Help Dork get a Computer! [Archive]

Dorkandproudofit

10-23-2008, 01:41 AM

Well, the one I have been using has had it. I'm using my upstairs comp right now because the one downstairs--the one with everything I ever use for gaming online--won't even start up anymore. Therefore, I am going to buy a new one.

I do have preferences though--it needs to be as cheap as possible, while fulfilling the following requirements:

* It must be able to support virtually any online game, as well as AOL and a few other nongaming programs.

* It must be reliable enough that I won't have to have it checked out or fixed every month or so like the previous one.

* It should NOT have Windows or any other OS already installed that would take up a gigantic amount of space like XP does, and finally

* It needs to be fast.

I'm not quite sure what my price range is, but once I know, I'll post it and hopefully we can narrow things down a bit.

muddi900

10-23-2008, 02:05 AM

3.5 GB is "gigantic"? What is this 1997?

For your requirements, make a system your self. That's the only way to not have a pre-installed OS!

Some reccomendations:

Intel Core 2 Duo E7200 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115052)
Giagabyte EP31-DS3L (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813128334)(no onboard graphics)
Nvidia 9800GT (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814121268)

Raen

10-23-2008, 02:26 AM

Yeah I'd either build it yourself, or get a local shop to do you a custom job. Any big manufacturer are gonna install an OS for you. The only company I can think of that gives a non-Windows option is Dell, and they charge you more for installing Linux for some reason. If you haven't got a price limit I'd consider a Quad Core.

Dorkandproudofit

10-23-2008, 07:44 AM

Seriously, you guys need to stop talking computer nerd language. I can't build a computer, because I don't know JACK SHIT about computer hardware OR software.

Zrikz

10-23-2008, 08:34 AM

you dont really need to know anything.. its pretty much color coded and parts only fit in one spot, plus the motherboard comes with a manual =/ First time took me like 2 hours to build a PC getting all the power connectors hooked up right, now its like 30 mins.

give it a shot.

Raen

10-23-2008, 08:47 AM

Like I said have you got a local shop? They may well be able to do you something custom.

hunterx280

10-23-2008, 08:50 AM

If you don't know anything about computer hardware or software how are you going to get by without windows?

biosc1

10-23-2008, 09:53 AM

Seriously, you guys need to stop talking computer nerd language. I can't build a computer, because I don't know JACK SHIT about computer hardware OR software.

Do you know why the one downstairs stopped working? Could just be a power supply replacement, which is as easy as taking a screw driver and noting where everything is plugged in...unplugging it and throwing the new one in.

Otherwise:

Go here (http://www.playitreviewit.com/forums/showthread.php?t=200), order the suggested parts and then have someone build it.

Wraith

10-23-2008, 10:35 AM

If you want a cheap gaming system with no operating system? You do one of the following:

Buy a pre-built machine (Dell?) with the CPU and hard drive you want, buy a graphics card separately, wipe the OS and install what you want.
Build it yourself.
Have someone else build it for you.

Also, list what kind of system you were previously using, so we know what you'd be upgrading from.

itchyeyes

10-23-2008, 10:46 AM

Seriously, you guys need to stop talking computer nerd language. I can't build a computer, because I don't know JACK SHIT about computer hardware OR software.
You don't really need to know anything, just willing to learn. I didn't know anything when I built my first computer about a year and a half ago. An hour or two on Hardforum and you'll know pretty much all you need to. Building a PC is dead simple. 95% of it is just plugging things in. If you can set up a home theater system you can build a PC.

There's a reason a lot of people are going to recommend building it. It's a lot cheaper and, if you plan on using it for gaming, you'll get something much more suited to your needs than you would buying it from an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer, eg Dell, HP, etc...). In fact, if you've never done it before I probably recommend building it yourself even more. It's a great learning process, and teaches you a lot about these machines that we rely on for so many aspects of our lives now.

muddi900

10-23-2008, 10:53 AM

Building a PC is like changing the oil in your car.

pomeroy

10-23-2008, 12:36 PM

Seriously, you guys need to stop talking computer nerd language. I can't build a computer, because I don't know JACK SHIT about computer hardware OR software.

