Quitting Video Games?

Q. Ok so lately I have been getting very angry at video games. It's just me losing at them. It's not that I don't like losing, I just hate when I lose because something unfair happens, I get very angry. Examples are when I'm playing GTA 4 and I'm winning but when I die I spawn away from everyone else. Then when I finally get close to the action they all die and they spawn somewhere far away... Or when I am playing MW3 and someone uses lag switches or other hacks, it makes me upset that they are making the game unfair for everyone else because they suck enough to use hacks. When I get angry, I throw my controller at the wall, throw my game disk against the wall, I even punch the computer monitor when it acts slow. Anyways, should I just quit video games, or try to suppress my anger somehow? I"m 15 btw

A. Off topic: http://weknowmemes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/were-playing-a-game-its-not-supposed-to-be-fun.jpg

Seriously though, I think that you shouldn't quit video games as they are helpful in relieving stress. I notice that both of the games that you mentioned were muliplayer, so why not try something that's not? Portal is an extremely fun game that requires you to solve puzzles with portals and maneuver your way throughout the map.

Another game you can try is Bioshock. It's offline and has an amazing story. Not exactly stress relieving as it can be tense at times, but it is overall a fun game that tells a great story.

My personal favorite PC game though is Gary's Mod. A game where you can do almost anything, it can lead to some extremely fun situations.

If you would like to continue playing those games I would recommend you take breaks in between matches and bring a stress ball when you are playing.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal_(video_game)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bioshock
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gary%27s_Mod

Original Question

Gaming PC build that could run any game for the next few years?

Q. I'm looking into building a new gaming PC. I would like to be able to play games like Battlefield 3, Guild Wars 2, and other games coming out in the next few years. I want this computer to last me at least 4 years without needing any expensive upgrades. My budget is about 800 but I'd be willing to go up to 1000. I want to max these games out and run them at a full steady 60 frames per second.
Thanks.

A. Depends if you still need a monitor and/or an operating system


If you have a monitor and operating system then try this:

PCPartPicker part list: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/uniq
Price breakdown by merchant: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/uniq/by_merchant/
Benchmarks: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/uniq/benchmarks/

CPU: Intel Core i7-2600K 3.4GHz Quad-Core Processor ($279.99 @ NCIX US)
Motherboard: MSI Z77A-G41 ATX LGA1155 Motherboard ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill Value Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1333 Memory ($37.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Black 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($89.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: XFX Radeon HD 7950 3GB Video Card ($292.55 @ Newegg)
Case: Azza CSAZ-1000 ATX Full Tower Case ($89.98 @ NCIX US)
Power Supply: XFX ProSeries 750W 80 PLUS Silver Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($79.99 @ NCIX US)
Optical Drive: Asus DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS DVD/CD Writer ($24.98 @ Newegg)
Total: $965.46
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2012-12-27 00:43 EST-0500)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

If you already have a monitor but no operating system then:

PCPartPicker part list: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/unhd
Price breakdown by merchant: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/unhd/by_merchant/
Benchmarks: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/unhd/benchmarks/

CPU: Intel Core i7-2600K 3.4GHz Quad-Core Processor ($279.99 @ NCIX US)
Motherboard: MSI Z77A-G41 ATX LGA1155 Motherboard ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill Value Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1333 Memory ($37.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Black 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($89.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: Sapphire Radeon HD 6950 2GB Video Card ($216.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Case: Azza CSAZ-1000 ATX Full Tower Case ($89.98 @ NCIX US)
Power Supply: XFX ProSeries 750W 80 PLUS Silver Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($79.99 @ NCIX US)
Optical Drive: Asus DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS DVD/CD Writer ($24.98 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($89.98 @ Outlet PC)
Total: $979.87
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2012-12-27 00:41 EST-0500)

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Operating System but no monitor:

PCPartPicker part list: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/unmL
Price breakdown by merchant: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/unmL/by_merchant/
Benchmarks: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/unmL/benchmarks/

CPU: Intel Core i5-3570K 3.4GHz Quad-Core Processor ($189.99 @ Microcenter)
Motherboard: MSI Z77A-G41 ATX LGA1155 Motherboard ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill NS Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1333 Memory ($37.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Black 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($89.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: PowerColor Radeon HD 6950 1GB Video Card ($263.22 @ NCIX US)
Case: Azza CSAZ-1000 ATX Full Tower Case ($89.98 @ NCIX US)
Power Supply: XFX ProSeries 750W 80 PLUS Silver Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($79.99 @ NCIX US)
Optical Drive: Asus DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS DVD/CD Writer ($24.98 @ Newegg)
Monitor: Acer G245HQLbd 60Hz 23.6" Monitor ($129.99 @ Amazon)
Total: $976.12
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2012-12-27 00:50 EST-0500)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Other options:
Downgrade CPU to a Intel i5 2310 and get a 32gb SSD to install the operating system on

Original Question

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Need help building a <700$ Gaming Computer 2012?

Q. Parts not required : Keyboard , Monitor , Mouse , Speakers , OS , Modem
Monitor resolution : 1360 x 768
Preffered site : www.newegg.com
Able to run the following game on it's highest : Battlefield 3 , Diablo 3 , Crysis 3 , Borderlands 2
MOBO : None
Optical drive : ASUS DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS Black SATA 24X DVD Burner - Bulk - OEM
Case : Rosewill CHALLENGER Black Gaming ATX Mid Tower Computer Case,
HDD : None <500GB>
GPU : XFX Double D HD-687A-ZDFC Radeon HD 6870
PSU : None
CPU : None <Quad core + At least 3GHz>
CPU Cooler : COOLER MASTER Hyper 212 EVO
RAM : G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 8GB (2 x 4GB)
Please help me fill in the one with None(s) in it with the following requirement

A. Generally, you either go dual core i3 on the cpu, or AMD FX-4100, so, lets go with the FX-4100 with the 4 locked cores.
www.cpubenchmark.net/cpu_list.php
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103996

