I want to build a new computer this summer. This will be my first build. I am a college engineering student and I will primarily be using the computer for Word, Excel, and light CAD work with AutoCAD or a similar program (maybe PRO-E if I can find it). I want wireless so that my laptop can share the internet connection and files with the desktop. On top of the other software....in the future I may want to record and edit my own music (probly don't have the $$$ for a sound card like that yet). I also want to use the machine as a digital video recorder. On top of everything, I want stability, ease of use, and upgradability. Would prefer to keep the cost around $1000 not counting the monitor.
I have been looking around and pretty much decided that a P4 3.0ghz would be the most cost-effective right now. I like the idea of H/T because I always run more than one program at a time. I can't decide between the Prescott and the Northwood core. I'm leaning toward Prescott because of the uprgadability of Socket 775.
Can anyone make some recommendations of a good CPU/Mobo combination that will suit my needs? I have looked at the AsRock 775V88 and the Asus P5P800. I'm not sure that I need PCI-x right now or DDR2....but I do want uprgradability so I'm not completely ruling out the two options. Also, I do not plan to overclock with this system....I want great stability. Would prefer something with Raid 0 or the ability to add it on b/c I have had bad luck with hard drive failure in the past and Raid 0 seems to be the best way to back up my files.
As for a video card....I was considering an ATI all-in-wonder card (not sure which model). I don't plan on doing any hardcore gaming. Occasionally a Nintendo or SuperNintendo emulator...nothing more. If anyone can give me any suggestions, they would be greatly appreciated.
Alan
I have been looking around and pretty much decided that a P4 3.0ghz would be the most cost-effective right now. I like the idea of H/T because I always run more than one program at a time. I can't decide between the Prescott and the Northwood core. I'm leaning toward Prescott because of the uprgadability of Socket 775.
Can anyone make some recommendations of a good CPU/Mobo combination that will suit my needs? I have looked at the AsRock 775V88 and the Asus P5P800. I'm not sure that I need PCI-x right now or DDR2....but I do want uprgradability so I'm not completely ruling out the two options. Also, I do not plan to overclock with this system....I want great stability. Would prefer something with Raid 0 or the ability to add it on b/c I have had bad luck with hard drive failure in the past and Raid 0 seems to be the best way to back up my files.
As for a video card....I was considering an ATI all-in-wonder card (not sure which model). I don't plan on doing any hardcore gaming. Occasionally a Nintendo or SuperNintendo emulator...nothing more. If anyone can give me any suggestions, they would be greatly appreciated.
Alan
