Expert: Mark Thomas - 8/8/2011

Question
I have (for quite sometime) wanted to build a computer. Now I have a chance! I've been doing quite a bit of research and have put together a list of the items I intend to use. I use the computer many times throughout the day. I don't game just mainly surfing, downloading, view videos on t.v. through computer. . Many times I will have multiple programs open and downloads will be taking place and it's very slow! I have a Dell dimension 3100 right now. Needless to say time to upgrade. I do want one that will exceeds my needs while staying around $500. I also need to get Windows 7. Perhaps you can review the items listed and let me know what you think. Compatibility, for the cost, fitting for needs, etc. Thank you so much for your insight!

Processor         114.82
AMD CPU HDZ955FBGMBOX Phenom II X4 955 Black Edition 3.2GHz AM3 125W

CPU fan      27.24
Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus 120mm Sleeve  

Memory          39.00
G.Skill Ripjaws F3-12800CL9D-4GBRL - Memory - 4 GB : 2 x 2 GB - DIMM 240-pin - DDR3 - 1600 MHz / PC3-12800 - CL9 - 1.5 V - unbuffered - non-ECC

Power supply    118.99
XFX XXX Edition 650 Watt

Motherboard      99.99
ASUS Socket AM3/AMD 880G/SATA3&USB3.0/Hybrid CrossFireX/A&V&GbE/Micro ATX

Case          49.99     
SilverStone ATX/Micro ATX

dvd drive        28.58
Sony LightScribe 24X SATA Internal

Hard drive       59.99
Samsung Desktop Class Spinpoint F3 1 TB SATA 3.0 Gb-s 32 MB Cache 3.5-Inch Internal Bare

Answer
Hello Chris

Thanks for your question to AllExperts, sorry your question has been hanging about in the "pool" for a while. I have just reactivated my expertise after a lay-ff and glad to help you.

I a short sentence , the specifications that you have given are well up to the job you require, although the prices do rather appear to be quite high ( Negotiate...negotiate , all manufacturers are ready or should be to bargain with you in these days of over production and shrinking markets).

You have not indicated your Graphics car , but I have a personal preference for NVidia who have always had the technology nailed , and always have the edge over ATI who play catchup.

Get the very highest priced highest spec card you can, even if it means extra cooling figurations because it is this that ultimately will future proof you.

Hope that helps you
Regards Mark

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