Putting together your own comp.

[CAFedm]

It's still early to look around for a decent computer setup that can run FSX well. While doing some "window shopping" it is evident that my trusty computer shop may not have anything near what would be optimal (e.g., the RAM is good, but the processor is poor, or other key elements are just not there or would require major upgrading - something I do NOT wish to do if buying a new system). Anyway, am now tempted to build my own for the very first time, but am not that savvy as to know what all would be required to have to purchase. It would also be a lot easier to pick up certain items as they become available along the way (e.g., the 8800 vid card is on sale here for about $550 CDN, and seems a good bet for FSX). This would help spread out the costs somewhat. Wondering if there are any tutorials available for novices putting their first computer system together, or if anyone knows of a good link for help.

[flymo]

i learnt from a combination of my dad and the motherboard book generaly tells you where everything goes and things so its not to hard, just takes quite a bit of confidence to do for the first time as your afraid of snapping the cpu or something, but that never happens anymore

but if u look in CTjoyce's sig you will find some links to videos about makeing your own system. never watched up so dnt know if they are any good but im sure they are

[legoalex2000]

there is plenty of online Help, but if you want Live help, both CTJoyce and I are experienced in the computer building business. we can tell you what goes where, what pins to use on the motherboard, and most certainly give advice on the best combination of computer parts. both CJ and I collabrated and have an optimal budget system with the latest technology and low price.

find us and we'll help you out!

Ramos - back in the hardware groove

[CAFedm]

Thanks guys, I'm earmarking this post and will be in touch when the time comes. Appreciate the help.

[Viper22]

There are quite a few of us on simviation who have put together our own computers.  The comp I am currently running was my first build.  check ctjoyces hardware faq (its stickied)  and it tells you lots of information you need to know.  the good thing about building your own computers is that it is satisfying once it works, and usually much cheaper.  however, if something goes wrong, all you have is the warranty on your parts and the advice of others to help you.

[Keep It Simple]

Building your own computer is definately the way to go as you can pick and choose every componernt for the sys.

As stated, there are plenty of tutorials to explain everything to you.

Just a couple of comments for your first build.

1) Check and double check every connection before powering up for the first time.
2) If it doesnt POST the fist time, don't panic!
In the vast majority of cases, it is only something you overlooked and not bad hardware.
3) It is all fairly simple and once you do it, you will never buy a pre built sys again.

BTW...
I usually build a sys as follows:

1) Get a good idea about what CPU an MOBO you want.
2) Decide on a case and Power supply.
3) determine what RAM to get acording to what MOBO you decided on.
These are the basics and all the other hardware needed

[Viper22]

BTW, I woild not even consider buliding a new sys without a floppy drive as they are stil very handy at times
I suggest you add one also.  :)

lol i forgot to buy a floppy drive when i built mine, and i ran into a few problems cause i couldn't flash the bios and stuff, so definitely remember to buy one

[CAFedm]

Thanks again everyone, this has all been very helpful, and given me the courage to build a new rig from the ground up.

[beaky]

Be brave by all means, but take your time.
Most important -and challenging- part, probably, is making certain that all the components you've selected are compatible.

My first build, other than being obsolete before I finished building it, went without a hitch, which kind of astounded me. Nothing better than that moment when it actually powers up without bursting into flames... and then POSTS!!

Of course, my second build is still sidelined... I think my mobo is bad.  :'(

So remember: patience; step by step, and yes- don't freak if it doesn't work at first.

[Bubblehead]

I'm in the process of building a new PC from the scratch. I've done this before a couple of times but I need to refresh my memory. To start with perhaps one can give me his/her opinion of the possible choices I have.
1.    Asus Crosshair vs. M2N32-SLI Deluxe/Wireless ($240.00 vs. $210.00)
2.    AMD Athlon 64 X2 5000+ or Athlon FX
3.    To SLI now or later?
4.    The on board sound seemed topnotch. Will a different (Audigy) sound card make any difference
5.    I'd like to install a Raptor 10K RPM 16M buffer 74 Gig for my main (OS) drive but install all other programs in another
      SATA 500Gig drive. Is this a prudent move?

I intend to install the other non-essential accessories after I am satisfied that the new system is operating satisfactorily.

One last but most important thing. Can someone describe the sequence for the initial bootup including fdisking and installation of the OS (Vista).

Thanks.

Bubblehead

[richardd43]

Here is an 8800 GTS for $490 CDN....  I deal with this company on a regular basis and have never had a problem.

http://www.memoryexpress.com/index.php? ... =9217&SID=