noobie question... need help

first time computer builder, here, so this will probably seem like a stupid question. If I buy a boxed processor (either XP or P4) from either Intel or whoever makes the best AMD chip, will it come with a cooling unit? If not, is there anything I should know when purchasing a cooling unit?

furthermore: I saw the debate on XP vs P4. are you guys taking into account Rambus memory? If I got a P4, it would only be the i850 chipset, cause I want the Rambus, even though it is expensive. (to me, it's cheap, cause the last time I bought RAM, it cost a little more than 50 cents a meg) Is RDRAM available for Amd chips? if not, does it matter? furthermore, are there any compatibility issues with amd and any software, (specifically 3d, Maya, 3dsmax, etc...) sorry for all this. help if you can. thanks.

Only AMD makes AMD chips.

If you buy a retail CPU, then you will get a heatsink and fan regardless of whether or not it's an Intel or AMD CPU. Make sure you carefully read the instructions before installing it.

If you're a first time builder the retail heatsink and fan is probably the best option for you.

When we talk about the XP vs. P4 issue, we always consider the available platforms (motherboards, chipsets, and RAM). At the moment AMD offers the best price/performance.

If you decide to go with a P4, Rambus is a good choice.

You can't currently use AMD CPU's with Rambus RAM, however AMD CPU’s work perfectly well with DDR RAM.

There are no compatibility issues the AMD CPU's and any software.

"Ignorance is bliss, but I tend to get screwed over."

Not only does amd have no compatability issues with any software, the 3d rendering software you mentioned is one of amds strongest points. An amd chip will out perform a signifigantly more expensive and mhz faster p4 in those applications.

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No Overclock+stock hsf=GOOD!