I don't see a core unlocker, but everything else on this MB looks good enough:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131767
www.asus.com/Motherboards/
AMD_AM3Plus/M5A97/
reconnect above
Bundles with good memory
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.1005496
or the CPU:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.985605
And choose a Sata III (6Gb/s) 7200 rpm drive
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=100007603%20600003340&IsNodeId=1&bop=And&SrchInDesc=6%2E0gb%2Fs&Page=1&PageSize=20
You can wait with a cpu cooler.
To go with the HD 6870, you will need a power supply to handle
151 Watts as 500 Watt min & 28 Amps on 12V
http://www.game-debate.com/hardware/index.php?gid=452&graphics=Radeon%20HD%206870
http://www.notebookcheck.net/Computer-Games-on-Laptop-Graphic-Cards.13849.0.html
This would work:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817159125
or: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817159128
GPU? http://www.amazon.com/XFX-Radeon-MINIDP-PCI-E-HD687AZHFC/dp/B005C31F2M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1343704848&sr=8-1&keywords=XFX+Double+D+HD-687A-ZDFC+Radeon+HD+6870+1GB+Video+Card

I think you hold to budget

Original Question

Gaming Computer for $900 - opinions?

Q. My build includes a 21.5" monitor, keyboard, mouse, speakers and a wireless card.

i3 3220 (3.3 GHz)
2x 4GB Team 1333 MHz
ASRock H77 Pro4-MVP
Silverstone RL01
Gigabyte GTX 650 Ti OC (Boost is not available)
Pioneer optical disc
WD Caviar Blue 1TB
Samsung 840 Series 120GB
Corsair CX430M

Can it handle games such as CS: GO, Hitman: Absolution, Batman: Arkham City, GTA IV at 1920x1080 resolution?

A. Yes you'll easily handle those games on ultra at 1080p. The toughest titles like BF3 would only be playable on high settings, not ultra (neither your CPU nor GPU are powerful enough for that). GTA IV will probably be a bit laggy since it's a very poorly coded port that doesn't run well on anything less than a quad-core.

The GeForce GTX 650 Ti (reference model, let alone OC) is better than a Radeon HD 7770, so ignore suggestions to downgrade. Moving to a Radeon HD 7850 would be an upgrade, although overkill for those games.

http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Zotac/GeForce_GTX_650_Ti_Amp_Edition/7.html
http://www.bit-tech.net/hardware/graphics/2012/10/09/nvidia-geforce-gtx-650-ti-review/5

However i recommend upgrading the PSU to a Corsair CX500. And stick with 2x4GB, since you want dual-channel memory access.

Your alternative (which would be better for GTA IV) is to consider AMD's new FX-6300 along with an AM3+ motherboard instead of the Core i3 3220 and AsRock H77 Pro4-MVP. While the original Bulldozer FX processors were much weaker than 2nd gen Core i3 for gaming, the new Piledriver processors have greatly improved gaming performance. However the Core i3 is still better in really CPU-intensive titles like Starcraft 2.

http://www.xbitlabs.com/articles/cpu/display/fx-8350-8320-6300-4300_6.html#sect0

Original Question

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Gaming computer build?

Q. Hi people. I was wanting a new gaming desktop to play WoW and Borderlands 2 on. Will this set up not Lag on Ultra on either of these games? I'm gtting this from cyberpowerpc. My buget is $1600. BASE_PRICE:[+759]

BLUETOOTH:None

CARE1:Ultra Enhanced Packaging Solution - Protect Your Dream System During Transit [+19]

CARE2:Cooler Master Thermal Fusion 400 Extreme Performance CPU - Thermal Compound Optimized for Thermal Dissipation [+10]

CARE3:Professional Wiring for All WIRING Inside The System Chassis - Minimize Cable Exposure, Maximize Airflow in Your System [+19]

CAS:Raidmax Agusta Mid-Tower Gaming Case w/ 1x USB 3.0 Port, Fan & LED Light Control (White/Black)

CASUPGRADE:None

CD:24X Double Layer Dual Format DVD+-R/+-RW + CD-R/RW Drive (BLACK COLOR)

CD2:None

COOLANT:Standard Coolant

CPU:AMD FX-6100 3.30 GHz Six-Core AM3+ CPU 6MB L2 Cache & Turbo Core Technology [+0]

CS_FAN:Maximum 120MM Color Case Cooling Fans for your selected case [+15] (Blue Color)

ENGRAVING:None

ENGRAVING_MSG:

FA_HDD:None

FAN:Asetek 510LC Liquid Cooling System 120MM Radiator & Fan (Enhanced Cooling Performance + Extreme Silent at 20dBA) (Single Standard 120MM Fan)

FLASHMEDIA:INTERNAL 12in1 Flash Media Reader/Writer (BLACK COLOR)

FREEBIE_MB:None

GLASSES:None

HDD:2TB (2TBx1) SATA-III 6.0Gb/s 64MB Cache 7200RPM HDD (Single Drive)

HDD2:500GB SATA-II 3.0Gb/s 16MB Cache 7200RPM HDD [+65] (Single Hard Drive)

IEEE_CARD:None

IUSB:Built-in USB 2.0 Ports

KEYBOARD:AZZA Multimedia USB Gaming Keyboard

MEMORY:16GB (8GBx2) DDR3/1333MHz Dual Channel Memory [+15] (Corsair or Major Brand)

MONITOR:19" Widescreen 1366x768 Sceptre X195W-NAGA 5ms TFT Active Matrix LCD Display LCD (Black Color) [+125]

MONITOR2:None

MONITOR3:None

MOTHERBOARD:[CrossFireX] ASUS M5A97 LE R2.0 AMD 970 Chipset CrossFireX Support DDR3 Socket AM3+ ATX w/ 7.1 Audio, GbLAN, USB3.0, SATA-III, RAID, 2 Gen2 PCIe X16, 2 PCIe X1 & 2 PCI (Pro OC Certified)

