PC Help Needed - Assembling a PC

[gsferrari]

As you may already know...my laptop took a tumble for the worst and a $2500.00 mean machine turned into a $2500.00 scrap heap. It still works...but barely...and I want to salvage as much as I can before it completely dies.

I can salvage:

* CPU : P4 3.4 Ghz Northwood
* RAM : 2 x 512MB DDR400 RAM
* HDD : 2 x 60GB 7200 rpm HDDs (I had RAID-0)
* DVD/CDRW Drive

Out of this list I will probably sell the RAM and the Optical Drive for a wheeze and put everything else to use.

NOW :

I want to use the P4 CPU because I think it is more than enough for my needs. I want to build a desktop around this CPU.

P4 3.4 Ghz
1024 MB RAM
nVidia 6800 Ultra
2 x 74GB 10K rpm WD Raptors in RAID 0


I need help finding the motherboard, RAM and the best Graphics Card which will not be limited by the CPU. (in essence...I dont want the absolute best if it will be bogged down by the CPU performance...if this is not a factor then I will go for the absolute best).

Can you please help me?

Thanks!

gs

 

[Edwood]

Which Brand and model Laptop is this?
Have you taken it apart?

If so, post pics of the motherboard and CPU. Unless it's a DTR chip, chances are it's not socketed and soldered, so you won't be able to remove the chip.

Not sure if mobile P4 is compatible with latest and greatest motherboards. I have both the Intel 865 and 875 motherboards, and they have been rock solid work horses.

First thing first.

If you haven't already done so, start burning all your important stuff to DVD's and /or CD's. Back em up before your computer starts to die.

-Ed

 

[gsferrari]

It is a DTR. Sager NP-8790 and I have already dismantled everything (after making backups).

it is a desktop P4 Northwood CPU clocked at 3.4 Ghz.

The motherboard in this laptop is an Intel 875 derivative with a 800Mhz FSB.

 

[Edwood]

Quote:

Originally Posted by gsferrari It is a DTR. Sager NP-8790 and I have already dismantled everything (after making backups). it is a desktop P4 Northwood CPU clocked at 3.4 Ghz. The motherboard in this laptop is an Intel 875 derivative with a 800Mhz FSB.

Dude, I'm tripping right now or something.

Major Deja Vu...... wow....weird.

Anyways.

This is the P4c chip, right, with HT and 800MHz FSB, right?

Look no further than the Intel Desktop Board D875PBZ.

Big honking passive heatsink on the Northbridge.

The drivers are very easy to install (one of the easiest installs I've ever had, Intel gets it right), and the memory controller is faster than my Athlon 64 Asus A8V Deluxe's memory controller.

-Ed

 

[wallijonn]

The PBZ is getting about as hard to find as a 3.2C Norwood cpu. You might want to consider the DFI 875-T. It can accept 775 Prescotts while still using PC3200 and AGP vid cards.

http://www.hardcoreware.net/reviews/review-254-1.htm About $170.

Oh, that's right, you want to use your 3.4C... It can be removed from your laptop?

btw, I own the v205 PBZ. I love it. You'll want the Extended Edition motherboard (Supports Norwood EE chips). .

 

[XxATOLxX]

The setup your trying to make is going to kick booty. Im looking at the parts you wanted to put in this desktop comp and it looks like your budget limit is set pretty high.

Anyways, I just put this list together for my recommendations.


Motherboard: ABIT IC7-G MAX II ADVANCE

Ram: G.Skill Dual Channel (512x2) Kit with the "BH-5" Chipset (It overclocks like a dream)

Video Card: I would say a Radeon X850 or a 6800 Ultra, I would go with the 6800 Ultra (I'm an nVidia fanboy

)

[Edit] Dont forget the EMU!

[/Edit]

 

[Edwood]

Quote:

Originally Posted by wallijonn The PBZ is getting about as hard to find as a 3.2C Norwood cpu. You might want to consider the DFI 875-T. It can accept 775 Prescotts while still using PC3200 and AGP vid cards.

http://www.spartantech.com/product.a...IND875PBZLKOEM

http://www.pcprogress.com/product.as...IND875PBZLKOEM

http://www.hypermicro.com/search_det...5PBZ&sp_flag=0

Pricewatch is going down the tubes. Call these guys and check.

-Ed

 

[gsferrari]

Thanks Guys

I will look up availability and order everything shortly. I am not willing to dump the CPU just to go latest and greatest...it is a nice CPU with more juice than I can care for...

Maybe December 2005 I will deck my desk with a latest and greatest...

This one is targeted at :

* Music
* Video
* HL2 / CSS / Splinter Cell CT etc.

 

[gsferrari]

One more Question :

What about the case? I dont need a GREAT looking case. Something that is functional and with enough power for all these parts that I am putting into it. Metal is better but I will listen to your advice...

Thanks!

gs

 

[gsferrari]

One more question:

The 6800 Ultra - is it PCI Express or AGP ??

Also...there seem to be 3 versions of the same MOBO...
http://www.hypermicro.com/search_det...5PBZ&sp_flag=0

Which one?

 

[Oink1]

Quote:

Originally Posted by gsferrari One more question: The 6800 Ultra - is it PCI Express or AGP ?? Also...there seem to be 3 versions of the same MOBO... http://www.hypermicro.com/search_det...5PBZ&sp_flag=0 Which one?

If you're going to go with the mobo Ed suggested then it's AGP - As for a case go for one with 120mm cooling You ears will thank you for it! (and the 6800 too!)

 

[gsferrari]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Oink1 If you're going to go with the mobo Ed suggested then it's AGP - As for a case go for one with 120mm cooling You ears will thank you for it! (and the 6800 too!)

Thanks...I think there is a Verto AGP 256MB DDR3 6800 Ultra for $430.00

Would you guys recommend something else? What is the performance jump going from 6800 OC to the 6800 Ultra?

 

[Oink1]

Quote:

Originally Posted by gsferrari Thanks...I think there is a Verto AGP 256MB DDR3 6800 Ultra for $430.00 Would you guys recommend something else? What is the performance jump going from 6800 OC to the 6800 Ultra?

You could save yourself some $$'s by buying the GT and then flashing it with the Ultra bios... Surf over here and check out the forums - all the pc info you'll need and then some!

 

[gsferrari]

thanks for the forum link.

gs

 

[Oink1]

Quote:

Originally Posted by gsferrari thanks for the forum link. gs

No problem mate

- they're a friendly bunch (usuall sprinkling of tw@ts) and someone will know the answer to every question you may have

*edit* - 's what i like to see - a man who wastes no time!