Building a new computer (help)

Nedim · 07-28-2011, 07:38 PM

Hey guys
I want to build my own computer, and I have never done it before. Recently I upgraded my stock computer and put in a new video card (MSI 460 gtx Cyclone) and a thermaltake 850W power supply.

I want to order a new case, motherboard, and possibly a new processor (my current one is AMD Phenom x4 3.0ghz)

I want to do SLI as well so should i get another MSI card or something else?

The 460 clyclone is a pretty thick card, which motherboard should i get so that i can put 2 of them?

Also, what kind of a fan should i get to keep everything cool?

Thanks

UltimateBMW · 07-29-2011, 09:43 AM

Your options are endless.

I recommend reading reviews on the mobo. And looking at hardforums.com for general info and hidden customer reviews.

Otherwise, your general setup should probably be an i5 2500k, on a LGA 1155 socket mobo with a P67 chipset or X68. Most mobo's support SLI and while spacing isnt always the same between brands I don't think that will be a big issue to worry about. You will also inevitably need new ram if you are going up to a DDR3 mobo. In which case the sweet spot is 8GB of DDR3 1600 (PC 12800) ram. Top brands are G.Skill, Corsair/Kingston, and Crucial.

That should help get you started.

But here are some things to be aware of for upcoming tech.

Intel will release it's new Ivy Bridge chips in Q1 2012, this will bring with it a new chipset (X79) and a new high end socket on the mobo (LGA 2011). These new intel chips will be a major step forward, and will use Tri-gate transistors (3D transistors). Also, AMD should be releasing a new line of Graphics card in September with nVidia following shortly thereafter in late Q4 or early Q1 2012 with their next gen product lineup. And lastly, with the new intel chipset and new graphics cards will come full adoption of PCI-E 3.0, USB 3.0, and the new Thunderbolt transfer medium from Intel.

So I personally am waiting to build a new machine until LGA 2011, and PCI-E3.0 are out on the main market. Which won't be too much longer.

UltimateBMW · 07-29-2011, 09:46 AM

One other thing, generally when using SLI you will want to use 2 of the same card (type and brand). This isn't to say that using 2 different cards isn't possible or appropriete but sometimes they can do wierd things and not get along that well.

Here is a sample build I made off NewEgg:

Nedim · 07-29-2011, 10:52 AM

Here is what i have so far.

processor: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16819115072

cards: MSI 460gtx cyclone

motherboard: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813130606

Ram: using ram from my existing computer (8g)

Power supply: thermaltake 850W http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Thermalt...0850&cp=1&lp=1
(not sure if its good enough)

And I need a good case, open to recommendations

with all the new stuff coming out later can i just switch out my processor and the cards on the MSI board?

And i can go with a more expensive setup, my budget is around $1000

ragingclue · 07-29-2011, 11:51 AM

About the RAM, what is your "existing" RAM. This may be an area where you'll have to upgrade. Is your existing RAM DDR3? What are its supported freqs and timings? Do you know of any issues with that Mobo and certain types of RAM? Mobos I have used in the past were tempermental with certain manufacturers or certain chips, so I always check for that now.

RAM is a pretty inexpensive part of a rig build, so it's always best to make sure you do pay attention to it and don't skimp.

Also, the overclock.net forums have a proposed build subforum, and build logs and stuff.... There's a lot of good information there about what builds are great ideas (to include bang for the buck and unforeseen compatibility issues). Check it out if you get a chance.

Nedim · 07-29-2011, 12:10 PM

Thanks i will check out that website

Here is what i have for ram
Ram: x4 =8g
Installed Enabled Size 2.00 GB
Form Factor DIMM
Frequency 1.3 GHz
Slot DIMM1
Manufacturer Micron
Type
Type Details -
Enabled Size 2.00 GB
Total Bit Width 64 b
Data Bit Width 64 b

UltimateBMW · 07-29-2011, 12:50 PM

CPU's and their socket are mutually exclusive since the number of pins and geometry changes.