MOUSE:AZZA Optical 1600dpi Gaming Mouse with Weight Adjustable Cartridge

NETWORK:Onboard Gigabit LAN Network

OS:Microsoft® Windows 7 Home Premium [+104] (64-bit Edition)

OVERCLOCK:Pro OC (Performance Overclock 10% or more) [+19]

POWERSUPPLY:700 Watts - Standard Power Supply - SLI/CrossFireX Ready

RUSH:RUSH!!! READY TO SHIP IN NEXT BUSINESS DAY [+109]

SERVICE:STANDARD WARRANTY: 3-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY PLUS LIFE-TIME TECHNICAL SUPPORT

SOUND:HIGH DEFINITION ON-BOARD 7.1 AUDIO

SPEAKERS:600Watts PMPO Subwoofer Stereo Speakers

TEMP:None

TVRC:None

USB:None

USBFLASH:None

USBHD:None

USBX:NZXT Internal USB 6-PORT Expansion Module [+19]

VIDEO:NVIDIA GeForce GTX 550 Ti 2GB 16X PCIe Video Card [+26] (Major Brand Powered by NVIDIA)

VIDEO2:NVIDIA GeForce GTX 550 Ti 1GB 16X PCIe Video Card [+115] (Major Brand Powered by NVIDIA)

VIDEO3:None

WNC:None

_PRICE:(+1419)

_view_:{071CDA45-8C3B-49E2-B6DC-82D02ADC96E0}

_load_:9/30/2012 3:07:21 AM

A. Yes, that configuration would play WoW and Borderlands 2 on ultra without lag.

But it's not the most cost-effective build for the money. You're burning money on things which don't improve performance and skimping in other areas you shouldn't.

First of all, dual GTX 550 Ti's is quite powerful. However, it's always better to have a single higher-end card than a pair of lesser cards running in SLI or Crossfire. SLI performance doesn't scale equally for all games. SLI/CF setups also experience more graphics driver glitches/bugs and also may run afoul of micro-stuttering. Instead of two GTX 550 Ti cards, you're better off with a single GTX 660, which can play top-end titles like BF3 on ultra at 1080p.

By the way, for WoW and Borderlands 2 on that 1366x768 monitor, even a single GTX 550 Ti is enough to run smoothly on ultra.

Second, AMD processors have weaker gaming performance than Intel. Core i5 is the best choice for gaming builds. Even Core i3 beats most AMD processors.

http://www.xbitlabs.com/articles/cpu/display/amd-fx-8120-6100-4100_6.html#sect0

Third, putting 16GB of RAM into a gaming rig is just wasting money. No games utilize more than 4GB of RAM. With 8GB you've got enough to keep your rig future-proof for the next 3-4 years. Gaming requires a high-end graphics

Fourth, you want a good quality power supply- something from a top brand like Corsair or Antec, not the generic one.

Finally, why do you have a secondary hard drive of 500GB? There's no reason for it... and unless you're storing a TON of videos and music, 2TB isn't needed for your main drive. A 1TB drive would be plenty. You might consider an SSD for super-fast boot times along with a 1TB secondary drive, but that's a degree of decadence you might not be interested in ;)

Instead of starting with the Mega Special I, start with the Mega Special III (base price $825)

I suggest taking the air cooling option - Cooler master Hyper 212 EVO rather than liquid cooling. That's fine even for moderate overclocking (which isn't necessary with a Core i5) and is basically zero maintenance.

Upgrade to the Corsair TX650 power supply and 2GB GTX 660 (which is currently a free upgrade from the GTX 560 Ti)

Keep the default Gigabyte GA-Z77-D3H motherboard and 8GB of 1600Mhz RAM... those are fine.

You can still chose the Raidmax Augusta case if you really like it... Otherwise the default Cooler Master HAF 912 is just as good and costs less.

Add 64-bit Windows 7, your Azza gaming keyboard and mouse, your 600W PMPO speakers (although I recommend at least getting the Creative T3130) and you're set.

You can choose their ultra care options, although they're pretty much a rip-off. The professional wiring option is pointless when you're running a single graphics card- there's PLENTY of space inside the case, no airflow problems. The ultra enhanced packaging is just some extra foam that won't really matter if the delivery guy tosses the box over a fence. Assuming it doesn't suffer some awful mishap, their standard packaging provides ample protection.

Even with the Thermal Fusion 400 compound and Professional wiring options, your total is $1207 before taxes/shipping, without monitor.

I advise AGAINST getting your monitor from CyberpowerPC, I don't really like their prices, or the models offered. Get that from Newegg or Amazon. For example, this:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824113030

Or if you want a full 1080p monitor, this one:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824009316

So you spend less, for a better-performing system. Good luck!

Original Question

Need help building a <700$ Gaming Computer 2012?

Q. Parts not required : Keyboard , Monitor , Mouse , Speakers , OS , Modem
Monitor resolution : 1360 x 768
Preffered site : www.newegg.com
Able to run the following game on it's highest : Battlefield 3 , Diablo 3 , Crysis 3 , Borderlands 2
MOBO : None
Optical drive : ASUS DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS Black SATA 24X DVD Burner - Bulk - OEM
Case : Rosewill CHALLENGER Black Gaming ATX Mid Tower Computer Case,
HDD : None <500GB>
GPU : XFX Double D HD-687A-ZDFC Radeon HD 6870
PSU : None
CPU : None <Quad core + At least 3GHz>
CPU Cooler : COOLER MASTER Hyper 212 EVO
RAM : G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 8GB (2 x 4GB)
Please help me fill in the one with None(s) in it with the following requirement

A. Generally, you either go dual core i3 on the cpu, or AMD FX-4100, so, lets go with the FX-4100 with the 4 locked cores.
www.cpubenchmark.net/cpu_list.php
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103996

