Is this good enough?
Getting a New Computer Soon
Monday, April 14, 2008 by Xiandi | Discussion: Personal Computing
I need some advice. I know next to nothing about computer specs, but I'm planning on getting a new computer soon. I realize that it will probably have Vista on it so it will need lots of RAM, but thats about all I know.
My son was looking up different computers and comparing prices, etc. This is one of the options he came up with.
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Hp s3400z Computer
Windows Vista Home Premium w/Service Pack 1
2.3 GHz AMD Athlon 64 X2 4400+ dual-core processor
3GB DDR2-800MHz dual channel SDRAM
256 MB NVIDIA GeForce 8400-HD, DVI, VGA adapter, HDMI video card
No Modem (not sure if important info)
320 GB 7200 rpm SATA 3Gb/s Hard Drive
LightScribe 16X max. DVD+/- R/RW SuperMulti drive
15-in-1 memory card reader, 2 USB, headphone port
Integrated 5.1 Capable Sound w/front audio ports sound card
price includes free shipping
$539.99
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Do you think this is a good deal? Is it going to be good enough for what I want to do? Would you change anything on it?
I have specs on a more expensive computer too but was wondering if this one would *do it* for me. Most of the time I use it for skinning and web surfing, but I would like to be able to play games and watch movies on it too (not something I can do with my current computer).
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kona0197
Reply #42 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 8:03 PM
I could walk you through building one. Email me. It's a very simple process.
Reply #42 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 8:03 PM
I really have no experience building a computer on my own, and I don't have anyone thay would know how to do it for me. That's why I was considering a prebuilt one. It's the main reason I asked here, I knew I would get lots of helpful advice on what to get.
I have time still to get all this together. I'll check out your links Kona, maybe I'll learn a thing or two in the process. Thanks to all of you for your input!
I have time still to get all this together. I'll check out your links Kona, maybe I'll learn a thing or two in the process. Thanks to all of you for your input!
I could walk you through building one. Email me. It's a very simple process.
Xiandi
Reply #43 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 8:45 PM
I might take you up on that. I need to do some reading and will probably have more questions when I'm done.
Reply #43 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 8:45 PM
I could walk you through building one. Email me. It's a very simple process.
I might take you up on that. I need to do some reading and will probably have more questions when I'm done.
Xiandi
Reply #44 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 9:54 PM
There are problems with 64bit? I am sick of problems with my computer. I'm getting a new one because this one is old and has lots of problems. I don't want problems!
Increased memory support? What does that mean?
Reply #44 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 9:54 PM
64bit is a can of worms you don't need to open,
There are problems with 64bit? I am sick of problems with my computer. I'm getting a new one because this one is old and has lots of problems. I don't want problems!
All editions of Windows Vista 64-bit provide increased memory support beyond the standard 4 gigabytes available with 32-bit editions.
Increased memory support? What does that mean?
Leo the Lion
Reply #45 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 10:09 PM
So once you add shipping you are saving about twenty bucks on the HP which comes fully built. And don't forget the HP will come with a lot of software - admittedly some of it crap - but you'd have to buy some software to match the HP offering which would leave you out of pocket on your 'build your own' system. Let alone the time spent actually building it and getting it up and running. And as we all know invariably one of the parts you purchase will be defective. Nope, it don't make sense. I'd buy the ready built system and let HP take care of any problems.
Reply #45 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 10:09 PM
I find your lack of faith disturbing Leo...Case: Linkworld 431-06 Black ATX Mid Tower Computer Case 500W Power Supply - WWW LinkMotherboard and OS Combo: GIGABYTE GA-MA69VM-S2 AM2 AMD 690V Micro ATX AMD Motherboard and Windows Vista Home Premium Combo - WWW LinkProcessor: AMD Athlon 64 X2 4400+ Brisbane 2.3GHz 2 x 512KB L2 Cache Socket AM2 65W Dual-Core Processor - WWW LinkMemory: Patriot 1GB 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400) X 3 - WWW LinkDVD Burner: LITE-ON Black 20X SATA DVD Burner with LightScribe - WWW LinkHard Drive: SAMSUNG SpinPoint T Series 320GB 7200 RPM 16MB Cache SATA Hard Drive - WWW LinkVideo Card: BIOSTAR V8402GL26 GeForce 8400GS 256MB 64-bit GDDR2 PCI Express x16 HDCP Ready Video Card - WWW LinkCard Reader: SABRENT 65-in-1 Card Reader w/ USB 2.0 Port - WWW LinkGrand Total - $476.89 plus Shipping And the satisfaction of building it yourself. If you were to go for a few cheaper parts you could save even more. I had the total down to around 350 dollars the day on a simular build. I'm pretty sure Ebay would be even cheaper as well.
