CPU & System Upgrade

[vitta21]

Hello everyone,

I am new to building my own system and would like to ask a few questions around this area. Firstly i own a CM Storm Case with dell 530s mobo with DualCore E5800 @stock speed (thanx to the very nice people at dell), 4x1 GB DDR2 800mhz and Asus HD6670 and 250gb Seagate and 1tb samsung hdd and OCZ modxtream 600w psu. I am not a hardcore gamer just a normal gamer but i love to multitask i.e. I produce music, browse the net, edit audio files etc at the same . as you propably could tell my pc is a bit slow for todays standard so i am looking to upgrade. However I am on a tight budget...

I was lucky enough to get my hands on a GB-890GPA AM3(says it supports AM3+ with bios updates) from a friend which saved me a lot of money... so i would like to know which is my best choice of cpu value for money that will work on this board and if it is worthwhile to do this?

Should I go for the heavily critisized BD FX series ?and if yes which one? ?? will the MB support the CPU ???

or should i go for and X4 Phenom???

Last case wait upgrade to and Intel Sandybridge once Ivybridge is releases???

I plan to keep all the other components i.e. cpu, psu but need to obviously upgrade the memory to DDR3...

THANX everyone in advance!!

 

[Rockdpm]

Phenom, but get if you get Phenom, get the high end, best chance of lasting longest.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103923
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103727
Phenom X6: There is currently only one remaining Phenom X6 on the market unless you find a Open Box or used one. And i would rather have a Phenom X4 then the X6 option. So Don't get BULDOZER, because its Bull Crap. Trust me, i have one. As for the Motherboard. thats a OK mobo i like the new AM3+ board with the User Interface but, i wouldn't try Updating Bios just to run a AM3+ chip. As for Graphics, a 7770 if your ATI or a GTX 560 ti will be perfect for you.

Memory: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231308

Done!

 

[maxinexus]

$116.99 after 10off promo
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103893
You probably need to get new cooler as well. The retail stock is just useless so it is better to get OEM CPU and get aftermarket cooler. Also this one is 3.5 black edition...adjust multiplier from 17.5 to 19 to get it to 3.8 Ghz easy overclock anything higher you have to play with voltages.
Here is great cooler:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835103057

As for the memories: $30.49 after 10%off promo and $10 mail in rebate
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820220558

Since you budget is tight no need to wait for ivy...

Also new FX4170 looks interesting but little more expensive
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819106009&Tpk=fx4170

 

[vitta21]

lol..i have been reading the reviews about the BD that its crap for some reason!!! however it is cheaper and i am tempted !! dont know however how it will run with the mobo! so you think that i should play it safe and go for the X4...plus if i understand it correclty with this MB it will unlock the 2 extra cores and be a 6 core which is great 4 multitasking right?
Also i was thinking along the road to save up and get a value SSD like the OCZ agility 3 do u think that it is a good ssd for its $$$

 

[laircouk]

To keep everything simple, just go for the X4 Phenom. That will provide enough power for multi-tasking and playing games which are not heavy, heavy.

Secondly, about SSD drive, please, PLEASE avoid SANDFORCE SSD drive! They are considered unstable! I am not joking... please...

If I were you, I would go for non-sandforce SSD...

 

[vitta21]

To keep everything simple, just go for the X4 Phenom. That will provide enough power for multi-tasking and playing games which are not heavy, heavy.

Secondly, about SSD drive, please, PLEASE avoid SANDFORCE SSD drive! They are considered unstable! I am not joking... please...

If I were you, I would go for non-sandforce SSD...

haha and what should i go for eventually??

 

[laircouk]

If you want capacity, I would recommend 128GB SSD for Windows OS as BOOT.
If you want smaller capacity, you should go for 64GB SSD.

