I'm taking matters into my own hands and building my own PC :eek: . I am purchasing the main components and filling in the rest with parts that I have from another PC. I was wondering if I could get some ideas and help from you all about the parts that I have chosen.
Unfortunately (again :( ) , price is an issue for me and being a noob to this does not help matters :) . Here's what I have:
CPU: (Might be too much for what I need it for but hey *GRUNTS*)
http://www.newegg.com/app/viewProductDesc.asp?description=19-103-501&catalog=23&manufactory=BROWSE
Newegg sells Windows XPhome at a discounted rate if you buy hardware from them so I'll be getting that as well. Total cost of the build will run me a little over $550 with shipping and what not.
Thank you in advance, I appreciate all the help that you folks have given me.
MidniteOwlLV
cdroman
01-31-2005, 04:26 PM
The mobo and cpu that you are looking at are virtually identical to what I gave my son for christmas. I used pc3200 RAM with it. You'll like how fast it is at doing things like scanning with AV apps etc.
AllGamer
01-31-2005, 06:31 PM
hey very nice choice of case, PSU and CPU
but i'm not so sure about the Mobo
you might want to try something better, like an ASUS or MSI
:t
MidniteOwlLV
01-31-2005, 06:49 PM
Thank you for the feedback.
cdroman:
The mobo and cpu that you are looking at are virtually identical to what I gave my son for christmas. I used pc3200 RAM with it. You'll like how fast it is at doing things like scanning with AV apps etc.
I plan on using 2x256 pc3200 RAM as well. Taking it from my old PC.
Allgamer:
hey very nice choice of case, PSU and CPU
but i'm not so sure about the Mobo
you might want to try something better, like an ASUS or MSI
I am pretty wide open as far as Motherboards go, so if you can make some recomendations I would really appreciate it. Around the same price range as well (Trying to keep it less then $550 total).
Thanks Allgamer, I've updated my shopping cart with the second choice of Gigabyte Motherboards, look forward to putting it together (if I can figure that out :P).
I'll up-date this thread with the progress and hopefully post some pictures
RockNRoll
01-31-2005, 08:01 PM
:eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:
'nuff said.
MidniteOwlLV
02-01-2005, 01:27 PM
You said it RocknRoll, this is deffinitely going to be "Interesting" to say the least.
I have been a long time reader of the SysOpt Forums and like all the helpful posts from the community so I am very confident that I'll be able to get this done and have a great time doing it *hands begin to sweat*.
Please be prepared for a lot of NooB questions because I'm totaly new to this and I'm sure that during this project, a few (ok, a lot :D ) of four letter words will be muttered under my breath :P .
Please feel free to add any comments or criticisms during this project as it will only help me think and ask more questions.
I would again like to thank everyone in advance for helping me with this, you folks are great!
MidniteOwlLV
MidniteOwlLV
02-01-2005, 07:19 PM
Well, I was preparing the order to run it by the purchasing department (Wife, love you honey :) ) and I came across an AMD processor that said: "The Only Windows Compatible 64-bit processor". What the heck does that mean? Here is the item in question:
P.S. If you think that was a stupid question, please read the last part of my previous post ;) .
AllGamer
02-01-2005, 07:43 PM
Originally posted by MidniteOwlLV
came across an AMD processor that said: "The Only Windows Compatible 64-bit processor". What the heck does that mean? Here is the item in question:
don't worry, they are just making fun of Intel, that has a ****ty 64bit / 32bit processing
also is making reference to WinXP 64bit
that works bette rin AMD than it does in Intel
:t :D
MidniteOwlLV
02-01-2005, 09:56 PM
Whew! Thanks Allgamer, I was kind of worried about that :) .
UPDATE!!
Great News! The purchasing department (Thanks again honey ;) ) has allowed me to raise the total cost of the PC a few more dollars. I have added these items to the cart as well:
Hard Drive:
http://www.newegg.com/app/viewProductDesc.asp?description=22-148-040&catalog=23&manufactory=BROWSE
DVD Burner:
http://www.newegg.com/app/viewProductDesc.asp?description=27-190-007&catalog=23&manufactory=BROWSE
Fans:
http://www.newegg.com/app/viewProductDesc.asp?description=35-129-228&catalog=23&manufactory=BROWSE
2 X http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=35-150-037&depa=0
Router (The main reason I'm doing this whole progect was to allow us both to be online at the same time.):
http://www.newegg.com/app/viewProductDesc.asp?description=33-124-007&catalog=23&manufactory=BROWSE
OS (With the hat, of course :D ):
http://www.newegg.com/app/viewProductDesc.asp?description=37-102-151&catalog=23&manufactory=BROWSE
Any thoughts as to what I should change, if any?
Thanks again,
MidniteOwl
RockNRoll
02-01-2005, 10:49 PM
:eek: :eek:
A FEW MORE DOLLARS?!?!?!?!?!?!?!??!?!?!??!!?!?!?!?
ROFL!!!!!!!!
Geez that's a load of stuff ya got there.:eek:
Don't worry, we were all NooB's once. lol. Ask away anything you want and someone will know the answer.:D
Yeh the 64-bits are awesome. I have a 3000+ too except yours is Socket 939, mine is 754. I can go up to a 3400+ but with that mobo (being Socket 939) you should be able to upgrade to the 64-FX series.:D
I wouldn't go with XP Home though especially with Service Pack 2. If you can, get XP Pro with Service Pack 1. SP 2 has been known to make a real mess of stuff.
r8500
02-02-2005, 09:26 AM
For what you are doing, XP home should be fine. You will never use the extra features of Pro.
Also, you might consider spending a few bucks and getting a wireless router now. It will save you from having to buy one later if you decide you want to go wireless.
MidniteOwlLV
02-02-2005, 12:51 PM
Thanks for the tip guys.
Checked the prices on both items and gonna have to stay put with what I have :( .
XP pro is gonna cost me another $60 bucks or so and the wireless option is gonna run me another $10 plus, would'nt I have to upgrade my ethernet connection as well to do it?
MidniteOwlLV
r8500
02-02-2005, 12:56 PM
No need to upgrade the ethernet, it will still work as a regular router as well.
Strawbs
02-02-2005, 01:28 PM
*Strawbs subscribes to thread*
:cool:
MidniteOwlLV
02-02-2005, 02:04 PM
Well, after talking it over with the better half, we are beggining to consider the wireless option (you guys are great, thanks :) ).
I have a couple of concerns though. I have heard a lot about wireless connections getting hijacked and what not. How much of an issue is that and how much more $ is it gonna cost me to avoid that happening to me?
Also, if I go with a Lynksys router do I have to buy Linksys ethernet adapters as well (compatability issues)?
Thanks.
Strawbs
02-02-2005, 02:09 PM
any wireless kit will have inbuilt security, you just need to change the settings from default! Total Cost = $0.00
Wireless Ethernet Adapters X 2:
http://www.newegg.com/app/viewProductDesc.asp?description=33-124-104&catalog=23&manufactory=BROWSE
To complete the system, I already have 1gig of Kingston RAM and a 9800pro by MSI.