So once you add shipping you are saving about twenty bucks on the HP which comes fully built. And don't forget the HP will come with a lot of software - admittedly some of it crap - but you'd have to buy some software to match the HP offering which would leave you out of pocket on your 'build your own' system. Let alone the time spent actually building it and getting it up and running. And as we all know invariably one of the parts you purchase will be defective. Nope, it don't make sense. I'd buy the ready built system and let HP take care of any problems.
Bebi Bulma
Reply #46 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 10:13 PM
64bit is meant for people who do heavy-duty graphics editing, video rendering, extreme gaming, etc. The casual user has no need for 64bit. It also has compatibility problems with some programs (including some Stardock ones). 32bit is the way to go.
More RAM = better performance. You should be fine with 2GB, works fine for me.
Reply #46 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 10:13 PM
64bit is a can of worms you don't need to open,
There are problems with 64bit? I am sick of problems with my computer. I'm getting a new one because this one is old and has lots of problems. I don't want problems!
All editions of Windows Vista 64-bit provide increased memory support beyond the standard 4 gigabytes available with 32-bit editions.
Increased memory support? What does that mean?
There are problems with 64bit? I am sick of problems with my computer. I'm getting a new one because this one is old and has lots of problems. I don't want problems!
All editions of Windows Vista 64-bit provide increased memory support beyond the standard 4 gigabytes available with 32-bit editions.
Increased memory support? What does that mean?
64bit is meant for people who do heavy-duty graphics editing, video rendering, extreme gaming, etc. The casual user has no need for 64bit. It also has compatibility problems with some programs (including some Stardock ones). 32bit is the way to go.
More RAM = better performance. You should be fine with 2GB, works fine for me.
kona0197
Reply #47 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 10:22 PM
Reply #47 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 10:22 PM
Leo you just don't get it. I said I could build a system for less. I can build one for even less than I showed you here.
Would you like proof?
Would you like proof?
Xiandi
Reply #48 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 10:32 PM
Reply #48 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 10:32 PM
Thank you, Bebi. I like answers in language I can understand. 
kona0197
Reply #49 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 10:39 PM
Reply #49 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 10:39 PM
Xiandi I could put a system together from Newegg fro around $350 shipped. If you are interested I could post the parts and then write up how to assemble them if you like.
Gideon MacLeish
Reply #50 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 10:51 PM
lol.
I build my own, personally.
For a "big box" computer, it's not a bad deal though. I recently put together a computer with the following:
AMD 4400+ processor
1GB RAM (running XP, I'll upgrade the RAM when I get a chance)
DVD burner with Lightscribe
2-SATA 160GB Hard drives
450Watt PSU
Onboard video, sound, and Nic
Total cost? $300 (it was built on a budget). Considering that you have more RAM, as much hard drive space, and a video card, as well as the O/S included (my O/S didn't cost me...and no it ain't pirated...lol!), I'd say it's a fair deal. Just thought I'd list my budget machine pricing for a benchmark.
Reply #50 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 10:51 PM
No comment...
lol.
I build my own, personally.
For a "big box" computer, it's not a bad deal though. I recently put together a computer with the following:
AMD 4400+ processor
1GB RAM (running XP, I'll upgrade the RAM when I get a chance)
DVD burner with Lightscribe
2-SATA 160GB Hard drives
450Watt PSU
Onboard video, sound, and Nic
Total cost? $300 (it was built on a budget). Considering that you have more RAM, as much hard drive space, and a video card, as well as the O/S included (my O/S didn't cost me...and no it ain't pirated...lol!), I'd say it's a fair deal. Just thought I'd list my budget machine pricing for a benchmark.
