Do you like buiding computers yourself?
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A motherboard died in my daughter's computer, and since she does not really need latest and greatest, I bought used motherboard and tried to replace it myself. Surprisingly, it worked, and I even enjoyed it (I've never built PCs from scratch before). So I think I'll try to build my next machine myself. I wonder if this is common among developers. If it is, then you must be doing it just for fun, not to save on it. I tried to calculate how much I would have to pay for components if I build machine myself, and discovered that it would about a price I would pay for a machine from the shop (perhaps I could reuse some older peripherals). Vagif Abilov Win32/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
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A motherboard died in my daughter's computer, and since she does not really need latest and greatest, I bought used motherboard and tried to replace it myself. Surprisingly, it worked, and I even enjoyed it (I've never built PCs from scratch before). So I think I'll try to build my next machine myself. I wonder if this is common among developers. If it is, then you must be doing it just for fun, not to save on it. I tried to calculate how much I would have to pay for components if I build machine myself, and discovered that it would about a price I would pay for a machine from the shop (perhaps I could reuse some older peripherals). Vagif Abilov Win32/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
Hi, Apart from my first comp I always build myself (well, with the help of a friend anyway who's really into that kind of thing). I'm a bit of power freak even though I ain't got very much at all at the minute so I like to choose my own components so I know _excatly_ what I'm getting. > Andrew.
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A motherboard died in my daughter's computer, and since she does not really need latest and greatest, I bought used motherboard and tried to replace it myself. Surprisingly, it worked, and I even enjoyed it (I've never built PCs from scratch before). So I think I'll try to build my next machine myself. I wonder if this is common among developers. If it is, then you must be doing it just for fun, not to save on it. I tried to calculate how much I would have to pay for components if I build machine myself, and discovered that it would about a price I would pay for a machine from the shop (perhaps I could reuse some older peripherals). Vagif Abilov Win32/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
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A motherboard died in my daughter's computer, and since she does not really need latest and greatest, I bought used motherboard and tried to replace it myself. Surprisingly, it worked, and I even enjoyed it (I've never built PCs from scratch before). So I think I'll try to build my next machine myself. I wonder if this is common among developers. If it is, then you must be doing it just for fun, not to save on it. I tried to calculate how much I would have to pay for components if I build machine myself, and discovered that it would about a price I would pay for a machine from the shop (perhaps I could reuse some older peripherals). Vagif Abilov Win32/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
I always make my own computers :) - Anders Money talks, but all mine ever says is "Goodbye!"
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A motherboard died in my daughter's computer, and since she does not really need latest and greatest, I bought used motherboard and tried to replace it myself. Surprisingly, it worked, and I even enjoyed it (I've never built PCs from scratch before). So I think I'll try to build my next machine myself. I wonder if this is common among developers. If it is, then you must be doing it just for fun, not to save on it. I tried to calculate how much I would have to pay for components if I build machine myself, and discovered that it would about a price I would pay for a machine from the shop (perhaps I could reuse some older peripherals). Vagif Abilov Win32/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
I used to enjoy building them myself, but then I got bored after a while. Hardware technology doesn't change as rapidly as software technology does. I'm glad I majored in Computer Science instead of Computer Engineering. Most of the CompE folks will be out of a job in the decade or so after they've finished inventing nano-technology. There's already computers that can design circuits better than humans can, but there's not one that can design software better than humans can, AFAIK. Sorry if there's any CompE folks out there, but it's true ....
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A motherboard died in my daughter's computer, and since she does not really need latest and greatest, I bought used motherboard and tried to replace it myself. Surprisingly, it worked, and I even enjoyed it (I've never built PCs from scratch before). So I think I'll try to build my next machine myself. I wonder if this is common among developers. If it is, then you must be doing it just for fun, not to save on it. I tried to calculate how much I would have to pay for components if I build machine myself, and discovered that it would about a price I would pay for a machine from the shop (perhaps I could reuse some older peripherals). Vagif Abilov Win32/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
I absolutely LOVE building my own machines! The biggest reason for this is that I know EXACTLY what is in there, how it works, and why it's there in the first place. Plus, you can extend the life of your computer by picking parts that you know you can upgrade/replace without having to upgrade/replace the whole computer. And, if you like the big-end stuff, you can put together a PC for much cheaper than you could buy it. For instance, my current PC is a dual-processor machine with a builtin dual-channel SCSI2 LVD controller. I managed to put this PC together (from scratch) for about $2000 two years ago. While that's more expensive than your average pre-built computer, the closest thing Dell had at the time cost well over $4000. And even by today's standards this PC still kicks a decent amount of butt. The great thing about pre-built computers (like Dell or Gateway) is that they come with support options and the like. That's REALLY usefull to people who can't build their own computer, or don't want to fuss with it. -- Russell Morris Georgia Institute of Technology "Hello, I'm doctor stupid. I'm going to take out your liver bones!" - Ralph Wiggum
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A motherboard died in my daughter's computer, and since she does not really need latest and greatest, I bought used motherboard and tried to replace it myself. Surprisingly, it worked, and I even enjoyed it (I've never built PCs from scratch before). So I think I'll try to build my next machine myself. I wonder if this is common among developers. If it is, then you must be doing it just for fun, not to save on it. I tried to calculate how much I would have to pay for components if I build machine myself, and discovered that it would about a price I would pay for a machine from the shop (perhaps I could reuse some older peripherals). Vagif Abilov Win32/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
I do , although I very nearly destroyed my current cpu & motherboard, I was struggling to get the heat sink on my socket370, using a disturbing amount of force when my screwdriver slipped. I luckily missed printed circuits. That's the only risk I can see. Here in oz I reckon I saved hundreds on building it myself. Was that the same brand of all components? Some shops use cheap motherboards etc..
