Hello my fellow techies!
I have a friend (a 65 year old woman) who is in need of a new computer for a good price. She needs something that can handle the basics (web, MS Office, watching DVD's, etc.). I have been researching and researching, but I still need some input.
1. What is the best processor for under $100? I have a Pentium D E2160 that I've overclocked and been very happy with, but I don't want to complicate (or compromise) her system with an OC. I was also considering Athlons, but are there any in that range that are better than the Intel's in that range?
2. What motherboard would you recommend, under $100? I would prefer built in HD audio, along with room for two optical drives, and two HDD's, and at least a 4 slots for DDR2 6700.
3. 2 gig DDR2 RAM under $50?
4. What cases for under $75?
5. PSU under $100? I'm thinking an Antec 400W or so.
6. What do you recommend on a good (fully equipped for reading and writing all CD and DVD formats) DVD drive? Preferably SATA, but PATA could be okay.
7. What are some good speakers for $75 or less?
8. Finally, I need some recommendations on a 19" widescreen LCD monitor.
With all of these, the cheaper the better, as long as I'm still buying solid components.
I have a friend (a 65 year old woman) who is in need of a new computer for a good price. She needs something that can handle the basics (web, MS Office, watching DVD's, etc.). I have been researching and researching, but I still need some input.
1. What is the best processor for under $100? I have a Pentium D E2160 that I've overclocked and been very happy with, but I don't want to complicate (or compromise) her system with an OC. I was also considering Athlons, but are there any in that range that are better than the Intel's in that range?
2. What motherboard would you recommend, under $100? I would prefer built in HD audio, along with room for two optical drives, and two HDD's, and at least a 4 slots for DDR2 6700.
3. 2 gig DDR2 RAM under $50?
4. What cases for under $75?
5. PSU under $100? I'm thinking an Antec 400W or so.
6. What do you recommend on a good (fully equipped for reading and writing all CD and DVD formats) DVD drive? Preferably SATA, but PATA could be okay.
7. What are some good speakers for $75 or less?
8. Finally, I need some recommendations on a 19" widescreen LCD monitor.
With all of these, the cheaper the better, as long as I'm still buying solid components.