I don't see a core unlocker, but everything else on this MB looks good enough:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131767
www.asus.com/Motherboards/
AMD_AM3Plus/M5A97/
reconnect above
Bundles with good memory
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.1005496
or the CPU:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.985605
And choose a Sata III (6Gb/s) 7200 rpm drive
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=100007603%20600003340&IsNodeId=1&bop=And&SrchInDesc=6%2E0gb%2Fs&Page=1&PageSize=20
You can wait with a cpu cooler.
To go with the HD 6870, you will need a power supply to handle
151 Watts as 500 Watt min & 28 Amps on 12V
http://www.game-debate.com/hardware/index.php?gid=452&graphics=Radeon%20HD%206870
http://www.notebookcheck.net/Computer-Games-on-Laptop-Graphic-Cards.13849.0.html
This would work:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817159125
or: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817159128
GPU? http://www.amazon.com/XFX-Radeon-MINIDP-PCI-E-HD687AZHFC/dp/B005C31F2M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1343704848&sr=8-1&keywords=XFX+Double+D+HD-687A-ZDFC+Radeon+HD+6870+1GB+Video+Card

I think you hold to budget

Original Question

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Quitting Video Games?

Q. Ok so lately I have been getting very angry at video games. It's just me losing at them. It's not that I don't like losing, I just hate when I lose because something unfair happens, I get very angry. Examples are when I'm playing GTA 4 and I'm winning but when I die I spawn away from everyone else. Then when I finally get close to the action they all die and they spawn somewhere far away... Or when I am playing MW3 and someone uses lag switches or other hacks, it makes me upset that they are making the game unfair for everyone else because they suck enough to use hacks. When I get angry, I throw my controller at the wall, throw my game disk against the wall, I even punch the computer monitor when it acts slow. Anyways, should I just quit video games, or try to suppress my anger somehow? I"m 15 btw

A. Off topic: http://weknowmemes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/were-playing-a-game-its-not-supposed-to-be-fun.jpg

Seriously though, I think that you shouldn't quit video games as they are helpful in relieving stress. I notice that both of the games that you mentioned were muliplayer, so why not try something that's not? Portal is an extremely fun game that requires you to solve puzzles with portals and maneuver your way throughout the map.

Another game you can try is Bioshock. It's offline and has an amazing story. Not exactly stress relieving as it can be tense at times, but it is overall a fun game that tells a great story.

My personal favorite PC game though is Gary's Mod. A game where you can do almost anything, it can lead to some extremely fun situations.

If you would like to continue playing those games I would recommend you take breaks in between matches and bring a stress ball when you are playing.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal_(video_game)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bioshock
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gary%27s_Mod

Original Question

Gaming PC build that could run any game for the next few years?

Q. I'm looking into building a new gaming PC. I would like to be able to play games like Battlefield 3, Guild Wars 2, and other games coming out in the next few years. I want this computer to last me at least 4 years without needing any expensive upgrades. My budget is about 800 but I'd be willing to go up to 1000. I want to max these games out and run them at a full steady 60 frames per second.
Thanks.

A. Depends if you still need a monitor and/or an operating system


If you have a monitor and operating system then try this:

PCPartPicker part list: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/uniq
Price breakdown by merchant: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/uniq/by_merchant/
Benchmarks: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/uniq/benchmarks/

CPU: Intel Core i7-2600K 3.4GHz Quad-Core Processor ($279.99 @ NCIX US)
Motherboard: MSI Z77A-G41 ATX LGA1155 Motherboard ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill Value Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1333 Memory ($37.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Black 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($89.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: XFX Radeon HD 7950 3GB Video Card ($292.55 @ Newegg)
Case: Azza CSAZ-1000 ATX Full Tower Case ($89.98 @ NCIX US)
Power Supply: XFX ProSeries 750W 80 PLUS Silver Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($79.99 @ NCIX US)
Optical Drive: Asus DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS DVD/CD Writer ($24.98 @ Newegg)
Total: $965.46
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2012-12-27 00:43 EST-0500)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

If you already have a monitor but no operating system then:

PCPartPicker part list: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/unhd
Price breakdown by merchant: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/unhd/by_merchant/
Benchmarks: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/unhd/benchmarks/

CPU: Intel Core i7-2600K 3.4GHz Quad-Core Processor ($279.99 @ NCIX US)
Motherboard: MSI Z77A-G41 ATX LGA1155 Motherboard ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill Value Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1333 Memory ($37.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Black 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($89.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: Sapphire Radeon HD 6950 2GB Video Card ($216.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Case: Azza CSAZ-1000 ATX Full Tower Case ($89.98 @ NCIX US)
Power Supply: XFX ProSeries 750W 80 PLUS Silver Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($79.99 @ NCIX US)
Optical Drive: Asus DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS DVD/CD Writer ($24.98 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($89.98 @ Outlet PC)
Total: $979.87
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2012-12-27 00:41 EST-0500)

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Operating System but no monitor:

PCPartPicker part list: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/unmL
Price breakdown by merchant: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/unmL/by_merchant/
Benchmarks: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/unmL/benchmarks/

CPU: Intel Core i5-3570K 3.4GHz Quad-Core Processor ($189.99 @ Microcenter)
Motherboard: MSI Z77A-G41 ATX LGA1155 Motherboard ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill NS Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1333 Memory ($37.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Black 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($89.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: PowerColor Radeon HD 6950 1GB Video Card ($263.22 @ NCIX US)
Case: Azza CSAZ-1000 ATX Full Tower Case ($89.98 @ NCIX US)
Power Supply: XFX ProSeries 750W 80 PLUS Silver Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($79.99 @ NCIX US)
Optical Drive: Asus DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS DVD/CD Writer ($24.98 @ Newegg)
Monitor: Acer G245HQLbd 60Hz 23.6" Monitor ($129.99 @ Amazon)
Total: $976.12
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2012-12-27 00:50 EST-0500)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Other options:
Downgrade CPU to a Intel i5 2310 and get a 32gb SSD to install the operating system on

Original Question

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Gaming computer build?

