a friend needs help with getting new computer

Discussions about anything Computer Hardware Related. Overclocking, underclocking and talk about the latest or even the oldest technology. PCA Reviews feedback
Post Reply
VooDoo
Golden Member
Posts: 1553
Joined: Sat May 04, 2002 6:31 pm
Location: earth
Contact:

a friend needs help with getting new computer

Post by VooDoo »

Hey, everyone! This e-mail is directed to those of you who download fansubs.

I've been without a home computer for a while, and I started investigating used and new options; I'm asking for your help in identifying what the absolute minimum requirements are that would enable me to download and burn CDs of anime. Forgive my ignorance about the basics and please correct any mistakes I might make about the specs.

So, here are some specific questions/topics for discussion I have:

--What is the minimum processor/processing speed I should get? The new computers all automatically come with Pentium IV or the Celeron; I understand that if I want to be able to download and do other things at the same time, I should _not_ get a computer with the Celeron because it doesn't multi-task -- is this correct? And if I don't get a new computer, would a Pentium III be OK? Are there other equivalents that I should know of? What MHz or GHz would you say would be the minimum, and what would be pretty good?

--What is the minimum memory I should get? I was told that 256MB is adequate, but might lock up. Can I go lower?

--Obviously, I would need a CD drive...does that automatically mean that I can copy files/episodes, or does it definitely have to say CD-RW (which I'm guessing is "CD-readable/writable")? And is it required that I get a DVD-capable drive, too, or is that just a perk to be able to play DVDs?

--Is Windows Media Player capable of not only playing but also copying files to a CD drive, or is there some other application that I need to be sure is on there (or is copying a function that is basic to any Windows operating system, as long as the drive capability is there)?

--On a side note, how much hard drive space should I be sure I have if I wanted to install a database program, like Access (or some kind of "office suite" that includes a database)?

--Do you know how much it would cost to "make" a computer wireless, if it only comes with a modem? I know that there are routers that you can buy for $100 or less that you can use for your internet connection -- when you have "DSL" as opposed to dial-up service -- that enable you to connect to the internet anywhere within a certain square-footage (and won't tie up the phone line). But that would mean that the computer itself has to be able to connect that way, also.


thanx, all

me
guess i need a new one...
User avatar
smb
Almighty Member
Posts: 2156
Joined: Wed Nov 22, 2000 9:27 am
Location: devils arm pit, McAllen, TX

Post by smb »

I will try to answer your questions. This is just my .02 cents and may not add up to .01 when I'm finished.

1. I would recommend a P4 or AMD. Stay away from the Celeron based systems. I would recommend you get whatever your pocketbook can afford. AMD's are cheaper, and in most respects more pwerful than their P4 counterparts.

2. Get at least 512megs of ram minimum, and if you can afford it, get 1 gig. too much memory never hurt anyone.

3. A Dual format DVD Recorder would be your best bet. Some deals can be had for well under $100.00.

4. Get yourself Nero or Adaptec writing software. It's has alot more features than anything plain old XP could do for you.

5. 80g + hard drive with 8 megs of cache would really help with a SQL database or any database, or the 36g 10,000 rpm SATA Raptor. ( You really want quick drive access if your going to run a database app)

6. You can get a pretty good router and a wireless PCI adapter both for about $125.00.

Again, this is just my opinion, and I'm sure there are probably better ideas out there.
buddhazen
Senior Member
Posts: 265
Joined: Mon Sep 15, 2003 10:56 am

Post by buddhazen »

Woot for anime

in fact this is very similar to my download box i savaged from refurbs
i would scour neweggs refurbs


abit nf7-s refurb or a7n8x refurb= 59
barton retail= 80
80 gig wd se drive= 67
512 geil golden dragon= 77
dvd/cdrw combo drive= 50
i personally would get the 214 dollar 9800 pro but u could always get the 9600 xt for 3/4 of the 9800 price
soem cheapo raidmax case= 40

decent box for around 5-600
Post Reply