The order will be in today :D !
This is gonna be so much fun/stress.
Thanks for the help so far,
MidniteOwlLV
P.S. I came across this website while I was looking at wireless security, what do you think about the info on it, can I use it to configure my router/cards?
http://www.practicallynetworked.com/support/wireless_secure.htm
RockNRoll
02-02-2005, 05:10 PM
Just don't get USB wireless adaptors!!! Dad insisted on getting them and I HATE them!:eek:
And you might want the 802.11g which supports up to 54mbps instead of 11.
cdroman
02-02-2005, 10:06 PM
Originally posted by MidniteOwlLV
P.S. I came across this website while I was looking at wireless security, what do you think about the info on it, can I use it to configure my router/cards?
http://www.practicallynetworked.com/support/wireless_secure.htm
Good site. Go for WPA for security
http://www.sysopt.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=176578
MidniteOwlLV
02-03-2005, 07:26 AM
Posted by CDRoman:
Good site. Go for WPA for security
http://www.sysopt.com/forum/showthr...threadid=176578
What does "WPA" stand for? These routers and adapters have a lot of initials lol :) .
Sorry RockandRoll, the order has already been placed. Hopefully I won't encounter too many problems from these adapters.
MidniteOwlvLV
cdroman
02-03-2005, 07:37 PM
Originally posted by MidniteOwlLV
Posted by CDRoman:
Good site. Go for WPA for security
http://www.sysopt.com/forum/showthr...threadid=176578
What does "WPA" stand for? These routers and adapters have a lot of initials lol :) .
MidniteOwlvLV
Wi-Fi Protected Access:t
Yeah lots of initials. I do WPA-PSK with TKIP lol:)
RockNRoll
02-03-2005, 07:47 PM
Well nothin to worry about. The LAN might be slower but your internet will still be the same speed.
MidniteOwlLV
02-04-2005, 06:05 PM
Just got my parts from NewEgg!! The only thing missing was the hard drive which is comming from NJ and if I know FedEx, it'll probably get here by Monday. I opened the box and everything looked fine. Here's a picture of what I have so far:
http://members.cox.net/midniteowl/parts
As you can see by looking at the case, I decided to go with the silver (mainly cause the better half liked it better and she has better taste then I do :) ). I opened the tower up and looked inside. It was'nt as well built as I expected it to be, but for 60 bucks, I guess you get what you pay for. Hopefully when I put the parts in it'll make it somewhat sturdier. Also, some of the reviews I read on newegg said that they needed to remove the fan to install a new power supply. I looked at it and it seems like it should be no problem getting the fan and the PSU out ("Honey, where's my hammer at :p " ). A pretty spacious case for everything that I want to go into it.
I have to work today and won't be off until next week Wednesday, so I guess my project will have to wait till then :mad: . I still need to pick up the connectors for the floppy drive (or can I salvage it from my old comp's floppy?) as well as make some room in my house to do the project (Please, don't ask :) ).
MidniteOwl
MickMitani
02-05-2005, 01:26 AM
Don't know if you have a cordless phone in the house with so many people using cell phones only, but watch out for interference. We got new 2.4ghz phones for Christmas and they crashed our wireless video repeater connection. Had to take them back and buy 5.8ghz phones. Found out that most networks run 2.4ghz and there are only a few frequency choices in the range. Microwave ovens also cause lots of problems - we get snow/static on the video system whenever the microwave is running. A coworker has a wireless network and he can't use his laptop in the kitchen due to interference and he says he loses his connection about half the time the phone rings.
cdroman
02-05-2005, 08:39 AM
All our cordless phones are 900Mhz. and I find there is no problems that way. Some friends had quite a lot of problems with wireless and 2.4Ghz phones also.
AllGamer
02-07-2005, 07:09 PM
And Be Extremely carefull if you use BlueTooth devices along with Wireless B or G, they tend to have mid air collision :x
okay jokes asides, it does happen from time to time to Null out each other
I have it at home, and sometimes i need to turn off BT for the Wireless to work right within that 10 meter radius, and viseversa. :(
i've read a lot of the same problems as well on other areas, and people using cell phones with BT
TweakerXP
02-07-2005, 10:37 PM
Midnightowly,
Don't worry about asking questions, as said before, we all got to start somewhere. I built my first computer from the help of these guys here at Sysopt several years ago.
Now I have a small computer business, building custom systems for people locally and repairing systems for local businesses.
I know you'll have lots of questions, so ask away!!
That is why we're here!!
Have FUN!!!!:D
RockNRoll
02-07-2005, 10:42 PM
Yeh we got that prob with our phones interfering with the connection. Usually when the phone rings or just when it's picked up. Very weird it is...:p
MidniteOwlLV
02-08-2005, 03:47 AM
Thanks for all of the replies and the support folks! :D
When I read the first reply about the cordless phones I burst out laughing because the wife decided to order something from newegg as well and guess what it was? That's right, a 2.4Ghz cordless phone LOL, ROFL !!!
I am going to keep the phone to see if it really does cause problems with my wireless connection. If it does, I'm sure the wife is going to have a fit when we have to get another phone :p .
Thanks again,
MidniteOwlLV
P.S. At the request of the wife (If you wanna call it a request), I bought this as well:
O.K.! It' Wednesday and I have begun to work on my new computer.
The first thing I decided to work on was preparing the case. I knew that I had to change the PSU, so I took the blowhole fan off and removed the old/new PSU. I then took my Rosewill PSU and tried to put it in and.... I could not match up the screw holes on the PSU to the ones on the case. So what I did was put it in upside down and "POOF" it fit like a glove (I am guessing this is the way it should have gone in all along, but the words on the PSU are now upside-down which makes me wonder if I am doing it right :p ). Here are the pictures that I have so far (I will be adding photos to this as long as my personal webspace will allow me to.):
The next thing I did was remove the other side of the case and remove the motherboard tray to prep it for the M/B. The case came with a bunch of standoffs to put the M/B on and the M/B fit exactly where they had put them on the motherboard tray Except for three holes. They apparently had what looked like bracket holes where the standoffs should have went. Right now, I only have 6 of the nine available standoffs crewed in right now. Is there a solution to allow me to use the final three? Or can I go it without them?
TweakerXP
02-10-2005, 12:53 AM
Look at your motherboard and match up the holes with the standoff.
example...9 holes ...9 standoffs.
Don't leave any holes without a standoff.
You're good to go.....but slow don't get in a hurry.;)
MidniteOwlLV
02-10-2005, 01:20 AM
Thanks for the reply TweakerXP.