PCI-E 3.0 will be backwards compatible however with the current PCI-E 2.0.

Basically, your GPU will work but it won't get the benefit of it. Your proposed CPU will not work with a newer LGA 2011 socket mobo. The CPU posted is a LGA 1155 only. Can't answer the RAM without at least the PC number.

positiveions · 07-30-2011, 06:52 PM

i remember those days; building endless computers for people.
Good luck with the build. It is not too difficult.

Nedim · 07-30-2011, 07:08 PM

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813131730
I think i will be going with this motherboard...
just a quick question.
Since i am swaping my old hard drive into the new computer, windows 7 will boot up right?

UltimateBMW · 07-30-2011, 08:09 PM

Looks fine to me. A little on the higher price side though, if you are ok with that. I don't see an issue with running your old harddrive. What type of connection did it use? Did you keep it de-fragged regularly? Any virus issues?

I typically use the point of a new build as a 'spring cleaning' by getting a brand new fresh harddrive with a fresh install of my OS on it. As long as you keep your old drive around to reference the files, the choice is really up to you.

Nedim · 07-31-2011, 03:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by UltimateBMW

Looks fine to me. A little on the higher price side though, if you are ok with that. I don't see an issue with running your old harddrive. What type of connection did it use? Did you keep it de-fragged regularly? Any virus issues?

I typically use the point of a new build as a 'spring cleaning' by getting a brand new fresh harddrive with a fresh install of my OS on it. As long as you keep your old drive around to reference the files, the choice is really up to you.

I dont know what connection it is, because i dont know much about computers. And yeah, the computer is defraged regularly. Will have to scan for viruses and double check. I dont really understand the thing with the SSD and how to transfer the OS to it so it boots faster..dont really need that though

Nedim · 08-01-2011, 12:54 AM

Here it is... http://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wi.../2Z5VTQS82FTCO
It took a week or so of researching and stuff.
Let me know if theres something i should change.

UltimateBMW · 08-01-2011, 11:18 AM

Not too bad. I have a few questions though.

First, you have 2 different sets of Ram in your list. Not sure you'll need 16gb, it wouldn't hurt, but you could get away with only having 8gb in 2sticks. I'd also buy all the same type of ram, and not 2 different brands if you wanted more.

Secondly, what helped you choose that mobo? I've never been a big fan of the Fatal1ty branded products, and it is a bit pricey. There are some other options from AsRock that are better priced. It also is a p67 chipset. I've seen some z68 for less $. Here are 2 from AsRock.
$185:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813157250
$160:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813157229

On the graphics card, I think $200+ is a bit high for a GTX460. You could get a GTX560 for $190ish.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814130661

A GTX560ti would be about $30 more if you price shop for it a bit. I haven't taken the time to read any compatibility reviews on any of these components. If your previous component choices were based on that then it might not be bad to stick with that. But your graphics card shouldn't have any real compatibility problems.

Nedim · 08-01-2011, 03:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by UltimateBMW

Not too bad. I have a few questions though.

First, you have 2 different sets of Ram in your list. Not sure you'll need 16gb, it wouldn't hurt, but you could get away with only having 8gb in 2sticks. I'd also buy all the same type of ram, and not 2 different brands if you wanted more.

Secondly, what helped you choose that mobo? I've never been a big fan of the Fatal1ty branded products, and it is a bit pricey. There are some other options from AsRock that are better priced. It also is a p67 chipset. I've seen some x67 for less $. Here are 2 from AsRock.
$185:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813157250
$160:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813157229

On the graphics card, I think $200+ is a bit high for a GTX460. You could get a GTX560 for $190ish.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814130661

A GTX560ti would be about $30 more if you price shop for it a bit. I haven't taken the time to read any compatibility reviews on any of these components. If your previous component choices were based on that then it might not be bad to stick with that. But your graphics card shouldn't have any real compatibility problems.

there is 2 different ram because im not sure which to get.
i just think the motherboard looks really nice lol
and im thinking about getting the 580 card. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814130587

UltimateBMW · 08-01-2011, 04:47 PM

I just took a look at the RAM, I'd say go with the G.skill.

