Mini ITX Build... can someone look over?

Gimpulse

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Nov 12, 2011
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18,510
Here is my proposed build. Would a few folks be kind enough to look it over and provide any criticsm that might save me some headaches? Thanks in advance.

- Curt


http://secure.newegg.com/WishList/PublicWishDetail.aspx?WishListNumber=22226667


EDIT: I suppose I should expand. In the past I have built a gaming rig, used it for four years, given it to my wife who uses it for four years, then it gets retired. This needs to fill a similar role. I don't plan on upgrading / expansion down the line, hence using up all the slots. This will be my first time working with Mini ITX. I am somewhat nervous about fitting that graphics card inside the case, but the product dimensions check out.
 
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I really like your build. Next time around, I will do the same.

1) As to ram, 1.5v is the norm, but 1.65 is the limit before you do permanent damage to your cpu.
It really is a moot point because the sandy bridge ram controllers are so good that there is minimal difference in real app performance or fps between 1600 ram and anything faster.
Think 1-2%.

I suggest this kit of ddr3 1600 g.skil. The heat spreaders(which are largely useless) are not too tall.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231314

2) Will you use an aftermarket cooler? The stock Intel cooler is ok up to a point, but it gets noisy when it spins up under load. You will need a low profile cooler since the psu gets in the way of a tower type...
Mini-ITX is so interesting . Im tempted to build one one day

You have done well but you do have one mistake in your build . RAM must be 1.5 volt [ or less] or it can potentially damage sandy bridge processors .
Your power supply will work but a 600+ watt unit would be operating under less stress .

If you want an even smaller case have a look at the silverstone SG07 which incleds a psu
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811163169

 
I really like your build. Next time around, I will do the same.

1) As to ram, 1.5v is the norm, but 1.65 is the limit before you do permanent damage to your cpu.
It really is a moot point because the sandy bridge ram controllers are so good that there is minimal difference in real app performance or fps between 1600 ram and anything faster.
Think 1-2%.

I suggest this kit of ddr3 1600 g.skil. The heat spreaders(which are largely useless) are not too tall.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231314

2) Will you use an aftermarket cooler? The stock Intel cooler is ok up to a point, but it gets noisy when it spins up under load. You will need a low profile cooler since the psu gets in the way of a tower type. SPCR used a Scythe Samurai ZZ coolerin their review:
http://www.silentpcreview.com/lianli-pcq08

I love the red color, I used it in a V351 build.

3) I would agree with outlander-04 that a touch stronger psu would be a bit better. Look to Seasonic, XFX, Corsair, PC P&C, and Antec for quality units.
This time of year, you can get some good deals. A silver or gold rated efficient unit will be quieter. Also, I see your pic was modular. That is ok, but you will be using most of the leads anyway. I see modular as a plus, but not a requirement.
 
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