I looked at the holes and the motherboard has very large holes where the standoff holes should be. I looked at the stuff that came with the board and the case and nothing looks like it will fill those holes. If you look at the pictures, there is one of the motherboard tray. At the very top of the motherboard tray directly in line with the standoffs (the standoffs are in the middle left, center and right) there are holes that look like a braket should be mounted there, those are the locations for the motherboad holes :( .
Also, I took a look at the CPU instructions. It said that I needed "Thermal Cooling Solution". I read some other posts and they said that the cpu should come with some, but I can't find it :mad: . Any ideas?
Thanks again,
MidniteOwl
TweakerXP
02-10-2005, 02:23 AM
The holes in your mobo look like normal holes. You usually have little brass standoffs that come with the mobo. Place them in line with the holes on your mobo, them you should have several small screws the screw into the standoff under your mobo. Snug them up firmly, but dont crank them down too tight and damage your mobo.
Artic Silver thermal paste is what you want for you proc. They have some ceramic stuff out now that suppose to be really good.
Take your heatsink and polish the bottom with some fine sandpaper to get it smooth. You want to get a smooth surface so that the thermal paste will make a thin insulating film between the proc and you heatsink, in that it will transfer the most heat away from your proc.
(this part is subject to personal preference. You will see about 3 to 5 degree difference in cooling with your heatsink polished not much more) Every little bit helps.
Once you get your heatsink cleaned up smoothly. You are going to apply a very small amount of Artic Silver on top of your proc ( the silver block in the middle) then take a credit card, or something like that and gently and evenly smooth out the Artic Silver till you get a thin film, to where you can just barely see the letters on top (if there are any)Try not to get it all over the other part of the proc. Not too much because it wont allow the proper heat transfer (insulate too much) I'm sure someone here will link you to some pics of what I'm talking about.
When you get the AS applied to your proc then install your heatsink. Some apply the heatsink before installing it in the case. Some install it after the mobo is in the case. Either way BE CAREFUL!!! Some of the clips can be a bugger to get hooked on the socket.
Hope this helps......We're here for ya dude....;) :r
MidniteOwlLV
02-10-2005, 04:12 AM
Well, gonna take a trip to the hardware store and Fry's tomorrow to see if I can get these standoffs to fit through these holes and to pick up some connectors for my accessories.
I also looked at the heatsink for the CPU and there was something on it:
http://members.cox.net/midniteowl/thermalpad
(For those of you that are curious, yes, that is the bathtub in the background. I had to take the pic in the bathroom cause I don't have enough light anywhere else in the house. :p )
Is this the thermal pad that I have been reading about? If it is, should I keep it on there or just take it off and use the Arctic Silver?
TweakerXP
02-10-2005, 10:54 AM
Personally ....I take the thermal pad off the heatsinks that I build. I use Artic Silver only.
I take a razor and a little alcohol, take the razor and scrape off the goo. Becareful not to gouge the heatsink or your hand. THen take the alcohol and a rag and clean off the leftover goo.
If you do decied to sand it down. Do it on a hard smooth surface. Lay the sandpaper down and then place the heatsink on top and slowly sand it in circles. Dont do it all in one way, turn the heatsink around so that it sanded in different directions to get it smooth evenly across the heatsink. If you do it all in one direction chances are you have the heatsink sanded on one side and not on the other. You want it even.
I personally start off with couple sheets of 600 grit then a couple sheets of 800 grit then a couple of 1000. Some people use polishing compounds to get the bottom that look just like mirrors.
I don't go that far. I like mine very smooth but I don't polish them.
What kind of standoffs do you have?? plastic pushpins? You might have to put the standoff in then install you mobo and slide over the pins to get them to lock in place. Just guessing here.
:confused:
MidniteOwlLV
02-10-2005, 04:00 PM
Thank you for the tip tweaker.
The standoffs are standard but the hole in the M/B tray is not. This is what I did to illustrate what I'm talking about.
http://members.cox.net/midniteowl/standoff
If you look at the standoff on the bottom, it is sitting "In a Hole". What I did was take a scew with a large head and put it into the standoff upside down. Because I don't have a nut that small to fit ontop of the standoff, I'm going to buy one to put ontop of that so I won't have to use the second standoff to hold the M/B down.
TweakerXP
02-11-2005, 12:14 AM
Interesting..... for sure.....hmmmmm
Ok that sounds like it will work....
LMK.....;)
MidniteOwlLV
02-11-2005, 07:11 AM
Well, I went to Fry's for Arctic Silver and guess what, they did'nt have it in stock! They guy tried to point out other brands of Thermal Solution, but because I never heard of them, I decided to stick with the thermal pad that I have on the HS (The only thing you folks recomend and stand by on these forums is AS, so there has to be something to it ;) ). Besides, he told me that AS was going to come out with a 5th version of their Thermal Solution so I figured that I'd wait till it came out to get it then. I may be looking at getting another HS as well (A lot of forum members recomend Zalman Coolers). I also bought some rounded cables to help air flow (Thanks, SysOpt!).
While I was out, the kids decided to take a look at the system and add their own little touches to it (literally!). When I got home I found the power button wire had been cut (probably from rubbing against the case, shoulda' bought a saudering eyerun while I was at fry's too :p ). I took the wires and spliced them back together then wrapped them up in electrical tape.
Before working on the Processor, I decided to prep the case even more by installing the fans. It took me a while to find all the screws that needed to come out, but I finally got it.
http://members.cox.net/midniteowl/face
It looked like installing them was going to be pretty straight forward, until I tried to figure out which side was the intake side. Once I figured that out, installing them was pretty quick.
http://members.cox.net/midniteowl/fan1
http://members.cox.net/midniteowl/fan2
(Stupid Question 1.0 - Why don't Fan Companies let you know what side is the intake side? It took me a half an hour to figure it out and the only reason I did was because I eventually looked at the fans that came with the case and I STILL don't think I got it right :mad: .
Since I had both sides off I decided to put the drives in. I started with the DVD drive, then the Floppy and finaly the Card Reader. Once they were on I put the face back in and adjusted the screws to be flush with the case. The DVD came with screws but the Floppy and the CR did not, so I used some extra screws that I had from the case and they fit perfect!
http://members.cox.net/midniteowl/drives
I then moved on to the HDD. This also did not come with screws, but luckily I had some availabe. Since I had four slots to put it in, I decided to put it directly in front of the fan to help keep it cool (If this is wrong please let me know and I'll move it.)
http://members.cox.net/midniteowl/fan2andhdd
Once those were all done, I moved back to the processor. I wanted to make sure that I was grounded at all times (Just about all the stuff that I bought had something about static electricity, so I made sure I grounded myself before I handled everything) so I bought a grounding strap to help me with that. When I took it out of the box, I was suprised at how heavy it was for something so small. Now, I don't normaly sweat, but I can tell you that I was very nervous putting this thing in. When I figured out which way to put it in, it slipped right into it's spot. I put down the lever for the processor and "Got it!".