Here is the same stick on newegg, with a $20 promotion price cut. Pretty nice.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16820231445

The G.skill has better timing and with that promotion seems to nudge it over the top.

KGB7 · 08-01-2011, 04:57 PM

You want a mobo with P67 chipset, NOT Z68.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813131703

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813128478

UltimateBMW · 08-01-2011, 05:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KGB7

You want a mobo with P67 chipset, NOT Z68.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813131703

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813128478

Can you elaborate as to why you think so?

KGB7 · 08-01-2011, 05:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by UltimateBMW

Can you elaborate as to why you think so?

Z68 is the enthusiast chipset for LGA 1155. It pretty much has all the functionality of P67 + some.

Here is a decent review.
http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/...hing,2888.html

Because he has no use for the +some. He wont be using GPU that is built in to CPU, unless he is not using a discrete VGA.

Nedim
Its always best to perform a fresh install of Windows when you are switching motherboards.

Nedim · 08-01-2011, 05:20 PM

Can you explain the difference of the board? i plan on getting the nvidia 580 card now
instead of the msi 460 sli

UltimateBMW · 08-01-2011, 05:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KGB7

Because he has no use for the +some. He wont be using GPU that is built in to CPU, unless he is not using a discrete VGA.

Nedim
Its always best to perform a fresh install of Windows when you are switching motherboards.

I would agree, if the prices weren't already so comparable.

At this point, I don't think it really matters which one he chooses.

UltimateBMW · 08-01-2011, 05:25 PM

From what I remember, the only big differences are the z68's support for integrated graphics, and a SSD booster. Neither of which you need, but alternative mobo's aren't that much cheaper than what you were looking at.

UltimateBMW · 08-01-2011, 05:29 PM

This seems like a decent price point lower, if going with P67.
$160
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813157229
Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/ASRock-P67-Ext...2234258&sr=1-1

Did you have any specific preference to your board selection KGB?