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A motherboard died in my daughter's computer, and since she does not really need latest and greatest, I bought used motherboard and tried to replace it myself. Surprisingly, it worked, and I even enjoyed it (I've never built PCs from scratch before). So I think I'll try to build my next machine myself. I wonder if this is common among developers. If it is, then you must be doing it just for fun, not to save on it. I tried to calculate how much I would have to pay for components if I build machine myself, and discovered that it would about a price I would pay for a machine from the shop (perhaps I could reuse some older peripherals). Vagif Abilov Win32/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
I definetly have to build my own computer. I need to know exactly what is in it and how it functions, and you can build one that is usually not as expensive, but I also build them like cars, buy a part at a time. Currently I have second project going that is a dual processor MOBO and the last component(s) I need are dual pentium 4 1.4GHz chips and I think I'll finally have some power :-) Unfortunetly, you need the OS as well as the software to support such a setup, but it still is fun none the less. Sam C ---- Systems Manager Hospitality Marketing Associates
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A motherboard died in my daughter's computer, and since she does not really need latest and greatest, I bought used motherboard and tried to replace it myself. Surprisingly, it worked, and I even enjoyed it (I've never built PCs from scratch before). So I think I'll try to build my next machine myself. I wonder if this is common among developers. If it is, then you must be doing it just for fun, not to save on it. I tried to calculate how much I would have to pay for components if I build machine myself, and discovered that it would about a price I would pay for a machine from the shop (perhaps I could reuse some older peripherals). Vagif Abilov Win32/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
I build my own computers. That is including my workstation at work and some of the servers that my company has. I cannot stand any pre-build systems. Even when you get expensive pre-builds you get a ton of cheap/slow/unreliable parts, things that you cannot upgrade and so on and so forth. For example, I've opened one of the "high-end" Dells the other day to add a second hard drive and there is no physical place to place a drive in there. :mad: I could not believe it. I've seen pre-build system where manufacturer tried to save money even on the length of the power cable that goes from the power supply to the motherboard. The cable was 2 inch long and could not reach the connecter on the new motherboard I was trying to install. :mad: I have built and repaired computers for a living for about 2 years. I have build and worked on literally hundreds of systems and nothing can even come close to the speed, reliability, upgradability and a pride of having your own custom build computer assembled by your own hands just the way you like it. :-D
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A motherboard died in my daughter's computer, and since she does not really need latest and greatest, I bought used motherboard and tried to replace it myself. Surprisingly, it worked, and I even enjoyed it (I've never built PCs from scratch before). So I think I'll try to build my next machine myself. I wonder if this is common among developers. If it is, then you must be doing it just for fun, not to save on it. I tried to calculate how much I would have to pay for components if I build machine myself, and discovered that it would about a price I would pay for a machine from the shop (perhaps I could reuse some older peripherals). Vagif Abilov Win32/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
Used to. With passion. But I made an exception with my last computer for two reasons: 1. Things are changing, new standards are emerging. Today, every little chip needs a ventilator, some need vent and cooler, etc. Also, although the concept of slots is basically remaining the same (- you plug the card IN -), new standards are emerging and that makes me feel uncomfortable. 2. I needed my new computer urgently, hence, I could not affort to buy two incompatible cards and play with them for days only to realize at the end - that they hate each other. On one of my projects I had to train secretaries to use Windows 95, Office 95 and my software. To overcome the fear of computers with these old ladies, I brought a computer to the first lesson, opened it, took out the cards, explained what VGA is, what sound blaster is, etc. Showed them RAM, hard disk, floppy disk, etc. Then put everything back, switched it on - and it worked. Later, I tried not to think, what would happen to my authority as a teacher - if it didnt. :-) I think this in combination with explanation of Von Neumman's concept of computer and showing them price lists to explain why we NEED secondary storage, etc., had a good impact on those ladies and I recommend it. But it has the side effect. Em, they start calling "the meister" (=you) whenever they have a problem with computer at home. And you have to learn to refuse. Tomaz
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A motherboard died in my daughter's computer, and since she does not really need latest and greatest, I bought used motherboard and tried to replace it myself. Surprisingly, it worked, and I even enjoyed it (I've never built PCs from scratch before). So I think I'll try to build my next machine myself. I wonder if this is common among developers. If it is, then you must be doing it just for fun, not to save on it. I tried to calculate how much I would have to pay for components if I build machine myself, and discovered that it would about a price I would pay for a machine from the shop (perhaps I could reuse some older peripherals). Vagif Abilov Win32/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
I love it - it's not the money saved, it's being able to make decisions about every component, and knowing how to make changes if I want to. My current config: Athlon 700 ( next to change, to dual 1 Gig + Athlon ), 80 gig of HDD, 640 MB RAM, Matrox G400 Dual head, 15 + 17 " monitor, DVD, 12x burner. video capture card. It changes from one pay to the next ;0) Christian #include "std_disclaimer.h" The careful application of terror is also a form of communication. Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines.