(Stupid Question 2.0 - Why do Processor Companies use silly simbols and colored dots to tell you which way to place the processor? You would think that with something so important and expesive for a system, they would come up with something a little more "Obvious". Anyone put one in the wrong way?)
I put the HS on next. It was pretty straight forward for putting that on (da pickchures halped out allot ;) ). I polished the processor a little with a paper towel to remove any dust or oil from my hand and then lined up the HS and placed it down on the processor. Put the latches on, moved the lever, snaped it in and...Done!
Since I was on the Motherboard I decided to put the RAM in as well. I am so glad this case came with a motherboard tray! When I installed the RAM into my other comp, I swear I thought I was going to push them through the back of the case. With that over, this is what it looked like.
http://members.cox.net/midniteowl/motherboard
Gonna work on putting the MB back into the case and start on putting the connectors in tomorrow (I'm really scared about this part :( ).
MidniteOwl
Rabbitrunner51
02-11-2005, 07:58 AM
When I built my present computer ,it was the first one I built also and it took less than two hours to put everything together.
That is not saying that you seem very wise in wanting to do it at your own pace and be careful,and I applaud you for that.
That is one very nice system you are building and personally I would not change a thing, although again you have re-thought some choices and they are good ones.
The thermal pad thing is just one of the things AMD does differently,and it should be quite sufficient for now. You can always replace and add thermal paste at a later date if needed.
Actually, I have always been confused as to why the CPU makers do not include thermal paste with their CPU's. Seems to make sense as the package processors come with the heatsink fans.
Also, it seems odd if in fact the Mobo maker does not provide the brass standoffs for the Mobo mounting. Mine came with these and afew more to boot.
Most all standard ATX form factor motherboards use the same general hole alignments so it should work. If not, then the case has something different about it,which I do not believe it does.
Another note of caution would be to be careful installing the memory modules as the clips should be all the way open to start and they fit snugly into the slots..aligning ONLY one way,which is the little cutouts will give you a clue. Do not hammer or force them in.. The clips are made to clip down as you snug the memory into place. They should be snapped tight when the memory is in properly. THEY CAN very easily break ( the clips on the end ) so be careful.
Just to make you feel more at ease.., I am still in my minds eye, a newby and considering all the experts and knowledge about computers there is, I have just touched upon the surface after three years...but well on my way.
Yes this forum esp. and others are extremely helpful in its overall knowledge base and the answers from most are going to help you alot and into the future as well.
Congrats on your new arrival and future geekdom .....
:eek: ;)
TweakerXP
02-11-2005, 10:18 AM
Owl...
Looking good so far....
There are little arrows on the fans to show the direction of the air flow. You want to have the front fans "pulling air IN" and the rear fans "pulling air OUT" so you will get a flow across the inside of your case. You're trying to get heat out of your case. Heat ..Bad. You'll see some cases with fans on top which work well. But you get too many fans and your system sounds like a small international airport.
Good to see that you put you hd in front of your fans, that will work well in keeping you hd cool. Also you got a little space around it so air can flow around it. Looking Good.
Q2...Who knows, some geek I guess thought it up...:rolleyes:
Did you take the tape off the bottom of the HS, the one that covered the thermal pad?
Just checking........:r :)
Looking at your memory arrangment....
Dual channel memory needs to have one stick in the first slot CLOSEST to the proc and then the second stick in the next slot.
If your mobo isn't dual channel....NP then. Most mobo's nowadays support dual channel.
You're doing great so far. Good to know you pay attention to the static electricty on your memory. I have lost a couple sticks that way. Once you do, just toss them in the garbage and get some new ones.
Keep up the good work.... can't wait till you put the power to her and hit the power button to turn it on for the first time....
THAT is when you get nervous......
But when you hear that little beep for the first itme....
YEAH BABY!!!!! That's a GREAT feeling knowing that you did it all on your own!!:D
Hang in there almost done....
MidniteOwlLV
02-11-2005, 05:18 PM
Thanks for all the words of encouragement guys, I really appreciate it.
OMG!!! WHAT TAPE??!!! Are you sure there was a piece of tape there? All I saw was some grey matter that looked like it was theThermal Pad (But then again, I don't know what a Thermal Pad looks like). When I intially put the heat sink on, I had to lift it up to see if I was aligned right and I saw some grey matter on the processor, so I assumed that it was the Thermal Pad.
It's a good thing that you told me about the RAM, they do run in Dual Channel and were in the wrong place :p . The RAM that was in the picture was the orginal RAM from my current PC, I was too scared/lazy to take the Kingston RAM out, but since I had to re-arrange them again, I figured I may as well put the Kingston in. I also pulled out my 9800 pro from there as well (the wife won't miss it ;) ).
http://members.cox.net/midniteowl/ram
http://members.cox.net/midniteowl/videocard
Please get back with me on this Thermal Pad. I really don't want to take this HS off again :( .
MidniteOwl
RockNRoll
02-11-2005, 06:46 PM
Yeh that "gray matter" is the thermal tape/pad. As long as it's on the bottom of the heatsink... LOL!
TweakerXP
02-12-2005, 12:35 AM
I have a had a few heatsinks come with the thermal pad and have a little plastic or little piece of paper over them. I think you would have seen it.
MidniteOwlLV
02-12-2005, 08:41 AM
WHEW!!! Talk about a load off my back ;) ! Once I got the video card and the RAM in, I started working on connecting all these wires to where they.....are....supposed...HEY!! I ain't got enough power cables for everthing in my case :mad: !! Finding the power for the M/B and the ground was simple enough, but when it came to connecting everything else, all the connectors looked pretty much the same. I noticed that the PSU and the fans all had two types of connectors to them (On the PSU there are several of them on one line). Does this mean that I can connect something esle to it and run it to the PSU on one PSU cable? This would allow me to have enough power cables for everything in the case. Any ideas as to how to connect them? Here's what I have:
5 fans
1 DVD Drive
1 HDD (Does this require a power cord? Mines did not come with one.)
1 Video card
1 Card Reader
1 Floppy Drive
1 set of LED lights (only one connector for that)
This does not include the wireless connection that I need to install as well and I'm sure it's going to require some kind of power. (I have not taken it out of the box yet.)
Actually, the Card Reader has only one cord comming out from it and no place for me to put a power cord. I am assuming that it will be drawing power from the M/B, but the problem is that I don't know where to put it on the M/B!! I looked at the manual for the M/B and it said nothing about a Card Reader. Does this mean that it does not support one? Is it called something else?
I am totally at a stand-still until I figure this out guys, please help :confused: .
Thanks,
MidniteOwl
TweakerXP
02-12-2005, 10:02 AM
Lets start with the fans.....
Fans.. your mobo will have a few two or three pin fan connectors located around in different places on your mobo. Manual will shows where. Usually labled "fan1" fan2 or something like that. Only two and three pin connectors, look at the connector from the fan and the connector on the mobo and you'll see how that, go together. One connector will be up near your proc, that one is for your heatsink fan. The rest can go to your case fans. EZ.
