Building 1st computer

[specter]

Hey guys, this is the first time I am building a computer here's what I am looking at:

CPU: Athlon 64 3200+ OEM
Motherboard: AOpen AK86-L
Memory: Mushkin Level 1 1GB PC-3500
Video Card: Built by ATI Radeon 9800 PRO
Hard Drive: Raptor 36.7GB
HSF: Zalman CNPS7000A-ALCU
Sound Card: Sound Blaster Audigy 2 ZS Plat.
Case: Thermaltake Black Xaser III VM3000A
PSU: Antec True430
DVD: Lite-On 16X

Do you guys see any compatibility issues? Someone told me that the Zalman HSF might not fit in this case, does anyone know if this is true? I am planning on OCing this to 2017MHz, and using it mostly for gaming, web surfing, and programming. Any recomendations or 1st time building tips would be appreicated.

Thanks guys

[ashenfang]

well, honestly, I wouldn't go with 64bit just yet. There is nothing thats going to use it for what its worth. I had this same delima and instead, just sticking with 32bit for now. By the time 64bit games/windows/apps are out, there will be a whole new line of 64bit processors. From the reviews/benchmarks I have seen comparing 32bit XP's to 64Bit's, there really isn't a whole lot of performance increase all around to justify the extra money.

[Mr.Radar]

I'd definately go with a 2500+ Barton or 1700+ Tbreb B w/ an NF7-S or A78NX-X if you want AMD. A64's don't have enough software to go with them right now to justify their cost. You might want to get them if you don't plan on upgrading your comp for 3+ years but if you're going to be upgrading your comp in less than 3 years, 32-bit is the way to go.

I'd stay away from the Zalman and get a HS by Theralalright w/ a Panaflo fan if you're conerend with noise but want a good OC.

[xanderjobizzle]

Dont get the 3200 yet when you can spend half the cost on a prosesser that can overclock to that same speed. Save the money and buy a fan speed controler!

-Xander

[coin]

tsk, is everyone getting rude around here:

** WELCOME TO THE FORUMS **

[coin]

Don't bother with 64bit yet all the socket types are due to change in the next few months and as ashenfang said there is very little out there that can use 64bit effectiviely.
As to which Barton to buy, it all depends on how confident you feel. If you are willing to take a bash at overclocking pick a lower chip and overclock. If as you say this is your first computer it might be worth either buying the lower/cheaper chip and waiting for your confidence to build or shell out a bit more for a faster chip.

[LawyerLynn]

I generally agree with the others, skip the 64 bit chip for now. Wait until windows xp64 ships and has gone through its first sevice pack before going 64. the HSF you describe will probably fit in your case (I have an Xaser III "skull" case and it appears there would be room for it in mine). I'd get one I could return if it didn't fit though, just in case. You can see my specs. below. However, if you feel confident in OCing your cpu, several people have reported specs. similar to mine using a 2500 chip and you can save $$ that way. The rest looks pretty good. Good luck, let us know how it goes.

Oh yeah, BTW, WELCOME TO THE FORUM!

[specter]

Thanks for the advice guys. I was going to go A64 because I dont upgrade or buy new computers that often (usually 3 years in between). I just saw an article atAnandtech (http://www.anandtech.com/chipsets/showdoc.html?i=1968) about how A64 mobo's dont have PCI lock, so that is pretty dissapointing.