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I love it - it's not the money saved, it's being able to make decisions about every component, and knowing how to make changes if I want to. My current config: Athlon 700 ( next to change, to dual 1 Gig + Athlon ), 80 gig of HDD, 640 MB RAM, Matrox G400 Dual head, 15 + 17 " monitor, DVD, 12x burner. video capture card. It changes from one pay to the next ;0) Christian #include "std_disclaimer.h" The careful application of terror is also a form of communication. Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines.
Christian, What about SCSI? I stopped using SCSI disks in my latest machines, because they're much more expensive and probably don't give as much performance boost as they do on service machines. Also, you mentioned Athlon. There is an ongoing discussion about Intel vs. AMD. Some people think Intel is more compatible with some special applications (music recording, advanced graphics etc.) Did you have any compatibility problems with Athlon. Vagif Abilov COM+/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
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Christian, What about SCSI? I stopped using SCSI disks in my latest machines, because they're much more expensive and probably don't give as much performance boost as they do on service machines. Also, you mentioned Athlon. There is an ongoing discussion about Intel vs. AMD. Some people think Intel is more compatible with some special applications (music recording, advanced graphics etc.) Did you have any compatibility problems with Athlon. Vagif Abilov COM+/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
SCSI - we've got a SCSI machine at work, but because of price and my need for big HDD, I've never had one at home. Athlon - I guess some high end software may squeeze some extra performance by doing things in a dodgy way, but I've run Cubase with no problems. My boss and I have a bet on - he has until the end of the year to find a program that crashes on Athlon and not on Intel. I doubt he will manage it. To be honest, I think these rumours come from Intel themselves, it must suck to no longer be the only 'name' brand on the block and to see AMD lead instead of follow. But they started it, by naming their 586 'Pentium'. Christian #include "std_disclaimer.h" The careful application of terror is also a form of communication. Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines.
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SCSI - we've got a SCSI machine at work, but because of price and my need for big HDD, I've never had one at home. Athlon - I guess some high end software may squeeze some extra performance by doing things in a dodgy way, but I've run Cubase with no problems. My boss and I have a bet on - he has until the end of the year to find a program that crashes on Athlon and not on Intel. I doubt he will manage it. To be honest, I think these rumours come from Intel themselves, it must suck to no longer be the only 'name' brand on the block and to see AMD lead instead of follow. But they started it, by naming their 586 'Pentium'. Christian #include "std_disclaimer.h" The careful application of terror is also a form of communication. Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines.
