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[Solved] $750 HTPC Build Help

Forum Homebuilt Systems : New System Build - [Solved] $750 HTPC Build Help

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Best answer from shortstuff_mt.

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Hey guys, I’m not a gamer but would like your input on this HTPC.

BUDGET RANGE: 750 MAX after rebates but the cheaper the better.

SYSTEM USAGE: Multi-tasking. I usually have a poker client (12 tables), smallish SQL database, music, IE, and a few AHK scripts running. I occasionally watch movies/ Netflix but have no intentions of gaming. That’s about the maximum load I will put on the computer. The system should also be able to support dual 24 inch monitors via HDMI.

PARTS NOT REQUIRED: keyboard, mouse, monitor, speakers, OS, DVD burner.

PREFERRED WEBSITE(S) FOR PARTS: In the U.S. so any legitimate site where I can get any problems resolved in a reasonable time frame.

PARTS PREFERENCES: HIGH QUALITY PARTS ONLY. This needs to last for a while so I don’t want any cheapo parts that crap out after a year.

OVERCLOCKING: If you think I should. SLI OR CROSSFIRE: No

MONITOR RESOLUTION: 1920x1080

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: Basically all I need is a fast reliable general computer that will last +3 years. I would prefer something that runs cool and quiet. This will be my first build so any parts that are builder friendly would be appreciated.

I don’t really understand what features I need on a mobo.

I think I would prefer an Intel CPU (because of the lower temp) but I’m open to suggestions

APPROXIMATE PURCHASE DATE: I probably won’t purchase all of the components until after Thanksgiving but would like to keep my eye out for deals and ask some questions until then.


Thanks for the help in advance this forum is crazy helpful.

I agree with build, an AMD system would work best for your intended use. I don't know why you think AMD chips run hot. The Athlon CPU will run cool. You could even step up to a quad core since you'll be running an SQL database in the background. You could also get an AM3 motherboard and DDR3 RAM if you want to make it a little more "future proof".

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Comb [...] mbo.276969 $178.99 (AMD Athlon II X2 250 + Gigabyte GA-MA785GMT-UD2H combo)

G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1333 (PC3 10666) Desktop Memory Model F3-10666CL7D-4GBRH - Retail $89.99

Those components only add $55 to the build and would be a very nice upgrade.
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AMD Athlon II X2 250 Regor 3.0GHz
+
GIGABYTE GA-MA785GM-US2H AM3/AM2+/AM2 785G
Combo Price: $133.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Comb [...] mbo.273664

OCZ Flex II 4GB (2 x 2GB) DDR2 1150mhz - $79.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6820227299

CORSAIR CMPSU-400CX 400W - $49.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6817139008

COOLER MASTER Elite 330 - $39.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6811119115

SAMSUNG Spinpoint F3 HD103SJ 1TB - $79.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6822152185

Total = $383.95


You'll be fine with the onboard graphics, I know it only has 1 HDMI out but there's no video card out there with 2 HDMI outputs anyway. You'll just have to make do with an adapter such as this http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6812186016

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Best answer

I agree with build, an AMD system would work best for your intended use. I don't know why you think AMD chips run hot. The Athlon CPU will run cool. You could even step up to a quad core since you'll be running an SQL database in the background. You could also get an AM3 motherboard and DDR3 RAM if you want to make it a little more "future proof".

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Comb [...] mbo.276969 $178.99 (AMD Athlon II X2 250 + Gigabyte GA-MA785GMT-UD2H combo)

G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1333 (PC3 10666) Desktop Memory Model F3-10666CL7D-4GBRH - Retail $89.99

Those components only add $55 to the build and would be a very nice upgrade.

Reply to shortstuff_mt
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