A few computer questions

XxWTFxX · Jul 11, 2004

1) This is not directly related to computing, but I'm wondering if www.Ibuypower.com is a good place to customize a computer. I was planning to build one there, until many said that the service was unreliable, and sometimes parts were damaged/missing. So what do you guys think? Safe to order from ibuypower?

2) After some calculations, ordering from newegg and customizing on Ibuypower would be about the same price for the same stuff. I'm just wondering if these specs are good for the price, and whether they will be able to run top-of-the-end games

Raidmax Scorpio 868 Case $43
Athlon-64 3000+ Processor $223
Asus A8V-Deluxe w/LAN, 7.1 Sound, IEEE-1394, USB 2.0 8x AGP Motherboard $180
1 GB Corsair XMS PC3200 memory (with LED lights

) $355
Undecided CD-RW for around $35
Undecided DVD-ROM drive for around $42

Yes, no keyboard, mouse, speakers, monitor, OS, graphics card (I'm gonna take my 9600 from this comp to put on the new one..yes, tight budget

), and no hard drive (I'm gonna get a 160 GB for $75 from like CompUSA after rebate..much cheaper).

Any suggestions on how to make the machine work better, but without spending too much extra cash?

Thanks in advance

Praetor · Jul 11, 2004

1. I havnt purchased anything from them although I know a few people who have. Most people I know who buy stuff online by parts and assemble it themselves (its not that hard and a much cheaper route). Some other sites to consider:
- Newegg.com
- Harddrive.com
- Xoxide.com
- Bigfootcomputers.com
- TigerDirect.ca

whether they will be able to run top-of-the-end games

Depends on the video card.

Raidmax Scorpio 868 Case $43

To much "bling-bling" (not even, its hideous IMO), and not enough functionality. Have a look at something like Chenming 601/602 which ship with nice 400W Enermax's as opposed to "Raidmax PSUs"

Athlon-64 3000+ Processor $223

Unless I'm mistaken this is the 512K model. You would greatly benifit from the 1MB version but it will cost more. Dont forget to get a good HSF -- you wont regret it if you get one, some ideas here: http://forums.afterdawn.com/thread_view.cfm/81431

Asus A8V-Deluxe

Nice mobo -- just make sure the proc is a Socket939

Undecided CD-RW for around $35

Stay away from HP, LG, Optorite. Hunt down an ASUS/LiteOn 2-sheep burner. You wont be dissapointed

Undecided DVD-ROM drive for around $42

Grab at least the Pioner106 or preferably the Pioneer107.

I'm gonna take my 9600 from this comp

Is it the Radeon9600 or a sub-variant?

without spending too much extra cash?

You might be interested in some of these http://forums.afterdawn.com/thread_view.cfm/93097

XxWTFxX · Jul 12, 2004

Thanks a lot Praetor

About how much will the 1 MB version of my processor cost?
I have a Radeon9600, not a variant

Oh, and what about Sony drives? I heard those were pretty damn reliable.
Are you sure the Scorpio isn't that good? I like how the lights look

again, thank you

Praetor · Jul 12, 2004

The 1MB version of the chip will probably be a significant jump in price .... you'll be fine with the 512K version of course ... "it would just be nice" to have the full 1MB version... certainly NOT a priority if your budget is a concern. I think the 1MB versions kick in at A64-3400 and so probably in the $400-$500 range.

Oh, and what about Sony drives? I heard those were pretty damn reliable.

Sony may make the best TVs, stereos, cd players, monitors etc -- but there isnt a chance in hell they make the best burners. ASUS, Lite-On and Plextor will all kick a Sony drive around all day long. The ASUS and Litey cost roughly the same while the Plextor is really the "special" burner and cost ~twice that for the ASUS/Litey -- but its got some really nice features. Personally I use ASUS and LiteOn.

Are you sure the Scorpio isn't that good?

Just look at the case. What are it's realistic selling points: it looks "good". That's honestly about it

A few computer questions

XxWTFxX

New Member

Praetor

Administrator

XxWTFxX

New Member

Praetor

Administrator