GPU compatible motherboard question

Hi guys,

This is my first e-mail on this forum. I am planning on buying a gaming rig in a month or two and currently doing all the research I can to get the right rig. My earlier rig an AMD Athlon xp 2000+ along with Nvidia Geforce 6200 GPU was bought by a computer engineer 4 years ago. I didn’t know much on GPU’s then and was obviously disappointed when I found I could not run my games on high settings, some games would lag even on low settings. However, 4 years later after spending a lot of time on the internet checking reviews, understanding basics of GPU’s and seeing videos, I believe I have found the GPU I am looking for that can run the latest games on high settings, of course, taking into account a budget (150$ for graphic card).

It’s the EVGA GeForce 8800 GS Superclocked Video Card - 384MB GDDR3, PCI Express 2.0, SLI Ready, (Dual Link) Dual DVI, HDTV

Enough reviews on net have indicated that this is the best card when it comes to price for performance. BTW, I have no intention of over clocking and happy with running games on 1280 x 1024 resolution with everything set on very high, which this card promises to deliver.

Where I need your help

Having used AMD for 4 years I intend going for an AMD processor. My choice, the Phenom X4 9650 or 9750 or 9850 black edition. I need help in deciding the right compatible motherboard for the above GPU. One that supports SLI. If I could get suggestions on the right compatible motherboard I will be very grateful.

My other concerns are:

1. Phenom X4 processors have been reported to generate a lot of heat. In this case is a cooler a must or are there motherboards that can handle the heat?

2. If a cooler is required, which one would be the best bang for the money, I heard Zalman coolers are recommended, what is your opinion?

3. I was told by a computer tech that in the event of a high end system I would need a UPS with .8 KV capacity and a minimum 400W power supply. Is this reliable?

As a novice this is what I could come up with. I am open to suggestions if there are any. My overall budget for GPU + motherboard+ processor is 500$.

Thank you,
Shawn

Since you're not overclocking, you might as well not buy that Xigmatek cooler, or any other aftermarket cooler.

Add these other parts to your list:

RC-690 case $85+$22, Corsair 650TX PSU $90, WD3200AAKS $70
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] &Tpk=650tx
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6811119137
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] wd3200aaks

Mind you, the 650TX is great value for today's price of $90. If you're not buying today, and it gets back to the regular price of $160, ask again at that time. I wouldn't pay $160 for the 650TX.