New Computer Question

[Ualaa]

As long as you are aware of the extra cost, going pre-built can be an option if you want a warranty or whatever.

My local computer store has a program called IPR.
That stands for Instant Product Replacement.
If the part goes for just about any reason, they replace it immediately.
That is not a repair or RMA process, but a brand new piece.
The same as you had originally, or if that is no longer available then the next piece up in that line.

IPR is not really that expensive, as warranties go.
But as with all insurance, it is not a loss for the company offering it.

[Apps]

As long as you are aware of the extra cost, going pre-built can be an option if you want a warranty or whatever.

My local computer store has a program called IPR.
That stands for Instant Product Replacement.
If the part goes for just about any reason, they replace it immediately.
That is not a repair or RMA process, but a brand new piece.
The same as you had originally, or if that is no longer available then the next piece up in that line.

IPR is not really that expensive, as warranties go.
But as with all insurance, it is not a loss for the company offering it.

Mine is www.intrex.com. Local place I mean.

They have the same replacement policy for custom systems they build for the customer. Unfortunately their build cost, includes the failsafe that if that situation were to happen, they were paid up front for it.... subsequently, if the custom system a customer has them build, DOESNT have any problems,... well, then you paid WAY too much for it.

I.e. $100 Case; $300 MoBo; ~CPU+35% cost, same for RAM etc etc..

For Smithnweson,

I'll share a "potato" I build too. Water cooling was new and all the rage. Course at the time I got myself a fancy STATE of the ART Intel P3-600. (OMG, I know right?) It worked brilliantly for about a week. Then... yup, "if it holds liquid, it'll leak"..

It did.

Everything was ruined. Even the Power supply. It was as you said, a $650 paperweight.

But thats the key. It was $650. Even then. I could afford to replace everything.

Today, I dont have the "creme de la creme" for Gaming computers. (the industry changes so fast, id speculate no one does), but what I started boxing with, was sufficent. 1066 bus, Socket 1155 Mobo; Intel 2.4GHz Dual core; 4GB (800)RAM; GForce 240G video card; 500GB HDD (7200rpm); 50X DVD drive; 650W PwSpply) - Total cost then = $ 612.56 after tax.

I already had the case, (and also already had the DVD drive, and the HDD, but i bought one to put in the closet, as a "just in case")

Since then, I have upgraded each item. Now running 12GB RAM, (3) Video cards, i5 Processor, tons of fans..lol.

Point is, if you are patient, and do your homework. (enlist a friend as Ualaa said), or link EVERY item here. I still feel strongly, you can get a very nice system (minus keyboard, mouse and monitor), for your money.

A lot of these guys that frequently troll the hardware forums are very savy and intelligent.