Ok, go easy b/c this is my first build, put Vista on 'er. My buddy recommended most of these parts as I really had no idea what to pick. I was trying to keep it around $500, came close at $550. Thoughts/suggestions much appreciated, I'd be willing to return parts if you think it would really make a noticeable difference in performance. Its hooked up to my HDTV, primary uses are browsing, d/l of movies & music. Seems pretty fast to me though. Should I look into overclocking?
Another dumb question....should my fan be exhaust or intake?
The HTPC does what you want. The case comes with a 300W psu. Not a good make, but it works. As for the 80mm side fan, it should be intake cuz the psu has a fan that is exhaust.
It depends on how it's positioned. If it is vertical, the side fan should be intake cuz it'll pull cool air from the bottom. If it's horizontal, the side fan should be exhaust. There are 2 large vents for the cpu fan & mobo. Gen-speak, the manufacturer knows best. The default config will be fine.
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