Hello and a newbie Question

Crimefighter · 16 Jun 2008 at 10:24

Hi there, long time reader 1st time poster here!

Ive been "out of the game" of PCs for a while, and Im no longer up with the play on whats good for games and stuff.

Im looking to upgrade my current computer (Core Duo T2100 W/ X1600 and 2GB RAM) so I can play Race Driver Grid and Mass Effect (neither run particularly well on my current system).

I have been perusing this excellent site for information - best UK site I have found!

Anyway I have a lingering question Id like to ask:

- A website I used to buy from back home in NZ had a service where you pick any components out of their supply list and if you paid a nominal fee they would put it together for you from the parts you selected. Does OCUK offer this service?

- Another question, Im considering flagging the whole computer upgrade and getting a nice LCD with PS3 for about the same money....anyone else considered this as an alternative? Seems they would both cost about the same and both have their benefits and disadvantages.

Thanks in advance!

Edit: My budget would be about £700-$850, dont need mouse, keyboard or monitor as I already have these.

Shrapnel · 16 Jun 2008 at 11:03

Hi, I believe OcUK do a 'system builder' service, or ready built systems. The general consensus is that you should wait about 2 weeks before buying any new graphics cards because new ones are out today (nVidia) and next week (ati). Hence the prices will drop.

Never-the-less you will be able to get a good system for £700 consider you don't need a monitor etc. To be fair - you could probably just buy a £150 GFX card and your system will run Mass Effect and RDG fine.

I can't comment on a PS3. It depends what you intend to do on it. It's a bit like comparing a pickup truck to a porsh. They can both carry you and your mate but it depends what else you expect from it.

Crimefighter · 16 Jun 2008 at 11:11

Hi Shrapnel,

Thanks for the reply.

I forgot to mention that my current system is actually a laptop (hp nc8430) plugged into a docking station with external monitor K/B & mouse. I bought it in case I had to travel around with it, but its never left my room in 2 years (lol) so I figure Ill be safe going back to a desktop.

Anyway because its a laptop just upgrading the vid card isnt an option.

I have taken a look at the OCUK System builder, its pretty good, and very close to what I would like, but I have a couple of problems with it:

- Aside from the RAM, it doesnt state what brands are used as components

- In some areas here is a very limited selection of components (eg cases).

- I costed up a system with more and better components (from the OCUK component list), that came out significantly less than a configured system using the builder.

icey_haj · 16 Jun 2008 at 11:13

Crimefighter said:
Hi Shrapnel,

Thanks for the reply.

I forgot to mention that my current system is actually a laptop (hp nc8430) plugged into a docking station with external monitor K/B & mouse. I bought it in case I had to travel around with it, but its never left my room in 2 years (lol) so I figure Ill be safe going back to a desktop.

Anyway because its a laptop just upgrading the vid card isnt an option.

I have taken a look at the OCUK System builder, its pretty good, and very close to what I would like, but I have a couple of problems with it:

- Aside from the RAM, it doesnt state what brands are used as components

- In some areas here is a very limited selection of components (eg cases).

- I costed up a system with more and better components (from the OCUK component list), that came out significantly less than a configured system using the builder.

Yep, its a lot cheaper to choose the parts and build them yourself mate

Crimefighter · 16 Jun 2008 at 11:14

In that case I may have to consider learning how to build a system hehe =)

Ben M · 16 Jun 2008 at 12:11

Crimefighter said:
In that case I may have to consider learning how to build a system hehe =)

You shouldn't have any issues building a system, provided that you have a little patience, a little manual dexterity, and don't mind getting some scars on your hands

That and you do your homework of course.

Crimefighter · 16 Jun 2008 at 12:22

Well I just dont want to stuff it up by shorting something out or incorrectly attaching a heat sink to blow something up. Id like to have an expert look over my shoulder - it is pretty expensive kit after all.