I like how you insult the very people you are asking for help.

J Arcane

10-23-2008, 12:39 PM

Seriously, you guys need to stop talking computer nerd language. I can't build a computer, because I don't know JACK SHIT about computer hardware OR software.
This is gonna be another one of those retarded threads where the OP pretends to ask for help and then bitches about any and every suggestion given before storming off in a huff, isn't it?

Ghostbear

10-23-2008, 12:44 PM

This is gonna be another one of those retarded threads where the OP pretends to ask for help and then bitches about any and every suggestion given before storming off in a huff, isn't it?

Sounds about right.

Smoof

10-23-2008, 01:05 PM

Cyberpower PC will build you a PC without an OS installed. I bought my laptop from them and I''m quite fond of it.

n3rdXcore

10-23-2008, 01:16 PM

Cyberpower PC will build you a PC without an OS installed. I bought my laptop from them and I''m quite fond of it.

I bought a PC from them in 03 and it was great, I recommend them.

Disgustipated

10-23-2008, 01:36 PM

Cyrillus

10-23-2008, 01:54 PM

If you don't know anything about computer hardware or software how are you going to get by without windows?

This was my question as well. Honestly, building a rig isn't that hard, it's just a lesson in manual reading/color-coordination/patience. Those "huge" OS' that you refer to are probably also the most easily plug-and-playable, which is what it seems you're after.

If you're not looking to build, Dell is the best of the pre-made companies, in my experience, simply because of their warranty being the most hassle free (again, IMO). Other than the service plans, parts are all "you get what you pay for".

Dorkandproudofit

10-23-2008, 05:12 PM

I like how you insult the very people you are asking for help.

How am I insulting anyone with that post? All I said was that I didn't understand what people were saying. I'm sorry if it seemed like an insult, but really, that's not what I meant it as.

This is gonna be another one of those retarded threads where the OP pretends to ask for help and then bitches about any and every suggestion given before storming off in a huff, isn't it?

Wait, what? Since when in this thread have I bitched about a suggestion, other than saying that I know nothing about computers? Pomeroy, if you're looking for an insult, you found one.

Back to the topic.

I'm still not sure about the price range, but from what you guys have told me, custom is the way to go. One more thing--I need some good specs for the custom build, and again, they should be as cheap as possible while maintaining good quality.

violent

10-23-2008, 05:16 PM

The best advice, learn. Learn how to put a pc together. If not, go to Best Buy and have the Douche Squad pick one out for you.

Disgustipated

10-23-2008, 05:34 PM

Also, Windows XP is a tiny OS. It's less than 5 GB's. With today's HDD's it's a blip on the map. That right there tells me you're a bit ignorant.

What, you were expecting to use DOS? ;)

violent

10-23-2008, 05:43 PM

Also, Windows XP is a tiny OS. It's less than 5 GB's. With today's HDD's it's a blip on the map. That right there tells me you're a bit ignorant.

What, you were expecting to use DOS? ;)

DOS is sexy. Shut up.

Raen

10-23-2008, 06:18 PM

What, you were expecting to use DOS? ;)

Who doesn't use DOS?

Loki

10-23-2008, 06:26 PM

Ask others for parts and then after they have arrived, check this (http://computer.howstuffworks.com/build-a-computer.htm).