Crucial M4: http://www.crucial.com/store/ssd.aspx

64GB ----
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B004W2JKWG/ref=s9_simh_gw_p147_d0_g147_i4?pf_rd_m=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=10RCNWTZ2A0S2N250MW1&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=467128533&pf_rd_i=468294

128GB ---
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Crucial-CT128M4SSD2-128GB-M4-SSD/dp/B004W2JKZI/ref=sr_1_1?s=computers&ie=UTF8&qid=1331829414&sr=1-1

If you want another brand (which I use for my laptop), then choose Kingston. However, they are a little more expensive than Crucial. But, provides the same / similar chipset as Crucial.

Secondly, they are easier to update - ie: firmware updates. All you need is to burn ISO images and update through DVD drives.

Kingston SSD V100 64GB / 128GB

64GB ----
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Kingston-V100-SATA2-2-5inch-Drive/dp/B004BNT0OY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1331829053&sr=8-1

128GB ---
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Kingston-128GB-SATA2-2-5inch-Drive/dp/B004BNWIFM/ref=sr_1_2?s=computers&ie=UTF8&qid=1331829128&sr=1-2

 

[vitta21]

If you want capacity, I would recommend 128GB SSD for Windows OS as BOOT.
If you want smaller capacity, you should go for 64GB SSD.

Crucial M4: http://www.crucial.com/store/ssd.aspx

If you want another brand (which I use for my laptop), then choose Kingston. However, they are a little more expensive than Crucial. But, provides the same / similar chipset as Crucial.

Secondly, they are easier to update - ie: firmware updates. All you need is to burn ISO images and update through DVD drives.

Kingston SSD V100 64GB / 128GB

64GB ----
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Kingston-V100-SATA2-2-5inch-Drive/dp/B004BNT0OY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1331829053&sr=8-1

128GB ---
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Kingston-128GB-SATA2-2-5inch-Drive/dp/B004BNWIFM/ref=sr_1_2?s=computers&ie=UTF8&qid=1331829128&sr=1-2

I see.. I really appreciate the info!!! and i have been reading about a lot of BSOD the OCZ has...so Crucial is more reliable then?!!!

 

[laircouk]

I see.. I really appreciate the info!!! and i have been reading about a lot of BSOD the OCZ has...so Crucial is more reliable then?!!!

Yes, they are reliable. Please read some reviews about their SSD. They don't use SandForce.

http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/m4-ssd-capacity-comparison,2957.html

If you try and go towards OCZ forum, you will eventually see a lot of BAD reviews and comments from various user regarding SandForce issue, freeze, BSOD (which you mentioned).

P.S. By the way, just to let you know that I will also be ordering 256GB Crucial M4 (x2) for University. It's for heavy duty rendering and multi-tasking.

 

[vitta21]

$116.99 after 10off promo

Here is great cooler:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835103057

I live in the UK unfortunetely and this costs aroudn $80+ .. :S so thats a bit out my budget....any other recomendations for a cool n quiter (i hear the stock fan is like a factory)

 

[maxinexus]

I run 6 sanforce series SSD in my home and zero issues...for the past 2 years.
Anyway go for Phenom II x4 and avoid OCZ SSD ...good luck

 

[vitta21]

Yes, they are reliable. Please read some reviews about their SSD. They don't use SandForce.

http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/m4-ssd-capacity-comparison,2957.html

If you try and go towards OCZ forum, you will eventually see a lot of BAD reviews and comments from various user regarding SandForce issue, freeze, BSOD (which you mentioned).

P.S. By the way, just to let you know that I will also be ordering 256GB Crucial M4 (x2) for University. It's for heavy duty rendering and multi-tasking.

Awesome!!!!!!!!! i will look into that!! thanks a lot cause i was really thinking about the OCZ but now I will triple think it...for some reason i thought the crucial wasnt any good,..!!!

 

[laircouk]

I live in the UK unfortunetely and this costs aroudn $80+ .. :S so thats a bit out my budget....any other recomendations for a cool n quiter (i hear the stock fan is like a factory)

You live in the UK? No problem, check these dogs out!

