Re: Building my first PC - advice
 

On the contrary, my mobo (Asus AV8) came with the backplate fully assembled and installing the CPU & heatsink was a matter of pushing a big plastic lever.

Re: Building my first PC - advice
 

Last 3 builds I have done have been trouble free with regards to fan instalation (All AMD).

1.) an old Athlon 850, added a new fan since I didnt get the old one off the friend I bought it from.
2.) My current machine, Athlon XP1800+, replaced old fan due to the bearing having worn out.
3.) An Athlon XP2400+ in a shuttle X-PC, the shuttle ICE pipe is easy to fit anyway but thought I would mention this.

All went on nice and easy, though that could be due to experience? rather than improved technology.

Re: Building my first PC - advice
 

Plugged in isn't the same as live. You can leave the plug in - just flick the switch off. The only slight danger is if the switch isn't a double pole switch, in which case neutral will still be "live" (i.e. connected). I just leave my PC plugged in and connect myself to the case with a wrist strap on a springy thing.

Re: Building my first PC - advice
 

Just ordered a Imac g5 :D


Edit: now legs it for door :p:

Re: Building my first PC - advice
 

I have just build a new box, with a Biostar Mobo (M7NCD)- AMD XP300+ proc, 512 Mb DDR...

This is based on the NForce2 chipset - which is rated pretty well..

The proc was a doddle to fit, and the heatsink just needed a little persuasion to clip on.

You can disable the onboard sound with a jumper.

Re: Building my first PC - advice
 

I've never had any problems, providing you use a screwdriver..see picture.

Steve do you use a screwdriver??

Re: Building my first PC - advice
 

If you want a book - I bought Haynes Manual and was please with it.

As a project it is well worth doing and very rewarding.

Re: Building my first PC - advice
 

Unless you're really concerned about the noise factor, I'd recommend an A64 over a P4. They really are fantastic CPUs.

Re: Building my first PC - advice
 

Yeah, but not in the way you do.. I clip the clip on the inside then force it over the clip nearest the PSU.. pushing down on the clip with a flat headed screw driver. Can't really get a screw driver round there without taking the PSU out.. will do next time though if it saves time :)

Re: Building my first PC - advice
 

Well I've been looking around for a few weeks now and have come up with a specification I'm reasonably happy with.

I must say that compared to an equivalent off the shelf PC for that price in PC World, you seem to get much more value (comparison with PC World product code # 206192, price £850.97 ).

Anyway, see what you think ... word file

I've tried to find Northwood processors everywhere but it's impossible as they are all out of stock or no longer list them on their site. Or they charge extortianate prices with long lead times or none at all. :(

However I do think £30 for 2x 120mm fans is taking the p*ss somewhat - anyone know where I can get some cheaper same sized ones?

Re: Building my first PC - advice
 

My only suggestion would be to look at the Antec Sonata case - about £70 for eBuyer, Microdirect etc - it is designed to be v quiet and for that £70 you get an Antec quiet PSU and a 120mm fan (shouldn't need more than one).

I think you'll find the Aria FX5200 is manufactured by 'someone' in the Far East and shipped out with an Aria badge. No DVI on that card.