Building a new machine - SEE POASTER'S HAMMER

[technique]

ATI 9600XT 159.00 i heard it was alot better to get the SE instead of the XP

[Roopert]

Ok Guys/Gals here it is.



 Albatron K8T800 Chipset Motherboard for AMD Socket 754 CPU, Model "K8X800 ProII" -RETAIL
Specifications:
Supported CPU: Socket 754 AMD Athlon64 Processors
Chipset: VIA K8T800 + VT8237
FSB: 800MHz
RAM: 3x DIMM for DDR400/333/266 Max 3GB
IDE: 2x UltraDMA 66/100/133 up to 4 Devices
Slots: 1x AGP 8X, 6x PCI
Ports: 2xPS2,1xCOM,1xLPT,1xLAN,8xUSB2.0(Rear 2),Audio Ports
Onboard Audio: VIA VT1720 Evny 24PT Hardware 7.1-Channel Audio
Onboard LAN: 3Com 3C940 Gigabit Ethernet
Onboard SATA/RAID: 2x Serial ATA 150, SATA RAID 0/1
Onboard 1394: VIA VT6307, 2 ports
Form Factor: ATX more info-> N82E16813170114  $125.00 $125.00  


   ATI RADEON 9800PRO Video Card, 128MB DDR, 256-bit, DVI/TV-Out, 8X AGP -RETAIL
Specifications:
Chipset/Core Speed: RADEON 9800PRO/380MHz
Memory/Effective Speed: 128MB DDR/680MHz
BUS: AGP 1X/2X/4X/8X
Ports: VGA Out(15 Pin D-Sub)+TV-Out(S-Video Out)+DVI connector
Support 3D API: DirectX?9, OpenGL?2.0
Cable/Accessories: 2 Adapters, 2 Cables, Driver CD, Manual
Max Resolution@32bit Color: 2048X1536@85Hz
Retail Box (See pics for details) more info-> N82E16814102286  $298.00 $298.00  


   AMD Athlon 64 3200+, 1MB L2 Cache, The Only 64-bit Windows Compatible Processor - Retail
Specification
Model: AMD Athlon 64 3200+
Core: ClawHammer
Operating Frequency: 2.0GHz
FSB: Integrated int chip
Cache: L1/64K+64K; L2/1024K
Voltage: 1.5V
Process: 0.13Micron
Socket: Socket 754
Multimedia Instruction: MMX, SSE, SSE2, 3DNOW!, 3DNOW!+
Packaging: Retail Box (Heatsink and Fan included) more info-> N82E16819103416  $282.00 $282.00  


   Corsair XMS Extreme Memory Speed Series, Low Latency (Twin Pack) 184 Pin 1GB(512MBx2) DDR PC-3200 - Retail
Specification
Manufacturer: Corsair
Speed: DDR400(PC3200)
Type: 184 Pin DDR SDRAM
Error Checking: Non-ECC
Registered/Unbuffered: Unbuffered
Cas Latency: 2-3-2-6 T1
Bandwidth: 3.2GB/s
Organization: two 64M x 64 -Bit
Special Features: Low Latency with Platinum Heat Spreader
Warranty: Lifetime more info-> N82E16820145436  $250.00 $250.00  


   Seagate 120GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive, Model ST3120026AS, OEM
Specifications:
Capacity: 120GB
Average Seek Time: 8.5 ms
Buffer: 8MB
Rotational Speed: 7200 RPM
Interface: Serial ATA
Features: 350 Gs non-op shock, 3D Defense System
Manufacturer Warranty: 1 year
Remark: OEM, Requires additional Power adapter more info-> N82E16822148017  $104.00 $104.00  


   Samsung Beige 52X24X52X16 CD-RW/DVD Combo Drive , Model SM-352BRNS, Retail Box
Specifications:
Write Speed: 52X CD-R, 24X CD-RW
Read Speed: 52X CD-ROM, 16X DVD-ROM
Interface: Internal IDE/ATAPI
Buffer: 8MB
OS Support: Windows 98SE/2000, ME, and XP
Features: Reduces noise and vibration with DVA (Dynamic Vibration Absorber)
Remark: Retail box (see pics for details) more info-> N82E16827151024  $56.00 $56.00  


   Dynatron System Exhaust Blower fit to PCI Slot,Model:DB1206SP.
Features:
Compatibility: PCI Slot
Dimensions: 111.2x90.4x21.6(mm)
Bearing Type: Sleeve
Nominal Speed(RPM): 2800
Max Air Flow:(CFM):10.5
Max Pressure: 0.3 Inch-H2O
Rated Voltage: 12V DC
Connector: 4-Pin
Noise(dBA): 28 more info-> N82E16835888602  $3.99 $3.99  


   Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition with Service Pack SP1a - OEM Designed exclusively for home computing. From digital photos, music, and video to building a home network, Windows XP Home Edition brings you into the digital age with ease. Built on the solid foundation of Windows 2000, Windows XP Home Edition also sets the new standard in efficient and dependable computing.
*Must be Purchased with Hardware!!* more info-> N82E16837102141  $91.00 $91.00  




Subtotal ? $1,209.99


I still have 300.00 left over that I can use but I am not sure what to put it towards.