I was thinking about Cubase when I asked the question. So you think it's OK. The information about incompatibilities comes not only from Intel. I remember a few years ago Steinberg on their site listed Intel (and not AMD) as certified processor vendor for Cubase. But I checked Cubase forums recently, and it seems that a lot of people are using AMD CPUs now. I guess I should give it a try next time, not just because of its lower price, but also to heat up the competition ;) Vagif Abilov COM+/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
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I was thinking about Cubase when I asked the question. So you think it's OK. The information about incompatibilities comes not only from Intel. I remember a few years ago Steinberg on their site listed Intel (and not AMD) as certified processor vendor for Cubase. But I checked Cubase forums recently, and it seems that a lot of people are using AMD CPUs now. I guess I should give it a try next time, not just because of its lower price, but also to heat up the competition ;) Vagif Abilov COM+/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
I've got a 1.4 gig Athlon, and Cubase 5 runs just sweet. I also pondered over the Intel/AMD decision for some time before purchasing my pc. I wanted as much power for the lowest price - and for the first time I bought a pre-built pc. There was just no way I could beat the price when buying the parts separately. Cheers, Paul Barrass
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I've got a 1.4 gig Athlon, and Cubase 5 runs just sweet. I also pondered over the Intel/AMD decision for some time before purchasing my pc. I wanted as much power for the lowest price - and for the first time I bought a pre-built pc. There was just no way I could beat the price when buying the parts separately. Cheers, Paul Barrass
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Speaking of Cubase, has anyone here ever downloaded the VST plug-ins SDK and worked on it? Just curious.. -J
Downloaded? Yes. Worked on it? No. ;) It's in my "to do when I get time" list. Cheers. Vagif Abilov COM+/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
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I was thinking about Cubase when I asked the question. So you think it's OK. The information about incompatibilities comes not only from Intel. I remember a few years ago Steinberg on their site listed Intel (and not AMD) as certified processor vendor for Cubase. But I checked Cubase forums recently, and it seems that a lot of people are using AMD CPUs now. I guess I should give it a try next time, not just because of its lower price, but also to heat up the competition ;) Vagif Abilov COM+/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
The thing is people like Cubase make these sort of statements for a lot of reasons that don't necessarily mean AMD won't work. More like they have a close relationship with Intel and when AMD become more visible they play to the people they have the most to gain from. Christian #include "std_disclaimer.h" The careful application of terror is also a form of communication. Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines.
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A motherboard died in my daughter's computer, and since she does not really need latest and greatest, I bought used motherboard and tried to replace it myself. Surprisingly, it worked, and I even enjoyed it (I've never built PCs from scratch before). So I think I'll try to build my next machine myself. I wonder if this is common among developers. If it is, then you must be doing it just for fun, not to save on it. I tried to calculate how much I would have to pay for components if I build machine myself, and discovered that it would about a price I would pay for a machine from the shop (perhaps I could reuse some older peripherals). Vagif Abilov Win32/ATL/MFC Developer Oslo, Norway
There're 3 developers in the company I work for, and many other people doing other stuff. Our PCs (and -as it turned out- our home PCs) are the only ones having no screws on the cases :) I can't say I enjoy building the machines I buy myself, but I always do. As many others have already said, I want to choose all the parts I'll use. Computer stores usually have a few models prebuild, acoording to what they think I want. The last time I went to buy a PC, the salesman asked: "What would you like to do? Play games? Use Office? X? Y? Z?". Here are a few models: The XXX-GAMER model (XXX is the brand) 1. Only 64MB RAM. 2. "Built-in 3D card". Which model? The ad doesn't mention. The word "3D" should be enough I guess. 3. "10GB HD" only. Which model? 4. A 17" monitor I've never heard before. Oh, my eyes... 5. CD-ROM 52x. Yes, those creepy 52x CDROMs that are all over the market. It doesn't matter if they are of a known brand *cough* like creative *cough*, you feel happy if they ever reach 16x and can read most of the CDs you own. My 3+ year old TEAC 32x is a lot faster than all of these drives and reads everything. 6. Build-in sound card. Arghhh! I'M NOT BUYING A PLAYSTATION! I'M BUYING A PC! 7. Joystick. Just that, "joystick". After you get the PC, go buy a real joystick. 8. "Speakers with subwoofer"... Like saying car with airbags, but no mention of what car... 9. "Keyboard" One of those $5 keyboards, I bet my head on it 10. "Mouse" Hmmm... I wonder how many clicks I can do before it breaks. XXX-POWER model: 1. 128MB RAM (only) 2. Crap 17" monitor, CDROM, SoundCard, keyboard, mouse, like the previous model. This model costs 65% more than the GAMER, because it has P4 1.5 instead of Athlon 800, and GeForce 2MX instead of... I don't know what. And it's still a piece of **** Well, you get the point. What I responded to the salesman was "No, no, no; I know exactly what I want." I want the monitor X, even if it costs 100% up, because I'll be using it 25 hours per day. I want the Y keyboard and mouse, even if they cost 500% up, for the same reason. I don't need a joystick; I'll buy one if I need it, and I'll buy the one I want. I need at least 256 RAM. I need 30GB HD because I'm too lazy to delete the .pch files :) . And I want it to be model X, which is UDMA100 at 7200rpm. I don't want a *buggy* built-in graphics card, and I don't want an XXX or YYY they have in stock and would try to sell; I'd be better with my old TNT2. I don't want a build-in sound card, and maybe I don't even want an expensive one