Updating my Computer

[KnowTheToe]

Ok my computer is getting a little out dated. I am using a 500 MHz Athlon Processor, last year before I bought the game NWN I bought a new GeForce graphics card, I can't remember which one, but it can be transferred to the new system. My sound card is older, but I can't think of any reason not to keep it. What I am looking to do is get a new MB, RAM, and a hard drive. I have not filled my 8 Gig drive, but I still think it would be a good idea to replace it. I would also like to get windows XP and possibly a new copy of MS Office Small business.

I went to Pricewatch.com and found a processor

7VA-C GA-7VAC ,VIA KT333 Chipset, 1 AGP, 5 PCI, 2 USB, ATX, Audio, 333FSB , 184pin DDR333 + with cpu - ATHLON XP 2600+,2.13GHZ 333MHz, AX2600DMT3C w/ Heatsink & Fan, complete combo set.

RAMM
Kingston Technology
2 ea. of
KINGSTON KVR333X64C25/256 256MB PC2700 DDR333MHz Memory LIFETIME WARRANTY KVR333X64C25/256,256MB DDR-333MHz DDR PC2700 pc 2700 pc-2700 DIMM CL2.5 Form Factor: DIMM.

Hard Drive
Western Digital

40.0GB EIDE, 7200Rpm, 2MB,8.9ms (OEM, WHITE LABEL , 8 Months Warranty) Compatible with 45.0GB 40.0GB EIDE, 7200Rpm, 2MB, 8.9ms (OEM). SAME DAY SHIPPING.

These Three components should be approx $285.

Is there any other hardware I should consider?
Do you see any issues with the above configuration?
Where can I find cheap software (XP and Office)?


Any suggestions on other hardware are also welcome

 

[Psionicist]

Abit IS7 motherboard ($90 USD)

Pentium, 4 2.4C/800 MHz FSB boxed, retail version (approx. $170 USD)

Two sticks (say 2x256MB) of generic PC3200 DDR RAM (approx. $60 USD)

Any hard drive (seagate, western digital) will do. (approx. $60 USD)


This is a kick-ass upgrade for around $380 USD. Think about it, a P4 2400 MHz with 800 MHz system bus, a really good motherboard and fast memory.

 

[Maniac]

Where can I find cheap software (XP and Office)?

The only legal way that I know of is to get the Student versions. You technically need to be a Student to purchase but many places won't check (somp CompUSAs for example).

The student versions are identical to the regular versions but are not eligable for upgrade pricing and come in a hundred or more dollars cheaper.

M.

 

[Drawmack]

or you can spend 6 years in college and get a degree in computer sciences then you're employer will buy stuff like this for you.

 

[KnowTheToe]

The only legal way that I know of is to get the Student versions. You technically need to be a Student to purchase but many places won't check (somp CompUSAs for example).

The student versions are identical to the regular versions but are not eligable for upgrade pricing and come in a hundred or more dollars cheaper.

M.

Aren't we all students of life


Thanks Psionicist that looks good. I am going to go check out Abit's site and read more about the MB.

 

[drothgery]

The only legal way that I know of is to get the Student versions. You technically need to be a Student to purchase but many places won't check (somp CompUSAs for example).

It's probably worth noting that if you or anyone you live with is a teacher/professor, full or part-time college student, or between age 5 and age 18, you're not bending the rules by getting the 'for Students and Teachers' version.

 

[KnowTheToe]

or you can spend 6 years in college and get a degree in computer sciences then you're employer will buy stuff like this for you.

I prefer to live in the fast and dangerous lane. You know, go around with half assed knowledge and jump before I look. Formal education would just slow me down. Anyways, that is why I hang with smart people

Do I need any extra fans? My current system I was going to overclock so I bought 2 extra fans, I also use a server case. Anyways, the thing is loud and drives me crazy, I want to get rid of the extra fans if I can.

 

[KnowTheToe]

That is a sweet motherboard. I have officially switched configurations. Thanks for the input. Now, can I disconnect the fans not connected to the MB itself?

 

[Psionicist]

Btw, you might need a stronger PSU (power supply unit) to power the new components. A decent 350W PSU isn't that expansive, probably less than $40.

 

[John Crichton]

Will you be using your current case? Just making sure. I just built a new rig mostly from parts from www.googlegear.com (everything but the case). Didn't cost all that much. I'd check them for HD and memory prices...