Please check this build, I'm new to this...

[jonquik7]

I'm going to be beginning a graduate program this coming fall and I need a computer. I thought I would build a computer and learn something while I'm at it.

I'm also on a budget so I'm trying to get everything around $1000.

Timeline: Build as soon as possible!

Primary uses for this computer:

1. Homework
2. Statistical Analysis
3. Some beginner programming
4. Web development

Here it is:

Case: Antec Three Hundred Black Computer Case-:$60

CPU: AMD Phenom II X4 955
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?item=N82E16819103808

Video Card: PowerColor Go! Green AX5450-$40
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?item=N82E16814131339

Motherboard: MSI 870A-G54 ATX AMD Motherboard-$95
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?item=N82E16813130275

Memory: G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 4GB-$60
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?item=N82E16820231303

Hard Drive: SAMSUNG Spinpoint F4 HD204UI 2TB-$80
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?item=N82E16822152245

Power Supply: Antec BP550 Plus 550W Continuous Power Power Supply-$65

Optical Drive: ASUS 24X DVD Burner - Bulk Black SATA Model DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS-$20
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?item=N82E16827135204

Heat sink: COOLER MASTER Hyper 212 Plus-$35
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?item=N82E16835103065

Tower Total Price: $600

Let me know what you think!

 

[jerreddredd]

even though you have answered quite a few of the questions that this form asks, please fill is out and post so that we can better assist you.

http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/forum/261222-13-build-advice


a couple of things I noticed is:
For your stated use, the CPU's stock cooler will be fine, so you don't need the CM Hyper 212.

Do you need OS, monitor(s)? I notice their absence in you parts list.

Also, you chose an ATX MB and an ATX mid tower case. you could save some money and space with mATX components or even ITX.

Your video card is pretty weak, though your stated needs don't require much. One thing to consider is whether you might use dual monitors. My son multi-tasks a lot while he does homework. uses one screen to look up stuff on internet and has MSWord with his current assignment open on the other. so you might consider upgrading your video card to something with dual DVI outs and buying 2 monitors. If not you can save some $ by selecting one with onboard video (HD 42xx series or something).

Also, would you consider an Intel mb/cpu solution? the LGA 1155 Sandy Bridge (SB) is the new in thing. even the lowest priced SB CPU is as powerful as the AMD CPU you picked out. I'm not saying AMD is a bad CPU for your purpose, just that SB is the current technology that's out right now.

just food for thought. Please repost with the build advice form, so we can make some solid recommendations.