You will see a couple slots on your mobo labled "HDD0 and HDD1" and "IDE0 and IDE1" 40 pin slots near the edge of the board. One slot will be your floppy. It's smaller in size. Probally near the power supply connector.
HDD is for your hard drive(s)
IDE is for your CD-Rom, DVD's ,ect.
One hard drive?
Jumper set to MASTER....
Jumper??? Little plastic block on back of your HD and your CD-rom and your DVD player. They tell your system what priority your devices get.
Look at the device manuals or on top of your HD for instructions. Most are preset. You'll have MASTER, SLAVE, CABLE SELECT.
Hard drive set it to MASTER. Some cables (ribbon) will have the ends labled to where they go.
Cables have little tabs on the side of the connector or they have pin holes blocked, (cd-rom drives) so look at them carefully to see how they fit together. Shouldn't force them into the slots. Look at the cables and look at the slots so that they match.
Do you have ribbon or round cables?
They may or may not have printed on the cable what they are for. Like Floppy, Hard Drive, IDE....
OK back to hard drive. Blue end of cable goes into blue slot on your mobo (HDD0). Other end into your hard drive.
IDE (cd-rom, DVD stuff).. These connect the same way the hard drive does. Look at connector tabs on the ends of the cables and connector slots make sure they match up.
Floppy drive.. can be tricky here. Cable will be reversed at the device end. RED cable wire will be NEXT TO THE RED POWER CONNECTOR WIRE. Don't worry if it's not right, won't kill system or anything like that. The floppy light will stay lit up when you power up your system. Then just shut system down and reverse the cable. NP.
Note that the floppy cable will be painted on one side. Different from other cables. That is the side that goes next to the power connector.
Card reader... not sure. Don't have one. Should be very simiular to other devices.
Case lights...PAIN in the ---- !!! Someone need to come up with just a single plug for these. I always get them screwed up.
READ your mobo manual. Look at the pin layout. Get a maginfying glass so you can see the little letters( if your like me and can't see). You will have a little pin with stuff like "HDD LED, AUX, LED, and some other stuff. They go on the bottom right part of your mobo. (most of the time) Just try and match up the letters on the wires with the letters on your mobo. Again look at your manual. If they don't light up or work just reverse wire(s).
Power connectors for devices....
White molex (thats what they are called) are fat 4 pin connectors that supply power to your HD and IDE devices. They will only go in one way. Note edge of the connectors and the devices. Connector edge will be beveled.
Floppy will have its own small flat 4 pin connector. Thin pins. Not like the molex connectors. Floppy power cable will be attached to to a molex connector, connected together. You'll see it.
Video card will go in the top AGP slot. Top slot, set in towards the center of your mobo. Probally will have a latch on the end of it to hold your video card in place. Open up latch and gently ease the card into it's slot. Might have to wiggle it some(being new) to get it into place. Latch should lock in place.
The sound, video, modem cards should be last to go in. Best to lay your case on it's side to do this...
This should hold you for today....
:D
MidniteOwlLV
02-13-2005, 09:50 AM
The HDD has a Serial ATA connector, so I won't have to use the IDE cables for that (found that out by looking at the Seagate website because my HDD did not come with any cables). What's also cool is that my M/B came with the connectors to hook up to it. My PSU also came with the same type of connector that pluged right into the HDD for power.
As far as the fans go, I looked at the manual and there are 2 places for me to connect fans to on the M/B, I looked at the fans and there were only 3 that had those type of connectors, the ones that I bought. So what I did was connect the two intake fans to it (could not get the exaust fan cable to reach :( ). Does plugging the fans into the M/B only allow it to monitor the fan speed or does it supply power to it as well? Cause if it does, I can remove them from the PSU line.
I still had more stuff to plug in, so on one line from the PSU I connected, the Floppy Drive (PSU had a connector for that as well :) ), the front LED lights (when I got the case, the two power cables for them were both connected together, should it be that way or do they need their own line?) and the two front case fans.
On the second line, I connected the Video card and the other three case fans. I'll still need power for the adapter card though, won't I?
The case lights I lucked out on, they were clearly labled and the M/B manual showed the proper alignment.
Almost got it all together :t
Thanks again TweakerXP,
MidniteOwl
P.S. If anyone knows where to plug this card reader in, please let me know :( .
TweakerXP
02-13-2005, 03:01 PM
The first generation of serial connectors had a tendency of coming loose from the devices. You might want to get you a small tube of silicone and put a little dab on each connector so that they stay connected to the device. The second generation connectors are supposed to be better. I don't know how to tell them apart. Google it and see what you find.
I looked at your mbob pics and there is one fan connector next to your proc, is it labled CPU FAN?? Is there a fan connector just above your Video card? Next to your north bridge( big chip just below your proc). I'm just looking at the pic on the net and they're not very helpful.:r
If so, hook your rear case fan in there. There also looks like on towards the front side of your board too. Hook your front fan there, If you can or want to use it at all.
You have a 120 in the back which is going to be pulling a lot of air and 80 in the front which is going to be trying to keep up. You might be ok with just the 120 in the back and nothing in the front.
You will just have to experiment with it and see what works for you.
Plugging the fans in to the mobo just gives them power. Smart fans have a sensor that tests the air temp and them adjusts their speed accordingly.
I was looking at your card reader and its a USB connector. There should be a connector on your mobo for it. Look at the manual and see. Connect it there.
Adaptor card? What is it, not following you there. NIC card? Network Interface Card
Explain just a little more please sir.
Sound like you got a handle on this. Just a little more and we'll have you up and surfing in no time....
Rabbitrunner51
02-13-2005, 08:56 PM
For me I have four fans running inside my case.....; one in the side window,one in the front and two exhaust in the rear...
My PSU had a connector hub ( meaning a power string of connectors from the PSU that had four or five sets of three prong connectors on it...
If your PSU has these..then the fans just hook up to them and the fans will run directly off of them.
The fan connectors to Mobo are used mainly for readings for the fans i believe,and are not a requisiste for making them work.
Some cases and fans have a connector to a fan control device..such as one that might be incorporated into your case... again,these are used for readings and personal control options.
HD cables for IDE are used for both devices...CD-R ,DVD players and writers..ect..,and aslo the HD's.
It is important with a high end HD like the Seagate 7800 barracuda models to use cables that can run your HD at DMA 5 settings which may be confusing to you..but again this info should be spelled out either in the Mobo manaul and also on the info sheet sent with your HD.
Most of the time your HD will pick up the speed settings ( DMA 5 ) and automatically adjust it to DMA 5 settings.
The settings can also be adjusted properly and read in the Bios interface ( thisis wher you hit F8 after boot and get into it.
Don't suggest you mess with this at first until you know more about what youare doing.
A high end Video card these days requires you to hook one of those normal PS connectors ( like those hooked to the HD and other devices to the VC and the card will also have a smaller connector that hooks up to a place designated on yur Mobo.
