First build ever

[dopira]

1. What YOUR PC will be used for. That means what types of tasks you'll be performing.

I'm trying to build a pc since I've sworn off dell. My current computer is a laptop with a 1.73 Ghz pentium M.
I'll be doing a lot of everything with this computer -- programming, gaming and watching movies mainly.

2. What YOUR budget is. A price range is acceptable as long as it's not more than a 20% spread

$1000

3. What country YOU will be buying YOUR parts from.

USA

4. IF YOU have a brand preference.

I have no real preference in parts, other than compatibility with linux (shouldn't be a problem though).

5. If YOU intend on using any of YOUR current parts, and if so, what those parts are.

I currently have a Q6600, D975Xbx2 motherboard and a giant thermaltake fan (someone at work was selling these items for ~350).

6. IF YOU have searched and/or read similar threads.

I have.

7. IF YOU plan on overclocking or run the system at default speeds.

I intend to overlock the CPU eventually.

8. WHEN do you plan to build it?

Plan to order the parts on Friday.


I've read a lot of the threads and I've come up with the following list:

Antec Sonata III 500 with 500w Power Supply

Western Digital Caviar SE16 640GB

Acer AL2216Wbd Black 22" 5ms Widescreen LCD Monitor with HDCP support - Retail

ASUS EAH4850/HTDI/512M Radeon HD 4850 512MB 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFire Supported Video Card - Retail

G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model F2-6400CL5D-4GBPQ - Retail

Logitech 920-000325 Black USB Wired Ergonomics Wave Keyboard - Retail

I was going to go with a 8800GT or GTS but the 4850 looks like a deal at $165.
I'm not sure about the case and the power supply -- will it be to small for my fan/heatsink? (it is one of those enormous ones, like this )

I was thinking dual monitors, not sure though. I also need speakers as well, any suggestions?

Am I doing something horribly wrong here? Is there some major problem that I am overlooking? Go easy on me, this is my first build.

 

[DSF]

Looks pretty solid. Honestly though, $350 was probably overpaying for those parts if they're used. No experience with the keyboard or monitor, but the other parts are pretty good choices.

 

[BTRY B 529th FA BN]

I'd upgrade the 4850 to a 4870 ...im so close to the impulsiveness for one

 

[dopira]

Isn't a 4870 almost twice as much? 4850 is $165 w/rebate and 4870 is $300

 

[BTRY B 529th FA BN]

are you asking or making a point?

 

[dopira]

Asking -- I'm not sure if there is some deal I'm not aware of

 

[DSF]

I wouldn't go for the 4870 on your budget.

 

[dopira]

Any other thoughts or comments? I will be ordering the parts tomorrow and want to be sure.

I have heard that nvidia offers better compatibility than ati in the past, I'm not sure if this is true however.

Any comments on dual 22's over a single 24? Speaker suggestions? General comments?

 

[BTRY B 529th FA BN]

If you have the money and it is within your budge, go for the 4870

 

[DSF]

Originally posted by: BTRY B 529th FA BN
If you have the money and it is within your budge, go for the 4870

Considering he has a $1000 budget that has to include a monitor, the 4870 is not a wise use of his money.