07-28-2011, 07:38 PM	#1
Nedim Captain 72 Rep 716 Posts Drives: 2007 BMW 335i Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Des Moines, IA iTrader: (4)	Building a new computer (help) Hey guys I want to build my own computer, and I have never done it before. Recently I upgraded my stock computer and put in a new video card (MSI 460 gtx Cyclone) and a thermaltake 850W power supply. I want to order a new case, motherboard, and possibly a new processor (my current one is AMD Phenom x4 3.0ghz) I want to do SLI as well so should i get another MSI card or something else? The 460 clyclone is a pretty thick card, which motherboard should i get so that i can put 2 of them? Also, what kind of a fan should i get to keep everything cool? Thanks
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07-29-2011, 09:43 AM	#2
UltimateBMW Brigadier General 425 Rep 3,287 Posts Drives: MP4 Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: South iTrader: (0)	Your options are endless. I recommend reading reviews on the mobo. And looking at hardforums.com for general info and hidden customer reviews. Otherwise, your general setup should probably be an i5 2500k, on a LGA 1155 socket mobo with a P67 chipset or X68. Most mobo's support SLI and while spacing isnt always the same between brands I don't think that will be a big issue to worry about. You will also inevitably need new ram if you are going up to a DDR3 mobo. In which case the sweet spot is 8GB of DDR3 1600 (PC 12800) ram. Top brands are G.Skill, Corsair/Kingston, and Crucial. That should help get you started. But here are some things to be aware of for upcoming tech. Intel will release it's new Ivy Bridge chips in Q1 2012, this will bring with it a new chipset (X79) and a new high end socket on the mobo (LGA 2011). These new intel chips will be a major step forward, and will use Tri-gate transistors (3D transistors). Also, AMD should be releasing a new line of Graphics card in September with nVidia following shortly thereafter in late Q4 or early Q1 2012 with their next gen product lineup. And lastly, with the new intel chipset and new graphics cards will come full adoption of PCI-E 3.0, USB 3.0, and the new Thunderbolt transfer medium from Intel. So I personally am waiting to build a new machine until LGA 2011, and PCI-E3.0 are out on the main market. Which won't be too much longer. __________________
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07-29-2011, 09:46 AM	#3
UltimateBMW Brigadier General 425 Rep 3,287 Posts Drives: MP4 Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: South iTrader: (0)	One other thing, generally when using SLI you will want to use 2 of the same card (type and brand). This isn't to say that using 2 different cards isn't possible or appropriete but sometimes they can do wierd things and not get along that well. Here is a sample build I made off NewEgg: __________________ Last edited by UltimateBMW; 07-29-2011 at 09:53 AM..
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07-29-2011, 10:52 AM	#4
Nedim Captain 72 Rep 716 Posts Drives: 2007 BMW 335i Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Des Moines, IA iTrader: (4)	Here is what i have so far. processor: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16819115072 cards: MSI 460gtx cyclone motherboard: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813130606 Ram: using ram from my existing computer (8g) Power supply: thermaltake 850W http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Thermalt...0850&cp=1&lp=1 (not sure if its good enough) And I need a good case, open to recommendations with all the new stuff coming out later can i just switch out my processor and the cards on the MSI board? And i can go with a more expensive setup, my budget is around $1000
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07-29-2011, 11:51 AM	#5
ragingclue One cam is enough 136 Rep 6,801 Posts Drives: VF Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: mulletville iTrader: (1)	About the RAM, what is your "existing" RAM. This may be an area where you'll have to upgrade. Is your existing RAM DDR3? What are its supported freqs and timings? Do you know of any issues with that Mobo and certain types of RAM? Mobos I have used in the past were tempermental with certain manufacturers or certain chips, so I always check for that now. RAM is a pretty inexpensive part of a rig build, so it's always best to make sure you do pay attention to it and don't skimp. Also, the overclock.net forums have a proposed build subforum, and build logs and stuff.... There's a lot of good information there about what builds are great ideas (to include bang for the buck and unforeseen compatibility issues). Check it out if you get a chance.
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07-29-2011, 12:10 PM	#6
Nedim Captain 72 Rep 716 Posts Drives: 2007 BMW 335i Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Des Moines, IA iTrader: (4)	Thanks i will check out that website Here is what i have for ram Ram: x4 =8g Installed Enabled Size 2.00 GB Form Factor DIMM Frequency 1.3 GHz Slot DIMM1 Manufacturer Micron Type Type Details - Enabled Size 2.00 GB Total Bit Width 64 b Data Bit Width 64 b
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07-29-2011, 12:50 PM	#7
UltimateBMW Brigadier General 425 Rep 3,287 Posts Drives: MP4 Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: South iTrader: (0)	CPU's and their socket are mutually exclusive since the number of pins and geometry changes. PCI-E 3.0 will be backwards compatible however with the current PCI-E 2.0. Basically, your GPU will work but it won't get the benefit of it. Your proposed CPU will not work with a newer LGA 2011 socket mobo. The CPU posted is a LGA 1155 only. Can't answer the RAM without at least the PC number. __________________