Sata HD's have its own connector on the Mobo usually,and your Mobo manual should show this placement... quite simple .
If you have two HD's then make sure in the back of the one that is for your main drive operating system and bootup ..it is set for the number 1, which is the setting for read first....
Another connector that some people have a hard time locating is the one for the CPU fan ..which is located RIGHT NEXT to the CPU itself somewhere..( again, read the diagram in the manual for location.
Most of this info is just basic stuff that mostly is a norm for modern Mobos... ;)
MidniteOwlLV
02-14-2005, 08:24 AM
I have decided to just plug in only the HDD and the Video Card along with the case fans on power up for now. If I blow something, at least I wont have to replace ALL my components (Just the expensive ones :p ). I'm leaving the case off for now so I can see how this thing really reacts to the power up.
So, I connect a monitor and keyboard to the comp. Plug it in, hit the power button and......
IT'S ALIVE!! ALIVE!!
It sounds so loud with all the fans running I can't believe it. The screens shows the system booting up (by the way I did not hear a "beep" when I turned it on. Is that bad? No smoke though :t ) and then the fan for the PSU turns off :eek: !! I'm like freaking out saying to myself "What the *explative* is going on??!!". Well, because I was not sure what to do, I turned it off.
Everything in the system seemed fine and it seemed like it passed the "Smoke Test", so I tried turning it back on again. It started back up and then the fan ran for a while and died out again :mad: . This time I went into the bios and checked the system status and it said that the CPU temp was 37c . Just when I saw the temp, the fan started up and the temp dropped to 36 and started climbing again, so I'm thinking the system turned the fan off because there was no need for it to run at that temp (dunno)? I had to shut the system down again because I had to go to work, but am so happy that it did not blow up or something crazy like that.
I'm gonna install the DVD so I can set up the operating system tomorrow. If there is any ideas about this, please let me know.
Thank you all for your help :t .
MidniteOwl
P.S. The Adapter I was refering to was the wireless adapter for my router. I looked in the box and it did not have any cables to connect, so I think I may be fine.
TweakerXP
02-14-2005, 09:49 AM
NO beep !! ?? That kind of concerns me. Make positive that your processor fan is running!! You should hear a beep or a series of beep. The temp 37c ...thats fine. Intel procs run hotter, not unusual for the to hover around 48c to 54c. My system (AMD 3000+ w/400FSB) stays around 40c (105F). Hard gaming it'll get up in the mid 40's(115F). So you temps ..OK. Don't know what pws you have in the case. It might have some sensor, I don't know. Check the manual and physically look at the manual to see if they're the same thing.
Told you that all those fans would sound a like a small airport.:D
You can always disconnect a couple of them. JUST AS long as you get some air flow across (through) your componets inside your case. Never quite understood the fans on the side of the case, they just (seems to me ) suck the air away from all the componets inside. The air comes in the front and then takes a left turn and out the side and never get to where it will do the most good. Guess that just me.:rolleyes:
Owl, start the system up, if the processor fan is running , let it go for a few minutes. Enter your bios and watch the temps. If the temps keep going up and up and up.... shut it down. But they should level out. Some people will suggest a burn in, which will torute your entire system for like 24 hours. The thought is that if it's going to break it's going to do it in the first 24 hours. I just let mine run all night long. In fact I have my systems run 24-7 except during thunderstorms then I unplug the internet and power them off and disconnect the power cords.
I did notice that there is a update on your bios for your mobo that pertains to your temps reading on your mobo. You'll need to get that later.
When you get your DVD in there. slip your Windows CD in and it will do everything for you. Just follow the screen instructions. Once you get Windows installed and get all your update, (QUTIE A FEW) install what ever antivirus software you're going to use. Now your safe to venture out on the net. Go to Soltek and get your bios update. Most now are automatic installation. Make sure sure your get the one's for your mobo. In the old days you have to put them on a floppy and then boot up to the floppy and HOPE AND PRAY that it didn't wipe out your bios completely.
Your wifi adapter should just plug into a IDE slot and your internet cable should plug in to it. I'm not a big fan a wireless stuff. Way too open for me. I have a 900mhz scanner, got one before the law changed. Love to ride around and listen to peoples phone call. Never know who's listening in.:x I like land lines. WIRED all the way. But that just me. Make sure you get your wifi locked down. I don't have a clue on how to do that. Post it in wifi section of the forums here and someone will help you out on that end of it.
Hope that helps....waiting to hear from ya...
RockNRoll
02-14-2005, 03:52 PM
I don't believe all PC's actually DO beep when they turn on. At least, I've never heard Dad's Athlon XP beep...
Though maybe you didn't connect the PC speaker to your motherboard. If you don't have the components in the case that's probable cuz the PC speaker is usually in the case.
Rabbitrunner51
02-14-2005, 04:26 PM
Not quite sure how much you really know and are famliar with...but after it boots up..and it sounds like it did at least that...( good sign ) ,then try going into the bios...and check everything for the settings versus the equipment you have plugged in...
Just do a run through of all the differnt menu choices...and it will show lot of info... some of which may be foriegn to you. ( even I do not fully understand everything..but have learned more over time )
Things such as CPU speed....whether your memory shows up as good and what its running on ..exp. dual memeory > set to that if your modules are connected like that.
AGP and apppature speed... ( at least 128> I use 256 for that )
It will also show in the HD or drives attached section..that you are using DMA 5..which is the highest transfer rate for the HD.
It is most important that the CPU fan is running all the time.. ( mif not its a good bet yur processor temps and operation willl go up dramatically and burn the CPU out.
Mostly the default settings in the bios should be left alone in general,but yu can change whatever needs changing and upon exit just hit save changes and exit. If something seems amiss..then just reboot in safe mode F8 and tell it to return to the default settings.
if all of your main components like the HD's VC .CPU fan plug ,memory, ectt. are plugged in correctly..it should boot up just fine.
And... good luck and ask more questions if unsure of first... OK as you are not that clear and better safe than be sorry.
MidniteOwlLV
02-16-2005, 04:58 AM
I am sending this post via my new computer that you have helped me put together :t . It took me a while to figure out how to configure my router to get online, but as you can see I got it.
I still need to set up a couple of other things like the video drivers and the other things but I did not want to install some programs untill I got some feedback from you all.
The mobo came with a utility disk that had the m/b drivers and other necessary things but there was other software I was not sure about installing, mainly because the programs that come with hardware or items like that are'nt really what most people use (at least I don't think so :confused: ). Here are the programs.
It also has Norton Internet Security 2004 but it's a trial version. I've decided not to install it mainly because I know of many other programs that are just as good if not better than Norton (Thanks Sysopt :D ).
Here is what I have burned to a disk from my other PC and installed in this comp.
