first time comp builder -- lots of questions

[Quad]

first time building a comp, and i think i know all the basics...
i'm planning on a tbird 900 or 950. what kind of power supply will i need? will 250w do or do i need 350? also, just thinking about building this worries me cuz there's so many probs i can run into. what are the most common problems that ppl run into? and where can i find out how to fix em? last thing, anyone know of a decent guide to building a comp from start to finish?

thanks all

 

[IamDavid]

For the power supply I would go with the 350..
If ya run into any problems (and everyone does) just post here and someone will help ya out. This is where I first started.. There are many guides to build a computer but I think they are a waste of money.. Just dive in and start building.. Good Luck..

 

[Ryan]

Hmm, I would go with 300-350watts for the power supply. Hmm, I thihk you can buy an Idiot's Guide to Building Computers book, which is supposed to be recently revised (I think in november) so it should include some information on athlon stuff too.

 

[Ulysses]

1. Get an AMD-approved power supply, like the Antec PP403X (which is widely available), and an AMD-approved CPU cooler, like the GlobalWIN FOP32-1.

2. As far as building an AMD-based PC goes, check AMD's Guide. There are many other guides available on the web.

3. As for picking components see AnandTech's High-End and Value oriented Buyer's Guides.

 

[inqztive]

AMD had a complte guide in downlaodable PDF format on their website for free. That's actually a pretty good guide. I am not sure if they still have it there. But it worth looking for it as you are going to use AMD processors only. And yes 350W is must.

 

[DugnDog]

Quad,

I'm just a couple of steps ahead of you in the building process and I have to say that these Anandtecher's are tremendous. I've learned a lot and avoided mucho problems.

IMHO, best way to start is to just take some time to scan through these forums. Also, here are some links that I have found helpful.

Here, here and here

By the way, power and cooling are big deals with Athlons. Majority opinion here is that its best to go with a 300W or better AMD approved power supply (AMD Recommendations) especially as you get into the faster cpu's. Also, pay attention to cpu cooling fans and case airflow.

 

[crash2much]

Enermax makes a sweeeeeeet Amd perfect(in my opinion) power supply! 2 fans, one sits right over the processor. And they're not that expensive and very quiet. Anyway, 300watt min. Here's a couple of tips for ya(as I've learned the hard way) Sorry if you already heard/know these things, but here it goes. These tips mainly apply if your ordering off the net
1) Know if what your getting is OEM or Retail. Retail cost more, but less headaches should you need replacement or tech support.
2) Check reviews on your componant wishlist before you buy.
3)not all chip sets are created equal !!! A kt133 chipset from one manufacture may not work the same from another. Same for video cards
4) Use reputable dealers
5) Spend the $$$$. Don't settle for something because it's cheaper, then replace it 3 month later.
Hope I'm not being preachy, I've just been burned a couple of times
Good luck

 

[lonewolfz28]

Ulysses,
The link you gave sent me to the "Slot A" builders guide. There is another guide for "Socket A" builders that would probably be of more use. It's here. But thanks for the link anyways. I'm looking to build my first system this spring and like quad I've got a lot of questions. Thanks for getting me on the right track. Didn't even think AMD would have a builders guide.