Topic: Which computer is better (URGENT) (Read 14427 times)

Traddles · « **Reply #25 on:** January 02, 2011, 16:16:11 »

This machine cost me Â£399 in UK ($622.85 US)
http://www.dinopc.com/shop/pc/viewPrd.asp?idproduct=935&idcategory=94
I attach the DxDiag for the machine.
It runs SSE perfectly at around 23-25 FPS. I use my original keyboard, mouse and flat screen VDU with it.
Whilst I realise that such a machine may not be available in the US I hope it gives an idea of what is possible for reasonable prices.
Regards,
Traddles.

Capt. Matt · « **Reply #26 on:** January 02, 2011, 17:16:46 »

I was not able to look at vin_sun's specs as I don't have excel

However going back to AMD and Intel, there is NOTHING wrong with AMD. Intel is just more for longevity in my opinion. I've built computers with both Intel and AMD chips. vin_sun brought up a very valid point about AMD sockets being compatible, which is NOT the case with Intel. In example One of my machines runs an Intel LGA775 Socket (Core 2 Duo) , my current runs a LGA 1366 Socket (i7). I just find with AMD with the higher operating temperatures they tend to wear out.

Another point to look at is the computer's only as good as it's weakest link. In the case of ship sim, you could have a 3.33GHz CPU but if you only have 1GB of RAM that won't do much. So keep in mind that you could have a killer CPU, but not so much RAM. Also another thing to keep in mind is RAM speed, which generally tends to be pushed to the side which can greatly impact your computers speed ie 833MHz RAM to 1600MHz ram is a huge difference. Hard drives aren't that big of a deal. I focus on graphics, CPU, and RAM. But motherboards I'd have someone help you out to pick

Regards,
Matt

vin_sun · « **Reply #27 on:** January 02, 2011, 17:58:43 »

Quote from: Traddles on January 02, 2011, 16:16:11

It runs SSE perfectly at around 23-25 FPS. I use my original keyboard, mouse and flat screen VDU with it.

Hi Angus,

In fact the machine I had got assembled in Sept 2010 is very close to yours in terms of the processor and RAM. Whilst you have an Nvidia 1 GB gfx card I have an ATI Radeon 1 GB gfx card. I think your gfx card is superior to mine but nevertheless SSE performs well but I reach a max of 21 FPS which is still decent.

Regards
vin_sun

vin_sun · « **Reply #28 on:** January 02, 2011, 18:11:27 »

Hi Matt,

Thanks your post and all the information that came with it. This is my first experience with an AMD processor so there is something to monitor on the long run. You are very right about the CPU, RAM and GPU going hand-in-hand to deliver the optimum performance.

I have converted the Excel files into .jpg files for your convenience, as attachments. Please review them and offer your comments.

Regards
vin_sun

Capt. Matt · « **Reply #29 on:** January 02, 2011, 20:43:21 »

Thanks vin_sun!

CPU both are good, no need to restate my AMD vs. Intel argument

Motherboard- I use Asus and have zero complaints. Be sure that the case can support the form factor.

RAM either are fine

Graphics 1GB is fine, DDR5 to DDR3 isn't a huge difference other than price as I use both.

Hard Disk (here I go

) No need for more than 500GB. 7,200 RPM 500GB Seagate is my recommendation.

Optical - cheapest

PSU- Looks good

Case- Id say get a sturdy casing, but with a reasonable pricetag

Windows 7 is the way to go

vin_sun · « **Reply #30 on:** January 02, 2011, 21:13:38 »

Thanks Matt for chipping in and for your comments / suggestions.

Casey ...... so "the best laid plans" now beckon you !!!

Regarding Matt's comment:-
Hard Disk - No need for more than 500GB. 7,200 RPM 500GB Seagate is my recommendation.

A Seagate Barracuda 500 GB 7200 RPM will cost $50/-

I am open to further queries.

Regards
vin_sun

Casey13 · « **Reply #31 on:** January 03, 2011, 07:48:12 »

Quote from: vin_sun on January 02, 2011, 15:27:27

Please review the attached Excel files and feel free to ask me for any clarifications.

I will get to that tomorrow. Thank you all for your informative responses, and I really appreciate each and every one of your inputs

I am extremely sorry how needy I am being, but I have no idea about a computers 'guts'

I am also very busy and I can't take much time out of my day to be on the internet (10 minutes a day with 8 hours of sleep). I am practically dead.

Casey13 · « **Reply #32 on:** January 08, 2011, 07:11:43 »

I would consider the Intel config. I am fine, and the config vin_sun gave me is perfect.

Thank you all!

vin_sun · « **Reply #33 on:** January 08, 2011, 10:34:05 »

Hi Casey,

Pleased to learn that you are happy with my suggestions for the configs and have opted to go for the Intel.

To stay within your budget, I have recommended the Windows 7 Home Premium OEM priced at around $100. I feel it is better you know something about the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) version of Home Premium. when compared to the Home Premium retail version. The main thing is that the retail one costs $200. Please read the article that I have attached. Though it concentrates on Windows Vista, the same is applicable to Windows 7 too.

Regards
vin_sun

Casey13 · « **Reply #34 on:** January 15, 2011, 06:19:32 »

Well, this is completely off topic, but this is my topic.
Would anyone mind reviewing my newest video?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ay7LonaM7YQ

I want your honest opinions. Thank you.

vin_sun · « **Reply #35 on:** January 15, 2011, 06:35:14 »

Hi Casey,

Nice video clip.