Xiandi
Reply #51 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 10:54 PM
Reply #51 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 10:54 PM
I am looking for something that I can use without being totally outrageous in price. I want a good computer that will do what I want, no less and no more. I put the computer specs up there to use as a starting point and was told by someone that it was a pretty good system. I wanted to see what needed to be improved, if anything, or see if there was something I did not need in it. I AM willing to spend a little more to get what I need, but I'm still not sure WHAT I need yet.
If I can get a computer that does what I need for $350, I'm interested. If I need something more than that, I'm willing to pay for it. This thread is more about what I need, rather than what I'm willing to spend.
If I can get a computer that does what I need for $350, I'm interested. If I need something more than that, I'm willing to pay for it. This thread is more about what I need, rather than what I'm willing to spend.
Bebi Bulma
Reply #53 Wednesday, April 16, 2008 12:44 AM
Reply #53 Wednesday, April 16, 2008 12:44 AM
Kona, I know you mean well and I totally agree that home built is better than prebuilt, but in Xiandi's case I think she would be better off with just a prebuilt machine that comes with support and a warranty. That in the end will make it more beneficial for someone with limited knowledge (although, it's pretty easy to get support on here too). That would be my recommendation, but ultimately she'll make the decision.
kona0197
Reply #54 Wednesday, April 16, 2008 1:00 AM
Reply #54 Wednesday, April 16, 2008 1:00 AM
I know Bebi. I'm gonna go ahead and post this just in case:
OK keep in mind this is a system that CAN be upgraded to a dual core processor. As it is built here it will run Vista with zero problems. The only downside to this setup is the fact that the maximum amount of memory you can put in this system is 2 GB. I use 2 GB myself and have no issues.
Motherboard & Processor Combo: BIOSTAR AM2VCOMB34S motherboard & AMD Sempron 3400+ processor - WWW Link
Memory: CORSAIR ValueSelect 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 667 (PC2 5300) - WWW Link
Hard Drive: Seagate 250GB 7200 RPM 8MB Cache IDE Ultra ATA100 Hard Drive - WWW Link
DVD Burner: LITE-ON Black 20X SATA DVD Burner with LightScribe - WWW Link
Video Card: SAPPHIRE 100198L Radeon X1650 512MB 128-bit GDDR2 AGP 4X/8X Video Card - WWW Link
Case: ATRIX CSCI-L8029-C34 Black/ Silver SECC Steel ATX Mid Tower Computer Case 480W Power Supply - WWW Link
Grand total is under 300 bucks. Probably around 350 shipped.
If you really want Vista trust Pricewatch...
Windows Vista Home Premium - WWW Link
Windows XP Home - WWW Link
OK keep in mind this is a system that CAN be upgraded to a dual core processor. As it is built here it will run Vista with zero problems. The only downside to this setup is the fact that the maximum amount of memory you can put in this system is 2 GB. I use 2 GB myself and have no issues.
Motherboard & Processor Combo: BIOSTAR AM2VCOMB34S motherboard & AMD Sempron 3400+ processor - WWW Link
Memory: CORSAIR ValueSelect 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 667 (PC2 5300) - WWW Link
Hard Drive: Seagate 250GB 7200 RPM 8MB Cache IDE Ultra ATA100 Hard Drive - WWW Link
DVD Burner: LITE-ON Black 20X SATA DVD Burner with LightScribe - WWW Link
Video Card: SAPPHIRE 100198L Radeon X1650 512MB 128-bit GDDR2 AGP 4X/8X Video Card - WWW Link
Case: ATRIX CSCI-L8029-C34 Black/ Silver SECC Steel ATX Mid Tower Computer Case 480W Power Supply - WWW Link
Grand total is under 300 bucks. Probably around 350 shipped.