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07-30-2011, 06:52 PM	#8
positiveions Lieutenant General 978 Rep 11,724 Posts Drives: 19 Tacoma, 16 Golf wagon Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Upland, CA iTrader: (2) Garage List 2019 Toyota Tacoma [0.00] 2016 VW Golf Sports ... [0.00] 1998 BMW M3 [0.00] 1990 BMW 325is [0.00]	i remember those days; building endless computers for people. Good luck with the build. It is not too difficult.
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07-30-2011, 07:08 PM	#9
Nedim Captain 72 Rep 716 Posts Drives: 2007 BMW 335i Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Des Moines, IA iTrader: (4)	http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813131730 I think i will be going with this motherboard... just a quick question. Since i am swaping my old hard drive into the new computer, windows 7 will boot up right?
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07-30-2011, 08:09 PM	#10
UltimateBMW Brigadier General 425 Rep 3,287 Posts Drives: MP4 Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: South iTrader: (0)	Looks fine to me. A little on the higher price side though, if you are ok with that. I don't see an issue with running your old harddrive. What type of connection did it use? Did you keep it de-fragged regularly? Any virus issues? I typically use the point of a new build as a 'spring cleaning' by getting a brand new fresh harddrive with a fresh install of my OS on it. As long as you keep your old drive around to reference the files, the choice is really up to you. __________________
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08-01-2011, 12:54 AM	#12
Nedim Captain 72 Rep 716 Posts Drives: 2007 BMW 335i Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Des Moines, IA iTrader: (4)	Here it is... http://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wi.../2Z5VTQS82FTCO It took a week or so of researching and stuff. Let me know if theres something i should change.
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08-01-2011, 11:18 AM	#13
UltimateBMW Brigadier General 425 Rep 3,287 Posts Drives: MP4 Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: South iTrader: (0)	Not too bad. I have a few questions though. First, you have 2 different sets of Ram in your list. Not sure you'll need 16gb, it wouldn't hurt, but you could get away with only having 8gb in 2sticks. I'd also buy all the same type of ram, and not 2 different brands if you wanted more. Secondly, what helped you choose that mobo? I've never been a big fan of the Fatal1ty branded products, and it is a bit pricey. There are some other options from AsRock that are better priced. It also is a p67 chipset. I've seen some z68 for less $. Here are 2 from AsRock. $185: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813157250 $160: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813157229 On the graphics card, I think $200+ is a bit high for a GTX460. You could get a GTX560 for $190ish. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814130661 A GTX560ti would be about $30 more if you price shop for it a bit. I haven't taken the time to read any compatibility reviews on any of these components. If your previous component choices were based on that then it might not be bad to stick with that. But your graphics card shouldn't have any real compatibility problems. __________________ Last edited by UltimateBMW; 08-01-2011 at 05:06 PM.. Reason: Corrected wrongly named chipset.
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08-01-2011, 04:47 PM	#15
UltimateBMW Brigadier General 425 Rep 3,287 Posts Drives: MP4 Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: South iTrader: (0)	I just took a look at the RAM, I'd say go with the G.skill. Here is the same stick on newegg, with a $20 promotion price cut. Pretty nice. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16820231445 The G.skill has better timing and with that promotion seems to nudge it over the top. __________________
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08-01-2011, 04:57 PM	#16
KGB7 Crazy Russian Bastard 32 Rep 819 Posts Drives: 01 740i sport Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: Siberian Prison iTrader: (0)	You want a mobo with P67 chipset, NOT Z68. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813131703 http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813128478 __________________ B M W
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08-01-2011, 05:20 PM	#19
Nedim Captain 72 Rep 716 Posts Drives: 2007 BMW 335i Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Des Moines, IA iTrader: (4)	Can you explain the difference of the board? i plan on getting the nvidia 580 card now instead of the msi 460 sli
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08-01-2011, 05:25 PM	#21
UltimateBMW Brigadier General 425 Rep 3,287 Posts Drives: MP4 Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: South iTrader: (0)	From what I remember, the only big differences are the z68's support for integrated graphics, and a SSD booster. Neither of which you need, but alternative mobo's aren't that much cheaper than what you were looking at. __________________
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08-01-2011, 05:29 PM	#22
UltimateBMW Brigadier General 425 Rep 3,287 Posts Drives: MP4 Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: South iTrader: (0)	This seems like a decent price point lower, if going with P67. $160 http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813157229 Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/ASRock-P67-Ext...2234258&sr=1-1 Did you have any specific preference to your board selection KGB? __________________
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