Thanks, some food for thought - notably the case coupled with the MB (liked the pic/hotlinks)
- Not sure you need a 3rd party cooler. I suppose it wouldn't hurt.
Silence and overall low case temps are key for this build for longevity reasons. The last build i did for him has lasted 10 years - and i made it as cool and quiet as possible.
- 400W is all he need for a build like that imo. Unless he plans on adding more stuff. /
I agree, but the ~600W was selected purley for silence (well under 75%) and less stress - the 7+ year timeline being my main concern. But i think i'll be picking the Antec 620 you linked to earlier.
- I don't see him needing a 2500K either, the 2400 should be plenty.
The K was for the Z68 and it would have been clocked via turbo - but i've pretty much discounted the Z boards. And the 2500 was again picked with the 7+ timeline in mind (i know it's overkill now - but it's unlikely to be upgraded for at least 7 years+)
- Nice small aluminium case. ATX or mATX boards. Probably preferrable with mATX given the size.
Thanks, I'll give this some thought - as the case looks quite capable of keeping things cool. But this will be a personal aesthetics choice...
- 23'' Dell goodness. I don't think you'll want to inflict a TN panel on him.
TN was never going to be an option - i use DELLs myself (2209WA).
- Don't like the Caviar Green.
I'm afraid that's a non-mover - as the low voltage, rpm, heat, reliability plus WD's great rma service are a real bonus.
Thanks for the input - the mATX board coupled with the case maybe a goer - depends if he likes the smaller case. Even if he didn't the mATX board would still be a consideration (looking at reviews)...