And if that doesn't work, I recommend you buy the parts and buy me a plane ticket. I'll build the computer and fix the old one (if fixable).

harle

10-23-2008, 06:54 PM

I don't know if you have specified a price range yet, but:

HP Pavilion a6660t Desktop PC (http://www.shopping.hp.com/webapp/shopping/computer_series.do?storeName=computer_store&category=desktops&series_name=a6660t_series&a1=Brand&v1=HP+Pavilion&aoid=35252)

The total comes to $629.99 after using code DT7708

Operating system: Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium with Service Pack 1 (64-bit)
Processor: Intel(R) Core(TM) 2 Quad processor Q9300
Memory: 4GB DDR2-800MHz dual channel SDRAM (4x1024)
Graphics card: 256MB NVIDIA GeForce 9300 and TV Tuner Card/PVR
Hard drive: FREE UPGRADE! to 750GB 7200 rpm SATA 3Gb/s hard drive from 500GB
Networking: No additional (Ethernet LAN port on system board)
Primary DVD/CD drive: LightScribe 16X max. DVD+/-R/RW SuperMulti drive
Front Productivity Ports: 15-in-1 memory card reader, 2 USB, audio
Sound Card None (Integrated 7.1 channel sound w/ front audio ports)
Productivity software: Microsoft(R) Works 9.0 edit
Security software: No additional security software
Keyboard and Mouse: HP keyboard and HP optical mouse

pomeroy

10-23-2008, 07:14 PM

I don't know if you have specified a price range yet, but:

HP Pavilion a6660t Desktop PC

The total comes to $629.99 after using code DT7708

Operating system: Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium with Service Pack 1 (64-bit)
Processor: Intel(R) Core(TM) 2 Quad processor Q9300
Memory: 4GB DDR2-800MHz dual channel SDRAM (4x1024)
Graphics card: 256MB NVIDIA GeForce 9300 and TV Tuner Card/PVR
Hard drive: FREE UPGRADE! to 750GB 7200 rpm SATA 3Gb/s hard drive from 500GB
Networking: No additional (Ethernet LAN port on system board)
Primary DVD/CD drive: LightScribe 16X max. DVD+/-R/RW SuperMulti drive
Front Productivity Ports: 15-in-1 memory card reader, 2 USB, audio
Sound Card None (Integrated 7.1 channel sound w/ front audio ports)
Productivity software: Microsoft(R) Works 9.0 edit
Security software: No additional security software
Keyboard and Mouse: HP keyboard and HP optical mouse

Is it just me or is that a really decent system for that price?

Disgustipated

10-23-2008, 07:24 PM

Awesome PC for the price. Just needs a new videocard. Stick a 4850/4870 or a 9800 GT in there and wow.

Mr. Murphy

10-23-2008, 07:36 PM

I don't know if you have specified a price range yet, but:

HP Pavilion a6660t Desktop PC

The total comes to $629.99 after using code DT7708

Operating system: Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium with Service Pack 1 (64-bit)
Processor: Intel(R) Core(TM) 2 Quad processor Q9300
Memory: 4GB DDR2-800MHz dual channel SDRAM (4x1024)
Graphics card: 256MB NVIDIA GeForce 9300 and TV Tuner Card/PVR
Hard drive: FREE UPGRADE! to 750GB 7200 rpm SATA 3Gb/s hard drive from 500GB
Networking: No additional (Ethernet LAN port on system board)
Primary DVD/CD drive: LightScribe 16X max. DVD+/-R/RW SuperMulti drive
Front Productivity Ports: 15-in-1 memory card reader, 2 USB, audio
Sound Card None (Integrated 7.1 channel sound w/ front audio ports)
Productivity software: Microsoft(R) Works 9.0 edit
Security software: No additional security software
Keyboard and Mouse: HP keyboard and HP optical mouse

Am I missing something, or is that build missing a case, a mobo and a monitor?

Johan

10-23-2008, 07:37 PM

...needs a new videocard. Stick a 4850/4870 or a 9800 GT in there and wow.

The amazing thing (because I'm such a computer idiot) is that is exactly what I was thinking. 256 on board the video card isn't good enough. I got a 4850 with 512 and I'm quite contentedly, magically speeding along! :)

Raen

10-23-2008, 07:38 PM

Great price. I'd stick another HDD in to do a mirrored raid (I wouldn't want issues with that much data). And yeah, totally get a new graphics card, and you're looking good.