Q. Hi people. I was wanting a new gaming desktop to play WoW and Borderlands 2 on. Will this set up not Lag on Ultra on either of these games? I'm gtting this from cyberpowerpc. My buget is $1600. BASE_PRICE:[+759]

BLUETOOTH:None

CARE1:Ultra Enhanced Packaging Solution - Protect Your Dream System During Transit [+19]

CARE2:Cooler Master Thermal Fusion 400 Extreme Performance CPU - Thermal Compound Optimized for Thermal Dissipation [+10]

CARE3:Professional Wiring for All WIRING Inside The System Chassis - Minimize Cable Exposure, Maximize Airflow in Your System [+19]

CAS:Raidmax Agusta Mid-Tower Gaming Case w/ 1x USB 3.0 Port, Fan & LED Light Control (White/Black)

CASUPGRADE:None

CD:24X Double Layer Dual Format DVD+-R/+-RW + CD-R/RW Drive (BLACK COLOR)

CD2:None

COOLANT:Standard Coolant

CPU:AMD FX-6100 3.30 GHz Six-Core AM3+ CPU 6MB L2 Cache & Turbo Core Technology [+0]

CS_FAN:Maximum 120MM Color Case Cooling Fans for your selected case [+15] (Blue Color)

ENGRAVING:None

ENGRAVING_MSG:

FA_HDD:None

FAN:Asetek 510LC Liquid Cooling System 120MM Radiator & Fan (Enhanced Cooling Performance + Extreme Silent at 20dBA) (Single Standard 120MM Fan)

FLASHMEDIA:INTERNAL 12in1 Flash Media Reader/Writer (BLACK COLOR)

FREEBIE_MB:None

GLASSES:None

HDD:2TB (2TBx1) SATA-III 6.0Gb/s 64MB Cache 7200RPM HDD (Single Drive)

HDD2:500GB SATA-II 3.0Gb/s 16MB Cache 7200RPM HDD [+65] (Single Hard Drive)

IEEE_CARD:None

IUSB:Built-in USB 2.0 Ports

KEYBOARD:AZZA Multimedia USB Gaming Keyboard

MEMORY:16GB (8GBx2) DDR3/1333MHz Dual Channel Memory [+15] (Corsair or Major Brand)

MONITOR:19" Widescreen 1366x768 Sceptre X195W-NAGA 5ms TFT Active Matrix LCD Display LCD (Black Color) [+125]

MONITOR2:None

MONITOR3:None

MOTHERBOARD:[CrossFireX] ASUS M5A97 LE R2.0 AMD 970 Chipset CrossFireX Support DDR3 Socket AM3+ ATX w/ 7.1 Audio, GbLAN, USB3.0, SATA-III, RAID, 2 Gen2 PCIe X16, 2 PCIe X1 & 2 PCI (Pro OC Certified)

MOUSE:AZZA Optical 1600dpi Gaming Mouse with Weight Adjustable Cartridge

NETWORK:Onboard Gigabit LAN Network

OS:Microsoft® Windows 7 Home Premium [+104] (64-bit Edition)

OVERCLOCK:Pro OC (Performance Overclock 10% or more) [+19]

POWERSUPPLY:700 Watts - Standard Power Supply - SLI/CrossFireX Ready

RUSH:RUSH!!! READY TO SHIP IN NEXT BUSINESS DAY [+109]

SERVICE:STANDARD WARRANTY: 3-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY PLUS LIFE-TIME TECHNICAL SUPPORT

SOUND:HIGH DEFINITION ON-BOARD 7.1 AUDIO

SPEAKERS:600Watts PMPO Subwoofer Stereo Speakers

TEMP:None

TVRC:None

USB:None

USBFLASH:None

USBHD:None

USBX:NZXT Internal USB 6-PORT Expansion Module [+19]

VIDEO:NVIDIA GeForce GTX 550 Ti 2GB 16X PCIe Video Card [+26] (Major Brand Powered by NVIDIA)

VIDEO2:NVIDIA GeForce GTX 550 Ti 1GB 16X PCIe Video Card [+115] (Major Brand Powered by NVIDIA)

VIDEO3:None

WNC:None

_PRICE:(+1419)

_view_:{071CDA45-8C3B-49E2-B6DC-82D02ADC96E0}

_load_:9/30/2012 3:07:21 AM

A. Yes, that configuration would play WoW and Borderlands 2 on ultra without lag.

But it's not the most cost-effective build for the money. You're burning money on things which don't improve performance and skimping in other areas you shouldn't.

First of all, dual GTX 550 Ti's is quite powerful. However, it's always better to have a single higher-end card than a pair of lesser cards running in SLI or Crossfire. SLI performance doesn't scale equally for all games. SLI/CF setups also experience more graphics driver glitches/bugs and also may run afoul of micro-stuttering. Instead of two GTX 550 Ti cards, you're better off with a single GTX 660, which can play top-end titles like BF3 on ultra at 1080p.

By the way, for WoW and Borderlands 2 on that 1366x768 monitor, even a single GTX 550 Ti is enough to run smoothly on ultra.

Second, AMD processors have weaker gaming performance than Intel. Core i5 is the best choice for gaming builds. Even Core i3 beats most AMD processors.

http://www.xbitlabs.com/articles/cpu/display/amd-fx-8120-6100-4100_6.html#sect0

Third, putting 16GB of RAM into a gaming rig is just wasting money. No games utilize more than 4GB of RAM. With 8GB you've got enough to keep your rig future-proof for the next 3-4 years. Gaming requires a high-end graphics

Fourth, you want a good quality power supply- something from a top brand like Corsair or Antec, not the generic one.

