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Cuper
05-20-06, 03:50 PM
Hey,

So hopefully in the next couple of weeks I will start building up 2 computers. I was hoping you guys could answer a couple of questions that I have and give any advise where you want :).


Computer 1 - My dad's computer.

So my father has a XP1800 computer that I built him several years ago in a coolermaster case (which will be for sale :D) and he wants to go small. The coolermaster is just too large sitting under his desk. I am really trying to emphasize crunching power, an efficient power setup and low noise. The computer will only be used for basic stuff like, internet, word, some music, and stuff like that. Nothing more.

With that said I was thinking of going with a mini-itx/micro atx with a Pentium M. I also would like to incorp. a efficient power supply and a notebook hard drive. If the computer wasn't going to be on and crunching as much as it will be I wouldn't think about trying to use a more efficient platform.

Here is an interesting link with some power consumption numbers.

http://www.pcper.com/article.php?aid=133&type=expert&pid=16

Power runs about .13 kwh for my parents so that = about $100 or more in saving for my father over the coarse of a year. Nothing to sneeze at IMO.

I am leaning with the DFI board but am open to suggestions.


Computer 2 - My HTPC

Now I have only started to look into what it takes to make a HTPC but again I would like to take as little power up as possible. I don't plan on doing HD right now, maybe in the future but not now. I don't see my buying a HD tv in the next year or more. I am really looking to make something that is going to replace my Tivo (which I am going to sell on ebay since I have a lifetime subscription.) I figure I can get around $400 for my Tivo so am looking for that price range for motherboard, cpu, power supply and ram. I have plenty of HDs.

I really haven't no clue on this one so will love any advice! :) If I can use another Pentium M I would love to do that.

THANKS in advance!!!


For those interested, here is an art. on a High Eff. power supply.

http://www.pcper.com/article.php?aid=187&type=expert
Dk Jedi Allianc
05-20-06, 05:25 PM
In both cases I would look at a Soc 754 mobo which can handle a Turion CPU. Those are great CPU´s. Consumes 24-32W and would fit perfectly in small case with low-noise cooling. ALso the Turion comes with either 512 or 1MB L2 - depending on model.

My second suggestion would be to check out those new Intels: Core Duo.
Cuper
05-20-06, 07:26 PM
In both cases I would look at a Soc 754 mobo which can handle a Turion CPU. Those are great CPU´s. Consumes 24-32W and would fit perfectly in small case with low-noise cooling. ALso the Turion comes with either 512 or 1MB L2 - depending on model.

My second suggestion would be to check out those new Intels: Core Duo.


Thanks for the suggestion! I am looking into the Turion now, looks like finding a motherboard is a little tricky :) BUT CHEAPER! :D THANKS!
hitokiri_808
05-20-06, 09:03 PM
I would recommend a Core Duo as well. It would really make a difference in crunching power, and save power over a Pentium D.
Cuper
05-20-06, 10:22 PM
I would recommend a Core Duo as well. It would really make a difference in crunching power, and save power over a Pentium D.


Just curious what type of increase in Seti I would see? It is sig. more than the other options so don't know the likely hood I will go that way.
btoups
05-21-06, 11:03 PM
Sell TIVO what are you thinking? Sacrilege I say!

Good luck with your build.
Cuper
05-22-06, 02:05 AM
Sell TIVO what are you thinking? Sacrilege I say!

Good luck with your build.


HaHa, I was waiting for someone to say something like that. :beer:
hitokiri_808
05-22-06, 02:42 AM
Just curious what type of increase in Seti I would see? It is sig. more than the other options so don't know the likely hood I will go that way.


I don't know any exact numbers, but I would expect it to be pretty good. 2MB cache per core, and since they are 65nm, heat and power consumption should only be a bit more than the M. But I checked the price on Newegg and its $400 for a 2GHz Duo. More than I would like to spend on a chip. :shrug:
Cuper
05-22-06, 02:31 PM
I don't know any exact numbers, but I would expect it to be pretty good. 2MB cache per core, and since they are 65nm, heat and power consumption should only be a bit more than the M. But I checked the price on Newegg and its $400 for a 2GHz Duo. More than I would like to spend on a chip. :shrug:


Ya I saw that. A little too high for my price range...