fans, 4 fans... You could get lots of opinions on what is best.. but for me these were my finalist ...Hope it helps.

 

[DruidAllanon]

Those temp monitors/ fan controllers look excellent, particularly the Gatewatch. Thanks!