However, the ideal board for this post would have been "Small Talk". Just offering you a guideline.

Regards
vin_sun

Casey13 · « **Reply #36 on:** January 23, 2011, 00:37:22 »

This taunts me every day. It drives me insane.

The Ferry Man · « **Reply #37 on:** January 23, 2011, 00:39:54 »

Quote from: Casey13 on January 23, 2011, 00:37:22

This taunts me every day. It drives me insane.

Careful - you might scratch the disk with it on a wooden surface :/

Casey13 · « **Reply #38 on:** January 23, 2011, 02:05:32 »

Quote from: The Ferry Man on January 23, 2011, 00:39:54

Careful - you might scratch the disk with it on a wooden surface :/

I know, I am always very careful.

The Ferry Man · « **Reply #39 on:** January 23, 2011, 12:29:42 »

Quote from: Casey13 on January 23, 2011, 02:05:32

I know, I am always very careful.

Ahh OK

vin_sun · « **Reply #40 on:** January 23, 2011, 13:10:07 »

Quote from: Casey13 on January 23, 2011, 00:37:22

This taunts me every day. It drives me insane.

Hi Casey,

So ..... what kind of computer do you have now that is making SSE do this to you ??

Regards
vin_sun

Casey13 · « **Reply #41 on:** January 23, 2011, 18:05:32 »

Quote from: vin_sun on January 23, 2011, 13:10:07

Hi Casey,

So ..... what kind of computer do you have now that is making SSE do this to you ??

Regards
vin_sun

Only the horrible Acer Aspire 5135-2326. It works sort of well with SS08 (lags in the ports, but good quality in the open ocean). IT SUCKS!!!

As of now, I only have 13GB of hard drive space

vin_sun · « **Reply #42 on:** January 23, 2011, 18:10:57 »

Quote from: Casey13 on January 23, 2011, 18:05:32

Only the horrible Acer Aspire 5135-2326. It works sort of well with SS08 (lags in the ports, but good quality in the open ocean). IT SUCKS!!!

Ah! OK! .... still with the Acer ! When do you plan to get the Intel rig I had configured for you ?

Regards
Vin_sun

Casey13 · « **Reply #43 on:** January 23, 2011, 18:13:10 »

Quote from: vin_sun on January 23, 2011, 18:10:57

Ah! OK! .... still with the Acer ! When do you plan to get the Intel rig I had configured for you ?

Regards
Vin_sun

Whenever I come into 700 bucks. It'll be like 4 months, maybe more. Plus the money for a computer guy to come and put everything in.

vin_sun · « **Reply #44 on:** January 23, 2011, 18:16:46 »

Quote from: Casey13 on January 23, 2011, 18:13:10

Whenever I come into 700 bucks. It'll be like 4 months, maybe more.

Mmmm... 4 months ! Just let me know again just before you plan to buy the components. I will check prices again & maybe get you a few things more superior.

Regards
vin_sun

Casey13 · « **Reply #45 on:** January 23, 2011, 18:45:07 »

Quote from: vin_sun on January 23, 2011, 18:16:46

Mmmm... 4 months ! Just let me know again just before you plan to buy the components. I will check prices again & maybe get you a few things more superior.

Regards
vin_sun

Will do. This topic is going to be dried up for a long while.

saltydog · « **Reply #46 on:** January 23, 2011, 19:27:53 »

I'm also playing with the idea of getting a new computer.. $:-\$

Bob360 · « **Reply #47 on:** January 26, 2011, 12:06:06 »

Hi Casey,

Keep in mind that OEM products can only be used on the computer you originally installed it on. If you change the motherboard, or buy a second computer, youâ€™ll have to purchase a new Windows7 OEM program. Also since Vin_Sunsâ€˜ article was written, Windows7 retail prices have come down around 30%. For example Windows7 Ultimate retail version is $289.99 (not $399) @TigerDirect.com. I would venture to say that other discount sites may be even cheaper. I never get OEM products, because I donâ€™t know what the future holds, and OEM versions would only handcuff me, but thatâ€™s just my opinion.

You may also want to check prices on â€œbuilt to orderâ€œ computers @Tiger Direct too. I always use Tiger Direct, and they have not failed me yet. I have 3 computers, and one laptop. My computer specs in my signature is the latest one, plus other goodies I bought. This is just another avenue to check when ready to purchase your new computer. This doesnâ€™t diminish any advice Vin_Sun has given you. Itâ€™s meant to give another option or someone elseâ€™s thoughts to consider.

vin_sun · « **Reply #48 on:** January 26, 2011, 13:38:03 »

Hi Bob,

Thanks for pitching in here and advising Casey. Since you live in the U.S. and are abreast of the current pricing your information is indeed helpful. "Tiger Direct" looks to be another useful website.

Regards
vin_sun

Bob360 · « **Reply #49 on:** January 26, 2011, 17:57:47 »

You're welcome.

I'm just glad I could give assistance, or at the very least, another viewpoint. As a moderator myself, this is what makes the forum so helpful (other peoples views, or opinions). Thanks for the reply.

Author Topic: Which computer is better (URGENT) (Read 14427 times)