Dorkandproudofit

10-23-2008, 08:30 PM

Also, Windows XP is a tiny OS. It's less than 5 GB's. With today's HDD's it's a blip on the map. That right there tells me you're a bit ignorant.

What, you were expecting to use DOS? ;)

My old comp was so obsolete that XP took up nearly the entire HD. I had to use a second drive to use anything else, basically.

violent

10-23-2008, 08:34 PM

My old comp was so obsolete that XP took up nearly the entire HD. I had to use a second drive to use anything else, basically.

You'll be getting a larger hard drive this time around. 500gb goes for less than $100.

Disgustipated

10-23-2008, 09:33 PM

My old comp was so obsolete that XP took up nearly the entire HD. I had to use a second drive to use anything else, basically.

Ok so that means that a NEW PC will have the same size HDD? :rolleyes:

Logic.

Johan

10-23-2008, 10:00 PM

Dork, do what I did. Buy a stock computer that is PCI-Express. Replace the PSU (you'll have to on most stock computers, if you're adding/upgrading a video card) and install a 4850 or 4870 in there (PCI-Express...remember!). Get a Corsair PSU at 650W (a bit high, but I went a bit high to be safe; you could probably get by with 550W, but I wouldn't), and be sure before you buy it that you crack the case, check your stock PSU, and compare it to the one you'll buy for compatibility.

If I can do it, you can. After you've tinkered around a bit like this, you might be more comfortable taking the next step and doing a build. I'm not sure you should do a build first; some of your questions are even worse than mine would be. :) Good luck! I did the PSU and 4850 for $300 to get gaming. Well worth it. I also got a 22" Dell widescreen LCD. Awesome.

harle

10-23-2008, 10:15 PM

Am I missing something, or is that build missing a case, a mobo and a monitor?I forgot to add the link in my original post. :) The case and mobo is included, but there is no monitor. I have updated my OP with the link.

Edit: Dork, are there any specific online games you are looking to play? Being able to play virtually any online game means that you will need a beefy graphics card. Like others have said, getting a 4850 or GTX 260 would be a good choice.

Mr. Murphy

10-24-2008, 06:20 AM

I forgot to add the link in my original post. :) The case and mobo is included, but there is no monitor. I have updated my OP with the link.

I think I'm going to save up for a few weeks and buy this.

Dorkandproudofit

10-24-2008, 06:31 AM

Ok so that means that a NEW PC will have the same size HDD? :rolleyes:

Logic.

Again, Riley gets to make fun of ME for asking for help and not knowing anything about computers, and yet I'm the one accused of insulting people?

It makes no sense. :confused:

KingGorilla

10-24-2008, 06:58 AM

Again, Riley gets to make fun of ME for asking for help and not knowing anything about computers, and yet I'm the one accused of insulting people?

It makes no sense. :confused:

Pay him no mind, no one else does. I will hop onto grabbing that computer already posted and toss in say a Radeon 4850. There are a lot of good comps from the major builders, that you can do this with for a great price.

muddi900

10-24-2008, 07:04 AM

Zrikz

10-24-2008, 07:08 AM

Dork, buy the parts and drive on down to Asheville and we will put it together, together.. Franklin is only about 4.5 hrs away from Asheville =/

Buy me a sammich and we will call it even ;p

Dorkandproudofit

10-25-2008, 05:57 AM

Dork, buy the parts and drive on down to Asheville and we will put it together, together.. Franklin is only about 4.5 hrs away from Asheville =/

Buy me a sammich and we will call it even ;p

Actually, 4.5 hours is the amount of time it takes to get from Franklin to Knoxville. Then it's several more hours to Ashville. No thank you. :(

...Although, you're free to come here if you like. Just know that I'm a horrible slob. :D