I could get a DVD burner but would like to center on system performance for now. I'll get a burner next month.


I could bump up to a 64 3400+ but the Albatron mobo reveiws have this as a cake walk with the 3200+ when overclocking.

Could get the 256meg model of the ATI 9800, but have heard that systems can't use the extra ram beyond 128.

Could get another HD but not sure what performance benifits I would get in a raid configuration.

Could get more RAM.

Let me know and thank you!

[query]

Why are you going to saddle high-end components with a second-rate board from a third-tier manufacturer?

[Roopert]

From the reviews the Albatron did well and had the onbaird audio set I was looking for.

Is Albatron seen as second rate by the indusrty?

Thanks for the heads up.

[Mark H]

For the AMD 64 chips, the MSI board is rated very well and Asus always has a good product. I would not worry about the sound not being 100% hardware. It would be better to get a good MOBO and then add a sound card if you don't like the sound on the board you choose.

Mark H

[Whizbang]

Would it be safe to assume that if "codec" was not included in the onboard audio it would be non-software?

I see a mobo with onboard audio listed as: 6-Channel AC97 Audio. No codec listed here.

AC stands for Audio Codec.  These acronyms will drive you nuts.  :P

It is an integrated chip that is set to the specifications of Intel Corp. who specified certain parameters to be met and agreed to by mainboard manufacturers.  CODEC 2.2 was updated to 2.3, and is, as far as I know the current standard.  What the chip does is to define certain audio functions to be integrated into one compact integrated chip for mass production so that mainboard sound can be included by each mainboard manufacturer inexpensively.  It is a "bare bones" approach to audio that I like because I do not need sophisticated audio from two tweeters and a subwoofer.  You do now have the option of up to 6 channel surround audio on a chip.  If you want sound editing, oscilloscope graphic displays, ...etc, you would need to get a separate sound card,  Last I heard, a card from Creative Labs was the top rated at over $200.00.

Sound Blaster Audigy 2 ZS Platinum Pro

[Tranquility_Base]

lol u say u've got 200 extra bucks to spend? Get the sound card Whizbang told u about. That oughta do it. It might even cost more than 200. U might have to save up :D

I dont know why though. I mean, its like double the cost of a packed to the gills motherboard.

[Neon]

Tech Report just published a review of this board. It did okay, until they tried a mild overclock, at which time the board died. ::) Of course, there are no guarantees with overclocking, and it's hard to say whether one particular board had a problem, or if the entire product line would behave the same.

Albatron is known for making some pretty good video cards, mainly just ATI reference boards. They are a recent entrant into the U.S. motherboard market, and so far it seems like they are targeting the lower end of the market. I took a quick peek at several other reviews of the board ([H]ard|OCP and Hexus.net); most enthusiast sites don't like it because it is unstable when overclocked. Many argue that implies poorer long term stability.

[Roopert]

Here it is. My case has a 400wt ps.


   ANTEC 80mm Chrome Fan Guard -RETAIL
For 80mm fans. Whether you are making new fan mounts or modifying current fan mounts, these fan guards will help to keep your fingers from getting hurt when the fans are spinning
Chromed wire-formed grill
Size 100mm diagonal mounting holes distance (80mm)
2 Fan Guards per individual package
Retail pack See pics more info-> N82E16811999250  $3.99 $7.98  


   VANTEC Round Floppy drive cable, Booted, 3-connector, 24-Inch ( CLEAR ), Model "CBL-FDD24-CS" -RETAIL more info-> N82E16812103205  $3.99 $3.99  


   Antec 3 to 4 Pin Fan Power Adapter
Power a 3-pin fan with a standard 4-pin PSU power connector. more info-> N82E16812105007  $4.99 $4.99  


   ANTEC 3 Pin Fan Extension Cable
Extend 3-Pin fan cable length for greater versatility and large cases. more info-> N82E16812105009  $4.00 $8.00  


