Hardware upgrade (finally!)

nzdbox · 12-04-2005, 12:37 PM

Ok people, after waiting about 4 years, I'm finally getting the upgrade I've been itching for ^^

Problem is, I don't really know what to get.
SO, I checked newegg out a bit, to see what they are offering, user reviews, and such.

For now, what I'm trying to get is:
a new vid card
a new mobo
a new processor (AMD)
and RAM to go with it

I think it's best to take a PCI express system as I'm doing this.

As a video card, I was looking at the GeForce 6800 with 256 mb RAM (PCI Express). I can't spend too much on video cards (like $200 to $250, maybe a couple more max if it's really worthwile). Any other hints on what to take? I've always used nVidia so far, but I've heard many good things about ATI, so.. just wondering.

As a processor, I was looking at one of AMD's San Diego chips, like this one. The reviews made it sound like a thumb-upper, but I really don't know much about hardware these days.

As a mobo I don't really know. Any hints?
RAM I also don't know what brand to take. I was thinking about 1 GB (or is it too little?)

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. If I get enough feedback, I'll be ordering the system tonight

JonnyW@dd · 12-04-2005, 12:44 PM

whats your budget?

and I could be wrong but i think there is not really a need to go PCIe at the moment unless you are just tryin to get ahead of the game

I would also (horsepower would agree) go intel.

Much more stable

nzdbox · 12-04-2005, 12:52 PM

Budget.. that's a tricky question. I tried asking my father to give me an approximate value, but he won't. A few nights ago, we were looking at some pre-built computers (from Dell *cough* *cough*,) and he told me that he would want to spend like $800 for a new computer, meaning a complete computer.
Since right now we're only getting the bare necessities for the moment (later on we will upgrade the case and the CD and DVD drives; I'll be getting the new sound card as soon as Creative releases it ^^), I'm thinking he means about $600 for the whole package.
Taking off the video card, it's about $400 or so for mobo, processor and RAM; maybe more, maybe less.

EDIT: oh and about AMD/Intel, I don't really care that much, this system I'm using right now is AMD, as was the last one I had, and that new Hyper Transport technology seems pretty wicked to my eyes.

ASH...HOUSEWARES · 12-04-2005, 01:05 PM

try this link 4 mobo processer combo
http://www.partspc.com/ProductDetail...1&ProdID=11209

nzdbox · 12-04-2005, 01:09 PM

One thing I forgot to mention that came to my mind while reading Ash's reply (thanks by the way):

I can only get parts from sites that ship to APO (military), since I live in Germany.

Smurf · 12-04-2005, 03:23 PM

I've not built both AMD and Intel, and Intel mobos are certainly superior in all ways, but I'd avoid their processors, so, I'd go AMD. (Brother got a Socket 478 Prescott and adventually burnt up the VGA. Whew that thing was hot) Hopefully, you can get an AMD X2 3800+. For a graphics card, I'll let that last. RAM, right now I'm building an AMD comp for a friend and using Corsair XMS RAM. Not pro or anything and it costs 6 bucks more than Kingston ValueRAM. Also, go for PCI_Ex. New Video cards don't come in AGP, so you'll need to replace your mobo shortly, so, not a wise more. Graphics.... Hmmm, I'd say X800GT or 6800GT/6800GS.

Drayu · 12-04-2005, 04:50 PM

Try this link, it is a GREAT deal with a great mobo and video card!!!!!

http://www.zipzoomfly.com/jsp/Produc...=322728&ps=ho4

Drayu · 12-05-2005, 10:39 AM

darn...sorry man....I just looked to see if they ship to APO, and they don't. can't have someone at home get it for you and then send it?

nzdbox · 12-05-2005, 11:31 AM

It would be a huge hassle, but it could be done. They would have to ship it to my grandparents up in ND, but since both of them aren't faring really that well health-wise nowadays I doubt that's a good choice.

EDIT: by the way, that looks like a very nice combo.. thanks for posting it anyway, Drayu.

My father is still looking around at mwave.com. He still thinks he can find the best offers there... oh well.

GorroXXII · 12-05-2005, 12:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nzdbox

It would be a huge hassle, but it could be done. They would have to ship it to my grandparents up in ND, but since both of them aren't faring really that well health-wise nowadays I doubt that's a good choice.

EDIT: by the way, that looks like a very nice combo.. thanks for posting it anyway, Drayu.

My father is still looking around at mwave.com. He still thinks he can find the best offers there... oh well.

I bought it myself! witha 3700AMD Processor, now I patiently wait, it is a great deal NZD, I have been shopping for a looooong time.