Finally, why do you have a secondary hard drive of 500GB? There's no reason for it... and unless you're storing a TON of videos and music, 2TB isn't needed for your main drive. A 1TB drive would be plenty. You might consider an SSD for super-fast boot times along with a 1TB secondary drive, but that's a degree of decadence you might not be interested in ;)

Instead of starting with the Mega Special I, start with the Mega Special III (base price $825)

I suggest taking the air cooling option - Cooler master Hyper 212 EVO rather than liquid cooling. That's fine even for moderate overclocking (which isn't necessary with a Core i5) and is basically zero maintenance.

Upgrade to the Corsair TX650 power supply and 2GB GTX 660 (which is currently a free upgrade from the GTX 560 Ti)

Keep the default Gigabyte GA-Z77-D3H motherboard and 8GB of 1600Mhz RAM... those are fine.

You can still chose the Raidmax Augusta case if you really like it... Otherwise the default Cooler Master HAF 912 is just as good and costs less.

Add 64-bit Windows 7, your Azza gaming keyboard and mouse, your 600W PMPO speakers (although I recommend at least getting the Creative T3130) and you're set.

You can choose their ultra care options, although they're pretty much a rip-off. The professional wiring option is pointless when you're running a single graphics card- there's PLENTY of space inside the case, no airflow problems. The ultra enhanced packaging is just some extra foam that won't really matter if the delivery guy tosses the box over a fence. Assuming it doesn't suffer some awful mishap, their standard packaging provides ample protection.

Even with the Thermal Fusion 400 compound and Professional wiring options, your total is $1207 before taxes/shipping, without monitor.

I advise AGAINST getting your monitor from CyberpowerPC, I don't really like their prices, or the models offered. Get that from Newegg or Amazon. For example, this:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824113030

Or if you want a full 1080p monitor, this one:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824009316

So you spend less, for a better-performing system. Good luck!

Original Question

Need help building a <700$ Gaming Computer 2012?

Q. Parts not required : Keyboard , Monitor , Mouse , Speakers , OS , Modem
Monitor resolution : 1360 x 768
Preffered site : www.newegg.com
Able to run the following game on it's highest : Battlefield 3 , Diablo 3 , Crysis 3 , Borderlands 2
MOBO : None
Optical drive : ASUS DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS Black SATA 24X DVD Burner - Bulk - OEM
Case : Rosewill CHALLENGER Black Gaming ATX Mid Tower Computer Case,
HDD : None <500GB>
GPU : XFX Double D HD-687A-ZDFC Radeon HD 6870
PSU : None
CPU : None <Quad core + At least 3GHz>
CPU Cooler : COOLER MASTER Hyper 212 EVO
RAM : G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 8GB (2 x 4GB)
Please help me fill in the one with None(s) in it with the following requirement

A. Generally, you either go dual core i3 on the cpu, or AMD FX-4100, so, lets go with the FX-4100 with the 4 locked cores.
www.cpubenchmark.net/cpu_list.php
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103996

I don't see a core unlocker, but everything else on this MB looks good enough:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131767
www.asus.com/Motherboards/
AMD_AM3Plus/M5A97/
reconnect above
Bundles with good memory
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.1005496
or the CPU:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.985605
And choose a Sata III (6Gb/s) 7200 rpm drive
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=100007603%20600003340&IsNodeId=1&bop=And&SrchInDesc=6%2E0gb%2Fs&Page=1&PageSize=20
You can wait with a cpu cooler.
To go with the HD 6870, you will need a power supply to handle
151 Watts as 500 Watt min & 28 Amps on 12V
http://www.game-debate.com/hardware/index.php?gid=452&graphics=Radeon%20HD%206870
http://www.notebookcheck.net/Computer-Games-on-Laptop-Graphic-Cards.13849.0.html
This would work:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817159125
or: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817159128
GPU? http://www.amazon.com/XFX-Radeon-MINIDP-PCI-E-HD687AZHFC/dp/B005C31F2M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1343704848&sr=8-1&keywords=XFX+Double+D+HD-687A-ZDFC+Radeon+HD+6870+1GB+Video+Card

I think you hold to budget

Original Question

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How much computer stuff would I need to play Rome Total War 2 for optimum performance and graphics?

Q. Need a new computer. Not really a tech junkie so keep the explanation simple. What kind of computer would be good? How many graphics or Sound cards would I need? How much will it cost me to play this game. Im such a fan I must know

A. Well it's not released yet, so nobody is 100% certain right now. However, it's going to have a new engine and people expect it will have similar requirements to Total War: Shogun 2.

http://diaryofdennis.wordpress.com/2012/07/03/total-war-rome-2-estimated-system-requirements-and-release-date-probably-2013/

So basically, that means a desktop computer around $800-$900. The bottom-line specs you'll want:

1 - Core i5 processor (2nd or 3rd generation)

2 - At least 4GB of RAM (almost all new systems come with 8GB anyway)

3 - A graphics card around $125-$150, at least a Radeon HD 7770 or GeForce GTX 560 SE. Get a $170 card like a GeForce GTX 560 or Radeon HD 6870 and you'll be way in the clear.

http://www.anandtech.com/show/5541/amd-radeon-hd-7750-radeon-hd-7770-ghz-edition-review/14

Building from scratch is the best option, as pre-built systems typically don't have good graphics cards. You could always buy a $600 computer from Best Buy and upgrade the graphics card and power supply yourself, or pay a tech to install 'em for you. You could also look into getting a custom-built system from CyberpowerPC or Ibuypower's websites, but that costs more.

Here are some stock computers that would work:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16883229335
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16883227412
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16883227435

But you'd be better off buying this:
http://www.amazon.com/Gateway-DX-Series-DX4860-UR14P-Desktop/dp/B007W11590/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1349292447&sr=1-2&keywords=gateway+desktop+i5

Then adding these:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817371031
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814130661

If you're planning to play on a full HD monitor (1920x1080 resolution) then you should get a 2GB graphics card. But the card model is more important than the memory. Don't think for a second that a $60 card with 2GB would work. You'll need a gaming-level card, like this:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814129230

Anyway, upgrading a starting computer might save you $100-$150 compared to looking for a pre-built system with the specs you want.