   CHAINTECH nForce3 150 Chipset Motherboard for AMD Socket 754 CPU, Model "ZNF3-150 ZENITH" -RETAIL
Specifications:
Supported CPU: AMD Socket 754 Athlon64 new generation Processors
Chipset: NVIDIA nForce3 150
FSB: Integrated into Processor type
RAM: 3x DIMM for DDR400/333/266 Max 2GB
IDE: 3x UltraDMA 66/100/133 up to 6 Devices
Slots: 1x AGP 4X/8X, 5x PCI, 1x CMR
Ports: 2xPS2,1xLPT,2xCOM,1xLAN,6xUSB2.0(Rear 2),Audio Ports
Onboard Audio: VIA ENVY 24PT 7.1 Channel Hardware Audio
Onboard LAN: Broadcom 10/100/1000Mbps Ethernet
Onboard SATA/RAID: 4x SATA 150 with RAID 0/1/5/10
Onboard 1394: VIA VT6306 supports 3 IEEE1394a ports
Form Factor: ATX more info-> N82E16813152031  $179.99 $179.99  


   ATI RADEON 9800PRO Video Card, 128MB DDR, 256-bit, DVI/TV-Out, 8X AGP -RETAIL
Specifications:
Chipset/Core Speed: RADEON 9800PRO/380MHz
Memory/Effective Speed: 128MB DDR/680MHz
BUS: AGP 1X/2X/4X/8X
Ports: VGA Out(15 Pin D-Sub)+TV-Out(S-Video Out)+DVI connector
Support 3D API: DirectX?9, OpenGL?2.0
Cable/Accessories: 2 Adapters, 2 Cables, Driver CD, Manual
Max Resolution@32bit Color: 2048X1536@85Hz
Retail Box (See pics for details) more info-> N82E16814102286  $298.00 $298.00  


   
AMD Athlon 64 3400+, 1MB L2 Cache, 64-bit Processor - Retail
Specification
Model: AMD Athlon 64 3400+
Core: ClawHammer
Operating Frequency: 2.2GHz
FSB: Integrated into chip
Cache: L1/64K+64K; L2/1MB
Voltage: 1.5V
Process: 0.13Micron
Socket: Socket 754
Multimedia Instruction: MMX, SSE, SSE2, 3DNOW!, 3DNOW!+
Packaging: Retail Box (Heatsink and Fan included) more info-> N82E16819103426  $429.00 $429.00  


   Corsair XMS Extreme Memory Speed Series, Low Latency (Twin Pack) 184 Pin 1GB(512MBx2) DDR PC-3200 - Retail
Specification
Manufacturer: Corsair
Speed: DDR400(PC3200)
Type: 184 Pin DDR SDRAM
Error Checking: Non-ECC
Registered/Unbuffered: Unbuffered
Cas Latency: 2-3-2-6 T1
Bandwidth: 3.2GB/s
Organization: two 64M x 64 -Bit
Special Features: Low Latency with Platinum Heat Spreader
Warranty: Lifetime more info-> N82E16820145436  $250.00 $250.00  


   Seagate 120GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive, Model ST3120026AS, OEM
Specifications:
Capacity: 120GB
Average Seek Time: 8.5 ms
Buffer: 8MB
Rotational Speed: 7200 RPM
Interface: Serial ATA
Features: 350 Gs non-op shock, 3D Defense System
Manufacturer Warranty: 1 year
Remark: OEM, Requires additional Power adapter more info-> N82E16822148017  $104.00 $104.00  


   Samsung Beige 52X24X52X16 CD-RW/DVD Combo Drive , Model SM-352BRNS, Retail Box
Specifications:
Write Speed: 52X CD-R, 24X CD-RW
Read Speed: 52X CD-ROM, 16X DVD-ROM
Interface: Internal IDE/ATAPI
Buffer: 8MB
OS Support: Windows 98SE/2000, ME, and XP
Features: Reduces noise and vibration with DVA (Dynamic Vibration Absorber)
Remark: Retail box (see pics for details) more info-> N82E16827151024  $55.75 $55.75  


   Antec All Clear Pro 80mm Double Ball Bearing Case fan,Retail.
Specification:
Compatibility: Case
Dimensions: 80mm
Bearing Type: Double Ball Bearing
Nominal Speed(RPM): 2600
Max Air Flow:(CFM): 34
Max Pressure: Unknown
Heat Sink Material: N/A
Rated Voltage: 12 V DC
Connector: 3 Pin and 4 Pin
Noise(dBA): 30 more info-> N82E16835129028  $6.99 $13.98  


   Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition with Service Pack SP1a - OEM Designed exclusively for home computing. From digital photos, music, and video to building a home network, Windows XP Home Edition brings you into the digital age with ease. Built on the solid foundation of Windows 2000, Windows XP Home Edition also sets the new standard in efficient and dependable computing.
*Must be Purchased with Hardware!!* more info-> N82E16837102141  $91.00 $91.00  




Subtotal ? $1,446.68  


The only thing I can think of is dropping to the 64 3200+ and buying an ATI 9800XT 256.

