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First mATX build


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#1
drmoneejd

drmoneejd

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First off I'll say I know this wont be amazing, but I'm giving it as a gift to my grandmother who probably wont use it for more than netflix, web browsing, and typing, and who is still using an emachines with 512 RAM and a sempron. I've built a few computers, some for myself and a few in some classes (but all full ATX), but its been awhile and I want to make sure it'll run pretty fast. Also I will probably be running XP on it (I don't know if she'd really want to adjust to a new OS). Please let me know any suggestions or if I should change anything.


Case/PSU
Mobo/CPU
RAM
DVD Burner

I already have the HDD, its a Western Digital sata 320gb drive. A tad older but barely used and a place to save money.
I know some might not the the RAM is great, but it may be 32 bit, in which anymore is pointless. I'm trying to keep it under 200-250 (I contemplated for awhile if I should build or buy). Thanks for your input! :)
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#2
Digerati

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The problem with many cases is they toss in cheap, no-name PSUs. I would not trust that PSU.

While she may be used to XP, XP was designed over 10 years ago when security was an after thought. You should put Window 7 64-bit on it. There's nothing wrong with that RAM. But even if not using more than 4Gb, I would still put 64-bit Windows on it. 32-bit is phasing out and 64-bit is here to stay, and 64-bit Windows 7 has more security features than the 32-bit version.
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#3
drmoneejd

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Yeah, you're right. XP is good, but I guess it is getting pretty out dated. And I completely agree about 32 bit, I wouldn't even consider 32 bit if I didn't already have them from my past bought computers. Looks like I'll be buying instead. It's almost impossible to build a decent computer and buy Win7 (any version) for $250. Thanks for the input though!
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#4
Digerati

Digerati

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It's almost impossible to build a decent computer and buy Win7 (any version) for $250.

That's true. When the big makers can buy a 1,000,000 sticks of RAM at bulk prices, there's way individual builders can compete in price.
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