Super Computer - build or buy

blacksta

I am a thinking of building my next computer and would like to know whether to build one or buy.

If it works out cheaper to build one - I would like to use this thread to manage the process.

gonzo127

its not always cheaper to build one, and it can be frustrating especially if you have one component which id DOA

however

it is also very fun to build and can feel very rewarding when you push the button for the first time and it boots up perfectly, or when you get it to boot when there has been a problem which you have had to solve. the other major factor in a home build is that you know EXACTLY what has been put into the system and can specify every single component to be the best you can get for your needs instead of what the company has been able to get a good deal on

btw i always self build

blacksta

My biggest issue i guess is the motherboard - I want a motherboard that will support Windows - I have heard of stories where Windows not correctly identifying the RAM - Any pointers on this ?

gonzo127

my god thats some old stories you have been hearing, the only reason RAM would not be found is because it is either dead on arrival or not seated properly

and 99.9% of motherboards will be supported by Windows

RussJK

Might be better for you to have it built, as there is a lot of assumed knowledge in doing this. If anything goes wrong with a part, you'll need to know how to identify which one it is.

blacksta

Sorry for not making myself clear - I meant Windows 32bit not seeing the entire ram - Does that help

blacksta

Please recommend some motherboards and Processors - I was going to stick to Intel ?

MoneySavingUser

blacksta wrote: »

Sorry for making myself clear - I meant Windows 32bit not seeing the entire ram - Does that help

that is because it is not possible - you need to use a 64bit version

gonzo127

RussJK wrote: »

Might be better for you to have it built, as there is a lot of assumed knowledge in doing this. If anything goes wrong with a part, you'll need to know how to identify which one it is.

but then again how will anyone learn without trying

although a half way house of something like a 'motherboard bundle' might be a better option to start with

blacksta

I have done a rough estimate of cost of building a computer - it works out at around £650 -Monitor , keyboard not included.
will provide specs shortly -

Is that a viable cost?

RussJK

gonzo127 wrote: »

but then again how will anyone learn without trying
although a half way house of something like a 'motherboard bundle' might be a better option to start with

I definitely agree in general! I would never have learned about computers had I not just gone and used them when I was young. And broke them. And fixed them.

He asked for opinions, and mine in this case was just based on one of the questions he asked, which nudged me towards advising caution.