re: steps for building pc
 

Hello All:

I'm underthegun here, so please excuse slack.
A mobo on a home box was recently fried and so I'm rebuilding and switching os's and stuff. I'm switching to an amd cpu (amd 65 3200) w/ 939 socket.

My confusion is this: If I get a mobo w/ 939 socket is there a chipset that I have to buy as well?

Oh what shame to ask such questions!!!!

But like I said, I'm UNDER_THE_GUN here so let's dump the shame!! Any relevant replies greatly appreciated.

ergo_sum

No, the chipset is part of the motherboard.

In addition to your CPU and motherboard you'll need things like memory, PSU (make sure its good enough for your system) hard drivers, CD drives, graphics card. You may need a network card and a sound card if these are not part of the motherboard.

Thanks for the reply.

Only the mobo and cpu were affected when the "frying" took place (I'll be looking into grounded sockets and current regulators), so the cards on the fried mobo will be good to go. But I'll probably be looking for a new gpu and faster memory as well.
But I'm still deciding what combo to use for cpu and mobo (I'm pretty much decided on amd). Cost and electrical consumption are factors, so any relevant advice appreciated.

Thanks,

ergo_sum

There have been recent reports (from biased sources I think) that claim Intel chips are still superior to AMD, but in my experience AMD chips cost less and perform at least as well as genuine Intel. Maybe if you get into serious processing like CAD or CG you might notice something. Also I've read that AMD chips tend to run hotter, and temperature does have an affect on overall performance. Don't foget to get a compatible heatsink/fan combo, and consider an additional collling fan to install into the case. The mobo should have a connector for one.

Well, according to what I've researched so far amd's run cooler than intel's-which are well known for being hot and electric-intensive. And, the new amd's run as well or better (64 bit) in cg and/or cad according to benchmarks.

I've always used intel, but I think it's time for the switcheroo!!!

Thanks for the replies.

ergo_sum

That's what my instincts always told me. Don't believe everything you read. :)

Lately Intel has been trying some M$-style techniques to try to corner the market. I never thought they were that good before, now I like them even less.