New system need comments

[mk]

I am building a new system for a friend. The last system I build was based on a barton 2500+ and a lot have happened since then. So please tell me if you think this setup is a good or a bad way to go.

• MB: Asus A8V Deluxe (should I go for PSI Express?)
  CPU: Athlon 64 3000+
  Cooler: Zalman 7000AlCu
  RAM: 1GHz of ram (There are so many different types - what goes well with the MB and CPU?)
  GPU: Sapphire 9600/9600XT (any passive cooled alternatives?)
  HD: Maxtor DM 10 160 Gb
  PSU: Sea Sonic S12 - 430 W (Is this overkill? -alternatives?)
  Case: Cheap one modified with 120 mm intake at the bottom.
  DVD-burner: NEC 3500

So what do you think? If someone can help me choose the correct RAM I will appreciate it.

Tanks

[mk]

Why is the post not showing up on the mainpage?

[m0002a]

I would look at the Asus A8N-E, which is a very good PCI-E board. The user manual has a list of tested memory, but obviously other memory would also work. I used Corsair TWINX1024-3200C2PT (2 x 512) which is very stable. It will work in DIMM slots 2 & 4 (or obviously 1 & 3) to run a bit cooler away from the CPU. You will want to replace the MB chipset HSF with a Zalman passive chipset cooler for $10.

If a moderate PCI-E video card is desired, then the ASUS Radeon X300SE Video Card is a possibility. If you want a 9600 or similar, you will have to go with a AGP motherboard.

Given your fairly modest video card, the Seasonic S12-380 would work fine. I am using that PSU with a 3500+ and 6600GT and 2 hard drives.

The Antec SLK3700-BQE or SLK3000B would work as a case (the SLK3000B has side CPU vent hole, but I don't think you need that, and would increase noise a bit. But the 3000B comes without a PSU, and you would have to sell the PSU included with the 3700-BQE (You can easily get $25-$30 on eBay for the PSU).

If you get the 3700-BQE, this drive mounting system will make the hard drive inaudible:
http://forums.silentpcreview.com/viewtopic.php?t=10450

[andyb]

The 9600 is an entry level gaming card.

Which category do you fall into.

1, Play games lots, 6600GT or upwards.
2, Play games Ocasionaly, 9600 would be good, or 6600 (non GT) for PCI-E + AC VGA Silencer 3.
3, Rarely if ever play games, Passivly cooled MX 440 (unless you need DVI).

As far as PCI-E goes, it depends on your budget, and the above question.

I cant say I am a fan of ASUS boards, I would recommend the MSI K8N NEO2 + Low Profile NB Heatsink mod.

As far as RAM is concerned, check the manual, and get something that it lists, otherwise you are gambling.

I totally agree with m0002a on the case + PSU, no need for a front fan on that system.

I dont know whether the HSF will foul any components.??? it's BIG. If it does, great.

Andy