I'm going to drill holes in my super tower - 2 on the bottom (left side cover with no fans just grills) and 2 on top with grills and 80mm fans.











 

[Mark H]

If you are getting an AMD 3400+ 64 chip, a 400 watt power supply is a bare minimum. Some tests of this chip have indicated that higher capacity power supplies were needed to run the PC. Check out This URL for a review of the AMD 3400 chip. On the third page of the review, you will find the power requirements outlining that a good power supply with at least an honest 400 watts is needed for reliable performance.

As to the Radeon 9800XT 256, save your money and stay with the 128 MB of RAM model. Nothing can utilize the 128 megs, let alone 256 megs at the current time.

Also, check out the Panaflow fans instead of the Antec fans. Panaflos run very quiet, which facilitates a quieter computer.

Mark H

[Roopert]

Well, here it is. I should be able to order tomorrow or before Friday. This system is going to rock.

Mark -
I'm going to stick with the fans for the increased flow.  If they drive me insane I will replace them and you can say "told you so" :) Thank you for the heads up on the power supply and video card issues - took care of that - hehe.

The Total when I load it to my cart comes to 1450. Must be some auto discounts.



2   ANTEC 80mm Chrome Fan Guard -RETAIL
For 80mm fans. Whether you are making new fan mounts or modifying current fan mounts, these fan guards will help to keep your fingers from getting hurt when the fans are spinning
Chromed wire-formed grill
Size 100mm diagonal mounting holes distance (80mm)
2 Fan Guards per individual package
Retail pack See pics more info-> N82E16811999250  $3.99 $7.98  


   VANTEC Round Floppy drive cable, Booted, 3-connector, 24-Inch ( CLEAR ), Model "CBL-FDD24-CS" -RETAIL more info-> N82E16812103205  $3.99 $3.99  


   Antec 3 to 4 Pin Fan Power Adapter
Power a 3-pin fan with a standard 4-pin PSU power connector. more info-> N82E16812105007  $4.99 $4.99  


 2  ANTEC 3 Pin Fan Extension Cable
Extend 3-Pin fan cable length for greater versatility and large cases. more info-> N82E16812105009  $4.00 $8.00  


   CHAINTECH nForce3 150 Chipset Motherboard for AMD Socket 754 CPU, Model "ZNF3-150 ZENITH" -RETAIL
Specifications:
Supported CPU: AMD Socket 754 Athlon64 new generation Processors
Chipset: NVIDIA nForce3 150
FSB: Integrated into Processor type
RAM: 3x DIMM for DDR400/333/266 Max 2GB
IDE: 3x UltraDMA 66/100/133 up to 6 Devices
Slots: 1x AGP 4X/8X, 5x PCI, 1x CMR
Ports: 2xPS2,1xLPT,2xCOM,1xLAN,6xUSB2.0(Rear 2),Audio Ports
Onboard Audio: VIA ENVY 24PT 7.1 Channel Hardware Audio
Onboard LAN: Broadcom 10/100/1000Mbps Ethernet
Onboard SATA/RAID: 4x SATA 150 with RAID 0/1/5/10
Onboard 1394: VIA VT6306 supports 3 IEEE1394a ports
Form Factor: ATX more info-> N82E16813152031  $179.99 $179.99  


   ATI RADEON 9800PRO Video Card, 128MB DDR, 256-bit, DVI/TV-Out, 8X AGP -RETAIL
Specifications:
Chipset/Core Speed: RADEON 9800PRO/380MHz
Memory/Effective Speed: 128MB DDR/680MHz
BUS: AGP 1X/2X/4X/8X
Ports: VGA Out(15 Pin D-Sub)+TV-Out(S-Video Out)+DVI connector
Support 3D API: DirectX?9, OpenGL?2.0
Cable/Accessories: 2 Adapters, 2 Cables, Driver CD, Manual
Max Resolution@32bit Color: 2048X1536@85Hz
Retail Box (See pics for details) more info-> N82E16814102286  $298.00 $298.00  