Xigmatek Aegir SD128264
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Xigmatek-CAC-SXHH6-U02-SD128264-Double-Cooling/dp/B00431M352/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1331830251&sr=8-1

Cheaper Heatsink: Xigmatek Gaia SD1283 H.D.T
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Xigmatek-CAC-SXHH3-U06-SD1283-Cooling-System/dp/B00432M068/ref=sr_1_1?s=computers&ie=UTF8&qid=1331830363&sr=1-1

These heatsink are universal. They support LGA775/ 1156/ 1366/ 1155/ 2011 & AMD AM2/ AM3/ FM1 motherboard.

Here is Xigmatek official link: http://www.xigmatek.com/product.php?productid=104&type=overview (that is Xigmatek Gaia SD1283)

 

[maxinexus]

try this cooler...better than stock for sure

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/offer-listing/B002D2E8DI/ref=sr_1_3_olp?s=computers&ie=UTF8&qid=1331830506&sr=1-3&condition=new

 

[laircouk]

try this cooler...better than stock for sure

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/offer-listing/B002D2E8DI/ref=sr_1_3_olp?s=computers&ie=UTF8&qid=1331830506&sr=1-3&condition=new

Maxinex, lets keep it simple. (Not to offend you or anything)

Apart from that, Xigmatek now provides easier mounts + brackets for AMD / Intel user. Please read their user manual... easy - peasy to install. Nevertheless, it also has anti-vibration pads for your workstation.

http://www.xigmatek.com/product.php?productid=104&type=support

 

[vitta21]

ok thanx a lot guyz !! you have been of great help...I have one last question ! will the coolers fit in my Case???

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Storm-Mid-Tower-Scout-Case/dp/B0027YSEBE/ref=sr_1_1?s=computers&ie=UTF8&qid=1331832392&sr=1-1

 

[laircouk]

Hey, my friend has that CASE! Woah!!! You are lucky to have that case...

Anyway, yes, all coolers which are posted from maxinexus and I will fit nicely.
My friend still use this cooler. It's BIG AS HELL!

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Coolermaster-V8-Cooler-RR-UV8-XBU1-GP-Fan/dp/B001KUV2KQ/ref=sr_1_8?s=computers&ie=UTF8&qid=1331832728&sr=1-8

 

[vitta21]

Hey, my friend has that CASE! Woah!!! You are lucky to have that case...

Anyway, yes, all coolers which are posted from maxinexus and I will fit nicely.
My friend still use this cooler. It's BIG AS HELL!

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Coolermaster-V8-Cooler-RR-UV8-XBU1-GP-Fan/dp/B001KUV2KQ/ref=sr_1_8?s=computers&ie=UTF8&qid=1331832728&sr=1-8

its cool..definetely value case as I see it.. (upgraded from dell vostro 200 case PP) easy to move around, before i get a smart tv and use Plex media server i would carry it daily to the tv!!!

 

[laircouk]

its cool..definetely value case as I see it.. (upgraded from dell vostro 200 case PP) easy to move around, before i get a smart tv and use Plex media server i would carry it daily to the tv!!!

Yep, from what I see from Dell, they completely lock user from taking out parts or upgrading it. They locked the parts real tight. ¬.¬

You are a multimedia user? Woah... that size (case) should be enough if you are going to move around frequently.

Like me, it's a lot worse... my course is mayhem. I will need to completely refurbish my bedroom, knock down the toilet and join both room as an office.
I will also need to buy more things for my course. T.T Talk about suicidal £6000+++

Good Luck with your build!

 

[jimpz]

A word of caution/reminder, if you are changing the motherboard & your OS is the original OEM version from Dell, you're going to need to buy a new version of Windows. The Oem versions (dell, Hp, etc.) are all tied to the motherboard & you are not going to be able to activate it. Odds are changing from a Dell/Intel mobo to an AMD mobe, the system will not even boot because of driver issues.

Jim

 

[vitta21]

hahahhaa! yeah mulitmedia user!!! ;D what course are u on anyways lol!!!!!!!!!!! I had no idea i had to buy a new version of windows :SSS that sucks!! knocks my budget of1!!!!!

 

[laircouk]

Hi Vitta, I sent you a PM...

By the way, I will be studying "Multimedia Development" (Full Time) @ RGU. It's going to be K.O if I am not organize.

