Hey guys, im an experienced builder, or so ide like to think so, been building computers for around 4 years now, im 18, i've build about 5 or 6 desktop mid or full tower pc's and now i think im going to start on my first micro ATX build. A kid in my dorm asked me if i could build him a PC for relatively cheap that would run pretty decent. So i started looking at cases and have no idea where to start. Im use to having alot of room in my full tower case with liquid cooling so heat was never an issue for me. Any advice you guys have for me would be great. Things i was thinking about puttin in it are as follows.
For the motherboard im really stuck on this part, I usually just get a decent AM3 board with a big ass 260 in it but now that space is an issue im looking at integrated graphics VS non integrated. I can't really figure this out, its kinda a budget build but i don't want it to be completely shitty, HD quality playing is a must!
I really like that case and how easy it is, i also have a 160gb hdd, and a DVD/CD burner, but they dont need to be linked because they are not that important. Any input would be greatly appreciated, i know i can always rely on tomshardware!
It would help if you followed the format in the "How to ask for new build advice" sticky at the top of the forum. What will the computer be used for? What is the budget for the build? What's included in that budget? I wouldn't rely on the PSU included in that Apevia case. These cases come with decent power supplies:
Sorry guys, i ment to put all that stuff in, i was working on some homework while doing research for this and forgot to add all that stuff in.
The main purpose for the PC is to be a small PC used for basic internet useage, torrenting, and video playback. I never really understood what a HTPC is, I know its a home theater personal computer, but what is real purpose for it.
My budget is basically as small as i can make it with out being a POS, Ide like to stick wt a $400 range but then again i dont want it to be a POS. I have a notebook for school, and my other home built PC for gaming. This is just because ive never built a micro ATX pc and im a Computer engineering major and ive learned 90% of what i know from building comps and trouble shooting.
You can save a lot of money on the RAM by going with a DDR2 mobo over a DDR3 mobo. For what he is doing, you won't notice a difference in speed at all. Also, the integrated card can easily handle 1080p video playback.