   Antec 550W Power Supply, Model "TRUE550 EPS12V" -RETAIL
Specifications:
Type: EPS12V/ATX12V
Maximum Power: 550W
PFC: No
Power Good Signal: 100-500ms
Hold-up Time: 17ms min.
Efficiency: 68% min.
Over Voltage Protection: +5V trip point<+6.5V;+3.3V trip point<+4.1V;+12V trip point<+14.4V
Overload Protection: Latching Protection+5V @<47A;+3.3V @ <48A;+12V @ <18A
Input Voltage: 115 VAC / 230VAC
Input Frequency Range: 47Hz-63Hz
Input Current: 10A/6A
Output: +3.3V@32A;+5V@40A;-5V@0.5A;+12V@36A;-12V@1A;+5VSB@2A
MTBF: 80,000 hrs. @ 25?C
Approvals: UL, TUV, CB, VDE, FCC CLASS B, DEMKO, NEMKO, SEMKO, FIMCO more info-> N82E16817103918  $115.00 $115.00  


   
AMD Athlon 64 3400+, 1MB L2 Cache, 64-bit Processor - Retail
Specification
Model: AMD Athlon 64 3400+
Core: ClawHammer
Operating Frequency: 2.2GHz
FSB: Integrated into chip
Cache: L1/64K+64K; L2/1MB
Voltage: 1.5V
Process: 0.13Micron
Socket: Socket 754
Multimedia Instruction: MMX, SSE, SSE2, 3DNOW!, 3DNOW!+
Packaging: Retail Box (Heatsink and Fan included) more info-> N82E16819103426  $429.00 $429.00  


   Corsair XMS Extreme Memory Speed Series, Low Latency (Twin Pack) 184 Pin 1GB(512MBx2) DDR PC-3200 - Retail
Specification
Manufacturer: Corsair
Speed: DDR400(PC3200)
Type: 184 Pin DDR SDRAM
Error Checking: Non-ECC
Registered/Unbuffered: Unbuffered
Cas Latency: 2-3-2-6 T1
Bandwidth: 3.2GB/s
Organization: two 64M x 64 -Bit
Special Features: Low Latency with Platinum Heat Spreader
Warranty: Lifetime more info-> N82E16820145436  $250.00 $250.00  


   Seagate 120GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive, Model ST3120026AS, OEM
Specifications:
Capacity: 120GB
Average Seek Time: 8.5 ms
Buffer: 8MB
Rotational Speed: 7200 RPM
Interface: Serial ATA
Features: 350 Gs non-op shock, 3D Defense System
Manufacturer Warranty: 1 year
Remark: OEM, Requires additional Power adapter more info-> N82E16822148017  $97.00 $97.00  


   Samsung Beige 52X24X52X16 CD-RW/DVD Combo Drive , Model SM-352BRNS, Retail Box
Specifications:
Write Speed: 52X CD-R, 24X CD-RW
Read Speed: 52X CD-ROM, 16X DVD-ROM
Interface: Internal IDE/ATAPI
Buffer: 8MB
OS Support: Windows 98SE/2000, ME, and XP
Features: Reduces noise and vibration with DVA (Dynamic Vibration Absorber)
Remark: Retail box (see pics for details) more info-> N82E16827151024  $55.75 $55.75  


 2  Antec All Clear Pro 80mm Double Ball Bearing Case fan,Retail.
Specification:
Compatibility: Case
Dimensions: 80mm
Bearing Type: Double Ball Bearing
Nominal Speed(RPM): 2600
Max Air Flow:(CFM): 34
Max Pressure: Unknown
Heat Sink Material: N/A
Rated Voltage: 12 V DC
Connector: 3 Pin and 4 Pin
Noise(dBA): 30 more info-> N82E16835129028  $6.99 $13.98  


   Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition with Service Pack SP1a - OEM Designed exclusively for home computing. From digital photos, music, and video to building a home network, Windows XP Home Edition brings you into the digital age with ease. Built on the solid foundation of Windows 2000, Windows XP Home Edition also sets the new standard in efficient and dependable computing.
*Must be Purchased with Hardware!!* more info-> N82E16837102141  $91.00 $91.00  




Subtotal ? $1,554.68

[bill macdonald]

Roopert,
GO FOR IT!!
Bill

[Mark H]

Pretty good choices Roopert! ;D

That PSU should power just about anything you want to stick in that machine. ;)

Let us know when you get it together.

Mark H

[Roopert]

Just ordered : see : POSTER'S HAMMER

Thanks all!!!