I also plan on downloading Spyware Blaster as well to help out as well. Microsoft bought out this other company that makes a very good spyware program that finds things that Adaware and Spybot do not. I'm thinking about doing that one too but because it's a beta version and because it's owned Microsoft, I do not know if I can trust it totaly. Any thoughts on this as well?
Finally, I will probably want to O/C this CPU mainly because my RAM is only running at 166Mhz instead of 200Mhz like it should be and I heard that this chip overclocks pretty well. I was going to set the RAM at 200Mhz in the bios, but decided to wait until I got some info from you guys/gals. Any ideas?
Thanks again for all of your help and I look foreward to the feedback.
MidniteOwl
Rabbitrunner51
02-16-2005, 06:55 PM
Some mobos have somew sort of automatic OC'ing feature in the bios... if so..use that if not then I beleive if you have PC3200 memory and yur CPU allows for it...then just set the CPU speed up some and the bus speed to 200 in the bios...It should be OK.
Good choice of spyware programs as I use all of those including Spywareblaster( always update periodically )
A good virus program should be loaded first and run through after your system build ..and from my perspective and many others here...Norton's Antivirus is not the most popular ( I personally do not like it ).
I would use Kapersky Pro 5.0 ( free download for home use ), or McAFee antivirus,AVG ,or Avast ....
The very first thing that needs to be installed upon a new system build is the Mobo drivers always... updated ethereal drivers ( cordless modem for you ) ,and the latest MS XP drivers...
It is not necessary for you to use the auto bios flash utility as what yur board is set for default is fine for now....
Do not get fancy or worry about more than that for now...mainly just the basics will do.
After installing drivers and anything else..always remember to reboot your Comp after doing so....
MidniteOwlLV
02-17-2005, 10:55 PM
I wanted to create a restore point for my computer but it says that I do not have administration rights to do so. What does that mean? I'm the only user on the OS. What if I reformat my drive, will I be able to reinstall XP again? I have an OEM verstion.
Also, I'm getting a message when i boot up that my MSMessenger cannot start. Any reason for this?
Thanks for the help
MidniteOwl
MidniteOwlLV
02-18-2005, 09:23 AM
I did something very extreme to get my admin privelages back, I re-installed XP. I was very dissappointed because my comp is only 3 days old and already I had to do that :( .
What I did was go into the bios and set up my system to boot on CD. Then I did a full install. When it asked me about which partition to eliminate, there were two partitions :confused: . One was 8mb and was showing as "unpartitioned", the other was the rest of the HDD. When I initially installed the HDD, the total capacity only showed up as 76gig, so I was wondering where the other 4 were (Any ideas?) i guess that was it maybe? So, I selected the partition and deleted it. Then, it came back up and the 8mb were gone and there still was only 76gigs of space on my HDD? Anyhow, I selected it and the disc did it's thing. Restore Point Created
Once I got everything set up and windows booted. I immediately checked my admin privelages and sure enough, I had them back :cool: . I immediately inserted the disk to install the drivers for my mobo. Once those were installed, I configured my network card and got online and went to giga-byte's website to download the updated drivers. They have a download center that scans your PC and tells you excactly what drivers you need. It also had an option to install straight from the website, but what I did instead was download them to my desk top and install them one by one (6 total). Restore Point Created
I then went to install the drivers for my Video Card (9800pro 128), but it said that the drivers were newer than the on the CD. So what I did was install .Net Framework 1.1 and went to ATI's website and downloaded the newest drivers from them which I was gonna do anyway (you need to have .Net Framework 1.1 installed in order to use their newest drivers). As a side note: I have read around about special drivers for ATI cards not made by ATI that are better, any thoughts on that? Restore Point Created
Once I got those out of the way, I installed my "PC Protection" Programs: Adaware, Spybot S&D, AVG, Spywareblaster, Sandra 2005 *LiteVersion and Ewido (Thanks SysOpt!!!). I was going to install Zone Alarm, but was not sure if I needed it now that I have a router (Do I?). Restore Point Created
Which brings me to where i am right now.
I plan on doing a burn in test to see how everything is doing. Hope everything goes ok. Wish me luck and thanks again for all the help :t ,
MidniteOwlLV
P.S. I need to take a picture of the PC to show you folks the finished product, but my digital camera sucks in the dark. I'm gonna use a regular camera and see if I get better results.
Rabbitrunner51
02-18-2005, 10:08 AM
As is the case with most HD's...after you put the operating system in and what not it uses a certain amount of space..hence the less HD space...
You did it right the second time ..and I do know what you mean as I still have issues about this whole admin. rights thing... it is Microsoft again putting their all mighty control over each and every product they sell....
Its like you go out and buy a computer and then you think you own it..whcih you do...but in fact without the OS installed it is quite useless to the average nerd.
Any time you install VC drivers you always first load the ones the VC came with ..and then update from there.
It is wise and proper to use the offical ATI updated drivers..as with generic it is a roll of the dice as to how they will affect each card. Some people prefer the latest ones and some have an older version they think works best for them... It wouldn't hurt to try whtever ones you want and give it a test drive..so to speak...
One site that carries all the drivers you heard about is Guru3D.com...they have most of the bootleg ones and quitre alot of other useful tools and info.
So how is everything working for ya..?? You built a nice system which should be fast and work well....;)
TweakerXP
02-18-2005, 10:56 AM
Glad to see your up and running..
As far a a firewall as long as your behing it you're fine. I have had several friends try and hack my system and they couldn't get in. I'm behind a Linksys router and snug as a bug in the rug.:D
I'm going to have to say something about "not loading mobo bios updates" that Rabbit said not to do. I say that you should get the updates for your mobo. The update is to correct your mobo temps. So, that's up to you.
Send pics when you can ...:t
Rabbitrunner51
02-18-2005, 06:33 PM
Tweaker is correct ... What i meant to say is that most updates might not add anything significant ...but you should go ahead and read what the bios update corrects..ect.. for your needs.
Every Mobo is different as are Mobo manufacturers....
Firewalls are said to be a must by most of the tech community ( they will all tell you it is a must have),but in my case I just do not feel I need one at present ( my opinion only ) as I have all the latest protection programs and updates... which scan any unwanted entries into my system...
Also, it can be tricky selecting which one to use... and again this subject is discussed in full in many places here in these forums.
Temps are also a arbitrary thing at best,which takes into account the CPU you have..Mobo and compatibility of everything working as one...
Any readings below 40c is good to go. the readings may always fluctuate according to the CPU load and they often go up ..just operating or opening a certain program..then should quickly go down upon idle use. Your 37 reading is very good for the processor you have.
My temps are always low..( 27-33 degrees CPU and 32+- for case )mainly due to the normal fan setup( two with air going in and two at rear with air going out.I also have my Computer near a window and use a large tower,which helps the airflow and cooling.
