New System (First Build)

[rsfx]

Hey. First time build here. I've tinkered with pre-built systems and replaced random parts on my older machines, but this is my first complete build. I've already purchased my parts but I'd like any tips or input. Here we go...

1. What YOUR PC will be used for. That means what types of tasks you'll be performing.

Pretty much everything from gaming to school work to photo/video editing.

2. What YOUR budget is. A price range is acceptable as long as it's not more than a 20% spread

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3. What country YOU will be buying YOUR parts from.

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4. IF YOU have a brand preference. That means, are you an Intel-Fanboy, AMD-Fanboy, ATI-Fanboy, nVidia-Fanboy, Seagate-Fanboy, WD-Fanboy, etc, etc, etc, you get the picture.

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5. If YOU intend on using any of YOUR current parts, and if so, what those parts are.

CASE ANTEC|NINE HUNDRED BK RT (Antec 900)
CPU INTEL|C2D E6850 3G 65N 4M R (E6850)
MNTR SMUNG|LCD 22" 2MS 226BW R (Syncmaster 22")
VGA ASUS EN8800GT TOP/G/HTDP/512M R (8800GT)
SNDCD CREATIVE|70SB073A00000 RT (XtremeGamer)
MEM 2Gx2|GSK F2-6400CL5D-4GBPQ (G.Skill 2x2 Gb PC2-6400 CL5-5-5-15)
MB ABIT IP35 Pro 775 (Abit IP35 Pro)
DVD BURN SAMSUNG|SH-S202G 20X IDE
HD 500G|SAMG 7K 16M SATA2
PSU CORSAIR|CMPSU-620HX RT

6. IF YOU have searched and/or read similar threads.

Been reading around this and other forums on varying topics regarding my chosen components.

7. IF YOU plan on overclocking or run the system at default speeds.

Yes, to the extent that the system is stable on factory cooling.

 

[DSF]

What kind of tips or input?

I'd have recommended you not buy the E6850, but it's a little late for that.

 

[rsfx]

Haha yeah I had heard from some others to avoid the E6850 and to go for an overclocked E6750 or Q6600. But I don't regret it too much.

Some random things off the top of my head include...

-What I can expect performance-wise without overclocking and with overclocking, and how far I can overclock without the need to purchase additional cooling solutions.
-Operating system (between XP and Vista). I realize that XP does not support 4 Gb of RAM, but if the performance gains over Vista are significant enough, I'll just wait for further optimization in Vista and stick it out with lesser RAM.
-Typical problems with any components (for example, I've discovered Samsung has several models of 226BW's, some with less-than-desirable performance, and the IP35 may suffer from slight temperature problems that can be remedied with a simple modification)
-Case management (wiring/cooling/simple modifications)

etc...

Any help at all is appreciated. =]

 

[DSF]

First, take your time and build your system when you're alert & focused, and build in a place where you will be comfortable working. There's nothing worse than an aching back or cramped neck halfway through the process. If you get frustrated with something, walk away for a few minutes and then come back. (Systems go together pretty easily these days, so that shouldn't really be an issue, but just in case.)

Install the CPU, heatsink and RAM onto the motherboard before you put it into the case. Also, it wouldn't be a bad idea to wire up the motherboard outside the case on a non-conductive surface like a cardboard box, install a video card and make sure everything powers on fine.

Double-check the front panel wiring. Do it right the first time and you won't have to mess with those annoying little headers again.

By the way...I don't see one listed, but you did buy a power supply, right?

 

[rsfx]

Sorry, yes I did, a Corsair 620 W power supply with modular cables.

 

[chuckm]

Nice rig, like was already suggested, test B4 you put it in the case and just take your time and enjoy. When you mount the MB BE SURE to us the standoffs so it doesn't short out on the tray. Good luck and Happy New Year.

 

[CDC Mail Guy]

I like the case because I have it, but as a warning, the bottom mount PSU can be a royal PITA for the 4 pin connector to the motherboard. Also, as the hard drives sit directly across from the PSU, it can get rather cluttered in that area. Other than that, I LOVE the case, and absolutely love the cooling it provides