Original Question

Is it normal for my 2012 macbook air to get really hot?

Q. I recently picked up a 2012 MacBook Air, and downloaded a program called SMCfancontrol. I like to use it to monitor temperatures while I play games such as minecraft on it.

When I play, it gets anywhere between 90-100 degrees Celsius. That's rather hot.
Is it normal for MacBook Air models to heat up?

A. Hey, that is a great question, I hope this information helps.
Ask Apple here for free
1-800-MY-Apple ,and...
Check out the sites for more information.
https://discussions.apple.com/index.jspa
http://www.apple.com/contact/feedback.ht…
http://www.macworld.com/ http://www.apple.com/support/ and
https://discussions.apple.com/thread/2468023?start=0&tstart=0
http://www.apple.com/macosx/recovery/
http://appleid.apple.com
http://www.apple.com/support/mac/facetime/
http://www.ifixit.com/iPad-Parts and Mac parts
http://store.apple.com/us/product/MC573Z…


Source(s):
CompTIA A+ Certified Computer Professional

Original Question

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Is buying a old computer with newer parts better?

Q. I've been looking on sites like dell.com, and you know other computer websites, and it seems that if you buy a older pc model with newer parts than it is alot cheaper and would run better, is this true?

A. It depends upon how you plan to use the computer.

If you write papers using windows wordpad or Microsoft Word, use spreadsheets, powerpoint presentations, chat and IM, email and perhaps listen to music or watch an occassional You Tube
or other television, and you facebook or online date, an older PC with at least a Pentium 4 at 2 gigahertz is sufficient, and an 80 gig hard drive. Minimum 512 megabytes preferably 1 gigabyte.

However, if you plan on storing music and videoes, and you want to burn CD's or DVD's or you want to use a TV tuner card, you need at least 2006 year technology, which means an Athlon dual core or an Intel core 2 duo. You would need at least 1 gigabyte of ram too. This is
also important if you want to run an operating system such as Window 7 or Vista (Vista had problems, only get it if it is already installed on the older computer you are buying) .

HOWEVER, if you are a gamer, especially if you play highly graphical role playing online games
such as Star Wars - The Old Republic, YOU WILL NOT LIKE AN OLD COMPUTER.

I am not a gamer so I don't understand this fully, but those who play that game are always complaining about processors that seem extremely fast to me. If you are a gamer or plan to
be one, you need a 4 core 8 thread intel processor such as an i7 955 and an extremely powerful
graphics card. That means 2011+ technology such as a radeon hd 6850 graphics card and either
an intel i5 or i7 processor, OR an AMD Phenom ii x4 processor from 840 to 955 or higher. If it is
x6 or x8, that is even better. The x number is the number of processor cores on an AMD processor. If you want to watch Blu Rays or other 1080p multimedia, you need an extremely
powerful processor, although intel i3 or AMD Athlon ii's of at least 2.5 gigahertz should be sufficient.

IF YOU ARE NOT A GAMER, those expensive processors are unnecessary, a simple dual core
is more than enough to accomplish every nongaming task I can imagine (with the possible exception
of multimedia, converting a movie from one file format to another- or working with high definition
video content.


In 2012, you don't, for any task, want any processor older than a Pentium 4, except possibly
if you run Ubuntu or other Linux, a Pentium iii of 1 gigahertz will run ok, for basic tasks.

I would only buy a Pentium III box if it were $12 or less. Pentium 4 boxes upto 1 gigabyte of ram
and up to a 120 gig hard drive WITH A LICENSED COPY of Windows XP should be $110 or less
new and $50 with the licensed XP if used. If you have to get your own Windows XP, then the box should be $40 or less, not including your monitor or including a CRT monitor.

Original Question

I experience derealization. How can I make it go away or deal with it without the overwhelming fear?

Q. I get very afraid of death and 2012 and life in general. I start thinking the craziest thing and sometimes get verryyy weirded out by normal body functions and natural things. I sometimes look at myself wrong in the mirror and get extremely freaked. How can I deal with this!!!!!! :(

A. In the year 999, many people believed that the coming of the millenium would be the end of the world. IT DIDN'T HAPPEN! Similarly, with 1999: IT DIDN'T HAPPEN! And Y2K and the computers crashing: IT DIDN'T HAPPEN! And when the planets lined up: IT DIDN'T HAPPEN! Now, it is 2012: IT WON'T HAPPEN!!!

Derealisation is addressed in section 46, at http://www.ezy-build.net.nz/~shaneris Employ those techniques. Only use a small hand mirror to check appearance, so just a small part of the body may be seen at a time, yet anything wrong will still be immediately apparent; cover (taping over/painting) full length mirrors. It is important to regularly monitor, and deal with a negative internal monologue (self talk), or mental process, such as disturbing thoughts, images, impulses, or emotions, by the process of (a): recognising it, and (b): challenging it immediately.

Technique For Re-Programming Negative Thoughts: When you notice something negative, such as: "I'm never going to get over this!" or: "Why am I always so pathetic/useless/such a loser?" or even: "I can't do this/will never get over this!", even an image, emotion, or a memory; recognise that this is being generated from the negative part of your mind. Having identified and labelled it, visualise a large, red, flashing, "STOP!" sign, and/or possibly a stern faced person wagging an index finger at you in a negative manner, then say to yourself as forcefully as you can, even aloud in a big voice, if alone: "I know this tactic: GO AWAY FOR A WHILE !!!" You may want to use either: "ruse", "ploy", "game", or "trick", instead of "tactic". In the case of an image, visualise a large "STOP" sign, or your preferred version. Some people go so far as to keep a wide rubber band in their pocket, then put it around their wrist, when they catch themselves backsliding, stretch and release it, as a method of reprogramming their mind sooner, but I don't regard it as being strictly necessary.