I am not real knowledgeable about more tech. things in depth..but there are plenty of others her who could help with those needs.....;)
MidniteOwlLV
02-19-2005, 08:26 AM
Thanks for all the information. I am really pleased with the way the system is running right now. I just got home from work and am about run this Sandra Burn-in test. Not sure how it will work but I'm sure that it'll be ok.
I'm going to install a firewall program anyway, but can you recomend something other than ZoneAlarm to put on my computer. I have nothing against ZA, but I feel that they are becoming like Norton and getting too big for their britches. Time to help out someone else now, or is ZA just "The Best So Far"? If it is, I'll just stick with them.
I'll try and get some photo's taken soon, need to dust off the old camera to do so. I was suprised at how spoiled I got when I started complaining to myself that I would have to take my film to the store to get it developed :p (Funny huh?) .
One strange thing has happened that I would like to ask about though. When I check my e-mail via Outlook Express, I also get logged onto MSN Messenger automatically. Not sure why this happens, but I am not very pleased. Has this happened to you? When I try to exit MSN Messenger, it tells me that my e-mail program needs me to be logged onto MSN Messenger in order for it to work "Properly". I really do not care about who made my OS or the programs that I use on my computers, but ANY company that makes a product dependant on another product without letting their customers know about it in the first place IMHO, are a bunch of crooks :mad: . I just hope that I have something wrong with my program or something like that so I don't have to be chained to MSN for the rest of my days.
MidniteOwlLV
TweakerXP
02-19-2005, 02:25 PM
go to START...RUN....type in....MSCONFIG....then to STARTUP.....uncheck MESSENGER. Reboot. That should take care of it when ever you start your system up.
Makes you feel good inside knowing that you just built your first system and shes up and running, huh!!:D
CONGRATS Owl.....:D :cool:
One day you'll get to pass it on to someone else....
ZA make about the best firewall. But if your behind a router your going to be safe.
TINY also makes a firewall, if they are still in business. I remember some saying that it was a good firewall.
Take care......:t
TweakerXP
02-19-2005, 02:51 PM
Owl... You can also go and open up Outlook Express and look under TOOLS ...OPTIONS....GENERAL.... UNCHECK Automatic logon to Messenger start when you open Outlook.
Hope that helps....
MidniteOwlLV
02-19-2005, 06:27 PM
Thanks a lot TweakerXP! I really appreciate all the help you and the other members have given me. When do you think I'll be ready to O/C this CPU and what do you think the potential for it is? I bought this one not based on price but what the comparibility it was to my P4 3.0. People have been telling me that I can get 3.0gig out of this CPU, what do you think?
I'll try getting this MSMessenger off my e-mail and see what happens.
Thanks again :t ,
MidniteOwlLV
TweakerXP
02-19-2005, 08:35 PM
Try this place and see what you can find on HOW TO's and stuff....
http://forums.pcper.com/
I have OC one of my systems (xp1600+ 1.4mhz) to almost 1.7 before she started giving up. But I don't do too much of that any more. With the AMD 64, that bad boy should scream!!:eek:
You can OC it whenever your ready. Just be careful. Your more than welcome for the help!!;)
Have Fun!:x :r :t
MidniteOwlLV
02-22-2005, 06:20 PM
Boy!! This stuff is confusing. The link you gave me sent me from one forum to another and another. All of them were very informative, TOO informative. There's so much information to take in I'm totaly overwhelmed :confused: . Not too sure how to proceed.
MidniteOwlLV
Rabbitrunner51
02-22-2005, 11:39 PM
don't feel alone on that.. I agree. The whole computer thing and all that is involved and what you can do is an almost endless fountain of info.
In my honest opinion, it may be better to just concentrate on the basics and worry about the OC thing later on.....
If you have a top notch system..and you just built it,I would think that because everything is new...THAT alone would enough to keep you busy and happy as a lark.
Most of the genral Tech community and most of the experts agree that OC'ing is really something that should not be done..unless its for some useful or needed purpose in doing so... it really can put a heavy burden on your overall system and eventually the strain might wear some things out sooner than later...
All I did with mine,was OC my CPU to 5 percent OC'ing. It runs a 2.93 GHZ right now and is stable..but I have that built in bios OC'ing feature that comes with the mobo.
TweakerXP
02-23-2005, 01:52 AM
I agree with Rabbit, you have got a really nice rig. You should leave OCing alone for now. No sense screwing it up. If you do it wrong you could end up rebuilding your system again:eek:
Just sit back and enjoy what you've done. :D
Maybe down the road,when you feel more comfortable and have a little more knowledge of OCing then take a crack at it. Theres no hurry....:D :r
MidniteOwlLV
02-23-2005, 02:29 AM
Thanks for the advice guys.
I've been doing a lot of reading on the subject and have an idea of how O/C'ing works. However, I do not see any definitive guide for Overclocking an A64 with my motherboard configuration. I'm going to do more research into my mobo before I even do something.
I'm trying to get my computer set up for an upcomming game and my new comp is going to be a little behind on the performance curve (even if I can get my CPU to something like 2.4 or 2.5 Ghz (Pentium equivalent), I think I'll be good.
I have seen people post those kinds of speeds on stock cooling but no deffinite way of doing it. Hopefully more research will produce something.
I'll be sure to let you know when I come up with something.
Thanks again guys :t ,
MidniteOwlLV
Rabbitrunner51
02-23-2005, 09:18 AM
TweakerXP... That looks like a really nice forum center link you gave above .....and I just attached it to my Favorites link.... Thanks!:eek: :D
MidniteOwlLV
02-23-2005, 07:17 PM
I did the same here RabbitRunner51 :D !! That link led me to a another thread that I booked marked as well. Here it is:
http://www.hardforum.com/showthread.php?t=847481
This is a guide for overclocking a A64 and is pretty straight foreward. I may look at using this guide to O/C my CPU after I fully understand what he's talking about. Lemme know what you guys think.
Also, I read in another thread that Newegg was selling Winchester CPU's that were not good overclockers (not too sure what good is :confused: ) .
MidniteOwl
TweakerXP
02-24-2005, 02:54 AM
Owl..
If you're worried about an upcoming game and preformance. You have plenty of horsepower in the chip you have. You might want to look at your video card and the amount of memory it has. That will be the test.
I have a ATI 9700 Pro and after about three hours of FAR CRY it starts to cough up and crash. It gets WARM, believe me!!:eek:
You chip isn't going to be the problem.....:t
you're welcome guys on the links......
MidniteOwlLV
02-24-2005, 04:55 PM
Well, I did a whole bunch of reading (My head hurts) and decided to take the plunge. I used that thread I posted above and came up with this:
http://members.cox.net/midniteowl/newclocking
I tested with Prime95 like the Original Poster suggested and ran Memtest as well (5 hours each), both passed. I still need to run Prime95 for a 12 hour period, but I'm happy so far :D . I did not try to adjust the memory timings (currently running @ 2.0-3-3-7 with a 166 divider), cause I'm happy with where it is at the moment.
MidniteOwlLV
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