Apart from that, I already got my list with a little help from the community on this forum. Even worse, my workstation will need ATi Firepro V8800 (2gb) and Workstation size case for the course... it's insane, I know... XD

Third, regarding CPU heatsink upgrade, you will need Isopropyl Alcohol (86% ~ 90%), Micro Fibre Cloth (Get some of them!) and good grade Q-tips (stuff which you use to clean your ears with).

Anti-Static Cloth
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Cleaning-Cleaner-Cameras-Panasonic-Washable/dp/B001IU38HI/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1331887398&sr=8-7

Isopropyl Alcohol
http://www.amazon.co.uk/ISOPROPANOL-Isopropyl-Alcohol-99-9%25-250ml/dp/B003D8QFQO/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1331887858&sr=1-2

I don't know about Q-Tips... there is a bunch of them in the market, tesco, asda. However, don't grab cheap ones as they will leave lint / fleks behind.

Finally, when applying thermal grease, please don't spread it with a card! But, please use the heatsink and press it down - gently and firmly.
Also, when applying grease, you will only need to squeeze it to the SIZE of a 5p / 1p coin. Don't overkill it...

 

[vitta21]

Hi Vitta, I sent you a PM...

By the way, I will be studying "Multimedia Development" (Full Time) @ RGU. It's going to be K.O if I am not organize.

Apart from that, I already got my list with a little help from the community on this forum. Even worse, my workstation will need ATi Firepro V8800 (2gb) and Workstation size case for the course... it's insane, I know... XD

Third, regarding CPU heatsink upgrade, you will need Isopropyl Alcohol (86% ~ 90%), Micro Fibre Cloth (Get some of them!) and good grade Q-tips (stuff which you use to clean your ears with).

Anti-Static Cloth
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Cleaning-Cleaner-Cameras-Panasonic-Washable/dp/B001IU38HI/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1331887398&sr=8-7

Isopropyl Alcohol
http://www.amazon.co.uk/ISOPROPANOL-Isopropyl-Alcohol-99-9%25-250ml/dp/B003D8QFQO/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1331887858&sr=1-2

I don't know about Q-Tips... there is a bunch of them in the market, tesco, asda. However, don't grab cheap ones as they will leave lint / fleks behind.

Finally, when applying thermal grease, please don't spread it with a card! But, please use the heatsink and press it down - gently and firmly.
Also, when applying grease, you will only need to squeeze it to the SIZE of a 5p / 1p coin. Don't overkill it...

Awesome laircouk!!!! I have couldnt find the pm lol..total noob!!! thanks for all the advice, you saved me a lot of trouble. FYI, i went to PC shops in london today and had a chat with the tech guyz about the SSD!! he was trying to pitch me the new intel sandforce ssd the Intel 520 Cherryville instead of the Crucial M4..just wanted to ask everyone here what do they think about this SSD as it is quite new..

He was like : "dude, INTEL is going SANDFORCE...something is UP..!!!!!!"

 

[laircouk]

Awesome laircouk!!!! I have couldnt find the pm lol..total noob!!! thanks for all the advice, you saved me a lot of trouble. FYI, i went to PC shops in london today and had a chat with the tech guyz about the SSD!! he was trying to pitch me the new intel sandforce ssd the Intel 520 Cherryville instead of the Crucial M4..just wanted to ask everyone here what do they think about this SSD as it is quite new..

He was like : "dude, INTEL is going SANDFORCE...something is UP..!!!!!!"

WHAT? Intel aswell??? OMG... not them...

From my conclusion, it's all part of marketing... *Shrug*

Now, if you want to check your PMs, please click on my private message icon (symbol looks like letter in green) and look at the top.

Tom's Hardware > Forum > Private messages >

Click on "Private message"...

 

[xxyougotownedzz]

For the CPU i would still go Phenom II X4 but their is a better one (in my opinion). The 960T. The advantage of that particular CPU is that if you are lucky (if your mobo supports it and you're cpu is capable) you could unlock it a 6 core CPU.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103995