Buying a new computer and looking for advice

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on building a budget-friendly computer for student-related tasks and gaming, specifically targeting a price point of around $700. The proposed build includes an AMD Athlon II X4 645 processor, MSI 880GM-E43 motherboard, 4GB DDR3 memory, and a 1TB hard drive. The user seeks feedback on the compatibility and performance of the components, particularly for playing games like Starcraft 2 and Civilization 5, while ensuring the system remains viable for upcoming titles over the next few years.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of computer hardware components and their compatibility
  • Familiarity with gaming performance requirements for titles like Starcraft 2 and Civ 5
  • Knowledge of assembly and configuration of desktop PCs
  • Basic understanding of operating systems, specifically Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit
NEXT STEPS
  • Research AMD Athlon II X4 645 performance benchmarks for gaming
  • Explore MSI 880GM-E43 motherboard specifications and user reviews
  • Investigate optimal RAM configurations for gaming performance
  • Learn about budget-friendly gaming graphics cards compatible with the build
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students, budget-conscious gamers, and individuals interested in building their own computers for everyday use and gaming without exceeding a $700 budget.

Ajiera
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Hello. First post on the board, so I would like any help I can get.

Im going to be going back to the US for about a week and in the time I want to pick up a new computer. I looked around and found a good site to build it for me, I picked out the insides and all. I am looking for something on the cheaper side, around 700, and a computer I can use for normal student related work and some games, like Starcraft 2 or Civ 5. Nothing too big, but enough to let me play the new up coming games for a few years.

Here is the build. Let me know if I should change anything or if it works or what. Thanks in advance.

AMD Athlon II X4 645 3.1GHz 2MB Cache FSB 4000MHz HT
Arctic Cooling Alpine ACALP64PWM Ultra Quiet Fan/Heatsink
MSI 880GM-E43 (Radeon HD4250 Video, HDMI, DVI, 5xSATA2, 4xDDR3)
4GB (2GBx2) PC3 10666 DDR3 1333Mhz Memory Lifetime Warranty
1TB 7200RPM 32MB Cache Serial ATA300 (Major Brand)
22X LG SATA Dual Layer DVD+/-RW/CDRW w/Nero
1GB ATI Radeon HD5770 GDDR5 PCI-E DVI/HDMI (Major Brand)
Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium 64bit
Foxconn Black FX-TS001A (3 5.25, 5 3.5) Fan, Front Audio/USB
ISO400 Foxconn Stock Power Supply
Onboard LAN included
Wireless B/G/N PCI Adapter
Onboard Sound included
Internal All in 1 Card Reader
2x 120mm Case Fan
 
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