If you really want Vista trust Pricewatch...
Windows Vista Home Premium - WWW Link
Windows XP Home - WWW Link
Jafo
Reply #55 Wednesday, April 16, 2008 1:07 AM
Reply #55 Wednesday, April 16, 2008 1:07 AM
I totally agree that home built is better than prebuilt, but in Xiandi's case I think she would be better off with just a prebuilt machine that comes with support and a warranty. That in the end will make it more beneficial for someone with limited knowledge
Listen to Bebi.
Better to walk if you cannot [yet] run...
Xiandi
Reply #56 Wednesday, April 16, 2008 8:59 AM
Reply #56 Wednesday, April 16, 2008 8:59 AM
Thank you, Kona. I'l look into those.
I'm listening. I'm also exploring options. I have plenty of time to make this decision. It's not something I will jump into without thinking about it (I have been known to do that on occasion).
Bebi, you said 64 bit is not compatible with some Stardock products. Do you know which ones? You also said that a 2 gigs is enough for you. I'm assuming you have Vista, what is the most intensive thing you do on it?
Listen to Bebi.
Better to walk if you cannot [yet] run...
Better to walk if you cannot [yet] run...
I'm listening. I'm also exploring options. I have plenty of time to make this decision. It's not something I will jump into without thinking about it (I have been known to do that on occasion).
Bebi, you said 64 bit is not compatible with some Stardock products. Do you know which ones? You also said that a 2 gigs is enough for you. I'm assuming you have Vista, what is the most intensive thing you do on it?
Bebi Bulma
Reply #57 Wednesday, April 16, 2008 2:14 PM
With the Stardock products, they first make sure they work on 32bit and release those, and then get the 64bit compatibility. I believe right now the IconPackager 4 beta isn't 64bit compatible, I'm not sure about the others since I don't have to worry about it (32bit on both machines).
The most intensive thing I do on either of my machines (XP/Vista) is Photoshop, and it's a resource hog by itself. I'm mainly on my XP machine though because this has the 24" widescreen monitor (easier to work on) and the Vista is only a 15.4" laptop (tiny compared to being spoiled with this monitor).
Reply #57 Wednesday, April 16, 2008 2:14 PM
Bebi, you said 64 bit is not compatible with some Stardock products. Do you know which ones? You also said that a 2 gigs is enough for you. I'm assuming you have Vista, what is the most intensive thing you do on it?
With the Stardock products, they first make sure they work on 32bit and release those, and then get the 64bit compatibility. I believe right now the IconPackager 4 beta isn't 64bit compatible, I'm not sure about the others since I don't have to worry about it (32bit on both machines).
The most intensive thing I do on either of my machines (XP/Vista) is Photoshop, and it's a resource hog by itself. I'm mainly on my XP machine though because this has the 24" widescreen monitor (easier to work on) and the Vista is only a 15.4" laptop (tiny compared to being spoiled with this monitor).
Phoon
Reply #59 Thursday, April 17, 2008 12:22 PM
never had much luck doing that. Had Zero luck with XP by making the necessary entries in the boot.ini either.
Reply #59 Thursday, April 17, 2008 12:22 PM
Vista 32 bit can access 4gb of RAM.... can be done through BCDEdit, see article
never had much luck doing that. Had Zero luck with XP by making the necessary entries in the boot.ini either.
starkers
Reply #60 Thursday, April 17, 2008 9:07 PM
Worked for me OK, and all I did was follow the article's instructions and the screen prompts.
Reply #60 Thursday, April 17, 2008 9:07 PM
never had much luck doing that.
Worked for me OK, and all I did was follow the article's instructions and the screen prompts.
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Reply #41 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 8:02 PM
As you can see I did comment.
You can use 4 GB of RAM with 32 bit Vista Home Premium. You don't have to use the 64 bit edition.
WWW Link
From the MS website:
Memory specifications
All editions of Windows Vista 64-bit provide increased memory support beyond the standard 4 gigabytes (GB) available with 32-bit editions. Refer to the specific edition of Windows Vista 64-bit to determine maximum memory capacity.