EggXpert

I primarily will be using it for CAD, SolidWorks 08 and ADT, watching Hulu and DVD.

 

It’s been a long time since I built a system and a lot has changed.

 

I’d like to build something for no more than $400

 

I will be using Win. XP for the OS

 

I have a large LCD & input peripherals.

 

The video may be on board but must support 1680x1050 at a higher refresh rate than 60Hz

 

Also would like it to have at least one PCI Express x16 slot.

 

I find the specifications confusing on these, some seem to come with on board processors? Just not sure what all I need.

I would recommend micro ATX. ITX is smaller and usually has onboard CPU, more geared towards entertainment systems that require low power and heat, i don't think they would meet your requirements for CAD work. Options for going mATX are vast. For production work like CAD or Adobe software i would stick to Intel. In your price range maybe something like a G41(or31)+E3200 would work. Theres a build i did like that a few days ago for a media PC. Check it out here. Only interest to you is the RAM,CPU,Mobo,GPU(maybe), and PSU. Swap the case for an mATX case if you prefer. If budget permits you could upgrade to a higher clocked dual core, however, that one should overclock to at least 3.2ghz on stock cooler. You should also check out some combo deals for the E3200 (or up) CPU, maybe something good with a G4x or G3x mobo is available. Good luck.

I started creating a wish list, what do you think?

I have a CD/DVD drive.  What else do I need?

and is it all compatible?

 

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131324

 http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103716

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811108059

 http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16822136319

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820134218

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835220030

 

total $309

Ya looks fine, should work. So much for taking my advice though :P