Could do with some advice on a new build!

JP01

JP01

JP01

Associate
Joined
30 Dec 2010
Posts
35
Hey guys,

I've been planning a new build around a Sandrybridge 2600k when that launches in a few days time. After doing lots of research online I came across this forums, which seems like the best place to get some help! :cool:

Basically, as this is my first ever build I'm pretty stuck on some aspects! :( I have a few questions which I'd really appreciate some help with.

Firstly, I'm planning on moving most of the parts over from my old computer (suchs as my SSD, HD's,DVS drives, GFX card and my Corsair H50) and putting them together with the 2600k, new Asus motherboard (most likely, might go for the gigabyte) and some new RAM. I have already purchased a NZXT Phantom case in white.

1) I read that for SB you would need Dual Channel DDR3 RAM, so I was thinking of ordering this today to skip the VAT increase. Can anyone recommend me a set? I'm looking to spend roughly between 100-150 on it. I mainly play MMO's so I'm unsure if I should be aiming for a larger amount (over 4GB) or a faster 4GB set. I'll be going for a gaming motherboard so OCing the RAM shouldn't be a problem. I was thinking this set might be quite good?

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MY-292-CS

2) Currently I have a Corsair H50 Watercooler, when I get my new CPU my understanding is that I would need to clean the old thermal paste from the watercooler and apply some new paste. Does anyone have any tips for a good paste to use with the H50 and any tips on cleaning it? I read that you need alcohol and a coffee filter!

3) Regarding a PSU - my current PC was a pre-built one that I have steadily upgraded over the past couple of years. It has a Thermaltake Tougherpower 700W PSU in it that should be fine for my new build, however, from looking in the back of the PSU it seems its "self enclosed" and all of the power cables run through one circular hole. all of the cables with the relevant connectors then seem to be dangling around outside in a zip-tied bunch.

To me, this looks pretty untidy but I suppose I could just move it over then plug in the new stuff. However, most build pictures I saw had most of the leads plugged directly into the back of the PSU, rather than into a bunch of leads outside of the PSU. Do you think it might be worth getting a new PSU? If so are there any you could recommend...as idiot proof as possible would be awesome!!

Thanks a lot for any help you guys can provide :)
 
1) Yup sandy bridge is dual channel, but 8gb is overkill for gaming go with 4GB and spend the money elsewhere? If you find out its not enough just add more in later.
http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MY-203-CS&groupid=701&catid=8&subcat=1517 is a popular choice :)

2) I've never actually removed the thermal compund stuff but one of my mates used some alcohol mixture and cotton buds i think,
http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=TH-000-AC&groupid=701&catid=57&subcat=27 im guessing you use something like that, someone else will be allong shortly to confirm that hopefully.
 
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personally id go with the vengence ram....8gb is overkill for gaming but rams not that dear any more so if its in your budget then get it.....in my opinion mx-4 is the best thermal paste and the best remover of paste is http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=TH-000-AC&groupid=701&catid=57&subcat=27 like greavesy said....dont use anything else this stuff takes every trace of old paste away with very little effort.....

as for psu yours is not modular.....modular psu allow you to plug in the leads you need to power your system and not have any excess cables lying in your system......if your psus over 5 years id think about replaceing it if not id stick with it and get a few more years out of it yet...
 
Awesome - thanks for your help guys. I will order some of the ArctiClean which sounds exactly like what I need!

As for the PSU, I think I'll upgrade to a modular one as my current one has been in heavy use for approx 3 yrs and tbh it does look like the cables take up way too much room inside the case.

Thanks for your help! :)
 
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