digby

I'm planning to build my self a mid-range computer in the next couple of months. I'm not a serious gamer, but I do like to play something every now and again. This box will be used a lot for grad school papers/presentations/research/etc. so stability is the key point here. I figure this will also be a box to dual boot and learn some Linux from.

I plan on using an (as of yet undetirmined speed) AMD processor. I don't need/want integrated video or audio, but on-board 10/100 would be fine until I feel like playing with gigabit ethernet. I expect that I need the usual 4-5 pci slots and however many USB I can get. I would really prefer the board to have SATA controlers. Firewire is a big plus as well. I'm not absolutely certain that I will do much overclocking, but again, the option would be nice to have.

I picked AMD because the price/performance seems to be better than Intel. I am also leaning toward Asus or Abit boards because of their reputations. I am not set on any of this, however, so feel free to make suggestions from other sources. If your recommendation would hinge on a specific processor selection, please just assume one and let me know why you would pick that.

Thanks.

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mmmm.... pudding