Remember to remove it, afterwards, if you use this method. Try replacing a negative thought with a positive affirmation of your choice, like: "I am a unique individual, with my own set of skills, and good points", or "I may not be perfect, but I'm doing the best I can, right now". Imagine, as vividly as you possibly can, that your concerns, anxieties, worries, fears, your self-recriminations, all the agonizing "I'm-so-Stupids," and "I'm-too-fats"; every painful "I-can't-I-have-it" or "I-can't-do-it"are huge raging, hurtful bulls snorting and charging at you. You see them coming at you and you hold out your red matador's cape at arms length and simply let them charge right by. Every time they come at you, hold out your arm with the red cape and let them rage and snort and go right on past. Practice the progressive muscle relaxation, in section 11, at ezy build.

Set yourself a specific time period for worrying about anything, (say; around three quarters of an hour, possibly when you get home, or after your evening meal, but not too close to bedtime) after which, resolve firmly to refuse to even entertain the thought of worrying again on that day: realise and accept that to do otherwise would be counterproductive to your mental health, and enjoyment of life. You will have had your "worry time" for the day, and can just write down any more thoughts that come to mind, and say to yourself: "Well, I'll just have to worry about that tomorrow, won't I?".

Original Question

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What is the best gaming desktop I can buy?

Q. I have around $800 to spend. I want to be able to play Crysis 3 and Far Cry 3 on maximum graphics. Please list the specs I need. I'm not lazy i just don't know anything about computers. I've been researching for days on what computer to get. Please help! Thanks!

A. The one you build yourself.....
NEVER buy a gaming computer.

Yahoo answers will only allow up to 10 links, so I have to leave out the not so important components. Just copy paste in the search field on Newegg to find them, I will give the full name but no link for those.

BEST BUDGET GAMING DESKTOP PC BUILD FOR THE MONEY (under $750.00USD for the tower only)
Monitor, keyboard and mouse can add from $175 to over $500, depending on size and model you want.
All prices are in $USD and in the USA, current as of December 2012 and they might be slightly different one way or the other by now.
Also, some shipping charges may apply to some of the items.
Add your state sales tax if you reside in NJ, CA or TN - that's where Newegg has warehouses.
Look for similar parts on Amazon, Tiger Direct, etc if you want to avoid paying Uncle Sam.

FACT: INTEL IS A MUCH BETTER PROCESSOR FOR GAMING THAN ANY AMD.

Processor: Intel Core i3-3220 Ivy Bridge 3.3GHz LGA 1155 55W Dual-Core Desktop Processor - $119.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819116775
Motherboard: ASRock Z77 Pro3 LGA 1155 Intel Z77 HDMI SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX Intel Motherboard - $94.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813157297
After market CPU Cooler - Cooler Master Hyper EVO - $35.99 (Stock Intel cooler sucks and it's noisy too)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835103099
Memory (RAM): G.Skill Ripjaws X Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM 1600MHz - $39.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231428
Graphics Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 650 Ti 1GB 128-bit GDDR5 PCI Express 3.0 x16 - $149.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814130838
Hard Drive: 500GB Seagate Barracuda SATA III (6.0Gb/s), 7200rpm - $59.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16822148767
Optical Drive: LITE-ON DVD Burner - Bulk Black SATA Model iHAS124-04 - OEM - $17.99
Power Supply (PSU): CORSAIR Builder Series CX600 V2 600W ATX12V v2.3 80 PLUS Certified Active PFC Power Supply - $69.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139028
PC Case (Tower): Rosewill CHALLENGER Black Gaming ATX Mid Tower Computer Case - $49.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811147153
Operating System (OS): Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 64-bit OEM - $99.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16832116986

TOTAL: $747.90USD

Good luck with your build.

*****************
NOTES:
For only $10 more, you can get a better PC Case:
COOLER MASTER HAF 912 RC-912-KKN1 Black SECC/ ABS Plastic ATX Mid Tower Computer Case - $59.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811119233

Original Question

How much computer stuff would I need to play Rome Total War 2 for optimum performance and graphics?

Q. Need a new computer. Not really a tech junkie so keep the explanation simple. What kind of computer would be good? How many graphics or Sound cards would I need? How much will it cost me to play this game. Im such a fan I must know

A. Well it's not released yet, so nobody is 100% certain right now. However, it's going to have a new engine and people expect it will have similar requirements to Total War: Shogun 2.

http://diaryofdennis.wordpress.com/2012/07/03/total-war-rome-2-estimated-system-requirements-and-release-date-probably-2013/

So basically, that means a desktop computer around $800-$900. The bottom-line specs you'll want:

1 - Core i5 processor (2nd or 3rd generation)

2 - At least 4GB of RAM (almost all new systems come with 8GB anyway)

3 - A graphics card around $125-$150, at least a Radeon HD 7770 or GeForce GTX 560 SE. Get a $170 card like a GeForce GTX 560 or Radeon HD 6870 and you'll be way in the clear.

http://www.anandtech.com/show/5541/amd-radeon-hd-7750-radeon-hd-7770-ghz-edition-review/14

Building from scratch is the best option, as pre-built systems typically don't have good graphics cards. You could always buy a $600 computer from Best Buy and upgrade the graphics card and power supply yourself, or pay a tech to install 'em for you. You could also look into getting a custom-built system from CyberpowerPC or Ibuypower's websites, but that costs more.

Here are some stock computers that would work:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16883229335
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16883227412
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16883227435

But you'd be better off buying this:
http://www.amazon.com/Gateway-DX-Series-DX4860-UR14P-Desktop/dp/B007W11590/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1349292447&sr=1-2&keywords=gateway+desktop+i5

Then adding these:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817371031
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814130661

If you're planning to play on a full HD monitor (1920x1080 resolution) then you should get a 2GB graphics card. But the card model is more important than the memory. Don't think for a second that a $60 card with 2GB would work. You'll need a gaming-level card, like this:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814129230

Anyway, upgrading a starting computer might save you $100-$150 compared to looking for a pre-built system with the specs you want.

Original Question

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