A Nub's Guide to General Tech
Maple story Forums : Non-MS Tech Talk : Computer and tech issues NOT related to Maple Story Thread starter
READ BEFORE PURCHASE! MOST IMPORTANT THING! These items are based on opinion. They have been checked with some of my friends as well. Before posting, this is checked by AT LEAST one other person. Even though this is the case, WE ARE NOT PROFESSIONALS. Please, before purchase, check for compatibility with your existing parts. I will not be held responsible if you buy something and it does not work with your computer. READ BEFORE PMING If you PM me, I will read your message. If I do not respond, it is because I did not understand you (GRAMMAR) or because I don't think that what you are saying is relevant :/ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Alright. I noticed that many people always inquire about ram, graphics cards, etc. Below is a list showing three examples of various hardware. It will show recommendations for for cheap, mid-price and expensive hardware. If I find some, I will post links to installation guides. CONTENTS • Motherboards • Graphics cards • Hard drives • RAM • Processors • AMD Processors • Monitors • Software • Photo-Editing • Video Editing • Antivirus • Anti Spyware • Programming Languages • Music Related • Installation and relevant links as well as miscellaneous information LEGEND: • Cheap • • Mid-price range • • • Expensive MOTHERBOARDS Motherboards are something like the brain of your computer. All parts are attached to the motherboard. Before purchasing ANYTHING, check for motherboard compatibility. You should not really purchase a new motherboard unless you are building a computer from scratch. • ATI hybrid graphics technology & mainstream DX10 gaming- $80.00 • • Intel BOXDG35EC LGA 775 Intel G35 Micro ATX Intel Motherboard- $95.00 • • • GIGABYTE GA-EP35C-DS3R LGA 775 Intel P35 ATX Dynamic Energy Saver Ultra Durable II Intel Motherboard- $140.00 GRAPHICS CARDS A graphic card is component of a computer that improves the visual quality of the machine. The two main types are PCI and PCI-Express. Integrated graphics, is probably the worst type of card. It is integrated into the motherboard and has bad visual quality. It also does not allow for the running of many games (Ex: Magiboni). However, this does not mean you won't be able any games and just because you have non-integrated graphics does not mean you will run all games. All in all, more bitrate means better performance: xxlowongxx said: "A techy person could tell why a video card is worth it or not, a big deal is the bitrate. My video card runs at 128 bits a time, that is 2ce as fast as the external video card that you have listed, and mine is onboard. Lots of people would say, wow onboard video cards suck! But not all onboard video cards these days are 64MB @ 32bit." (Example Why to upgrade: upgrading your graphics card will allow for better quality of picture and might allow for playing more games (assuming your current card is quite bad.) • EVGA: GeForce 7300GS 256MB-$45 • • XFX: 8500GT 256MB-$68 • • • XFX: 8800GTX Extreme 768MB-$390 Chickenz said: "In the graphics card section you should mention that 8600GTS cards and up require a 6-pin connector to supply moar power. :0 ..." Dweomer said: "As a note, when I was buying my laptop last August the sales rep was very, very clear to never buy any graphics card made by Intel." HARD DRIVES Note: Based on size A hard drive is the component of a computer that allows for the storage of files. Without a hard drive you cannot download files and save files. A 250GB hard drive should be enough for a personal use computer. An internal hard drive requires installation to the PC's interior while an exterior can usually be attached through a USB port. Why to upgrade: If you have enough space for your files there is no reason to buy a bigger hard drive. However, if you are running out of space (10GB or less), I recommend deleting useless files, limiting your downloading/file creation or upgrading your hard drive. • Seagate Barracuda 250GB-$65 • • HITACHI 250GB-$95 • • • Maxtor (external) 750GB-$170 RAM RAM generally allows increase in computer performance. RAM stands for Random Access Memory and most games require at least 1GB. If more RAM is obtained, you will be able to run more applications simultaneously without a decrease in computer speed. PCs have four slots for RAM, which comes in the form of a stick link .Each stick can hold 1GB, allowing for a total of 4GB of Random Access Memory. Why to upgrade: upgrading your RAM to at least 2GB may increase your computer's performance a noticeable amount. It should also allow for the running of multiple applications without a decrease in your computer's performance. • DDR2 RAM-- 50$ • Very good deal IMO. $60 off--$70 (DDR2) INTEL PROCESSORS NOTE: I don't know too much about these. iMicrosoft said: "And for processor make sure its compatible with your motherboard" A processor (also called a CPU) essentially controls everything your computer does. The higher the GHZ (gigahertz), the faster data is processed, the better the performance. There are three types of processors currently on the market: • Single core • Duo core • Quad core Why to upgrade: Upgrading your processor will increase your computer's performance. Personally, I think that 2GHZ Duo core is enough. N0dleBandit said: "... The application uses all cores to lay out it's work on the 4 cores so there's less stress on 1 core.. You can't just buy any processor without knowing if your motherboard fits the process size like that processor is based on the 45nm process which only work on newer motherboards and only on Socket 775. If you don't know the difference between Core 2 Extreme and Core 2 Quad don't get it. If you don't play hardcore games, overclock, do DivX encodes, Photoshop etc don't get a Quad. And people who play Maple don't need a 8800 or even a dual core since Maple will only be using 1 core of the CPU then." • If your a cheapskate-$60 • Decent, 2.33GHZ DUO-$170 • • Quad core: 2.4GHZ-$244 • • • • Quad: 3.2GHZ-about $1500 AMD PROCESSORS tacocrusher said: "AMD Processors: -Cheap -Used to overheat in the past; newer cpu models come w/ liquid cooling so they stay cool; can't overclock above like 3.5% without a crapload of fan noise -The speed compared to a similar intel one is unnoticable -Use it if you're on a budget -Cheapskate 2.2 GHz one: link (adequate; one core) [$40] -Very good 2.8 GHz one: link (decent; two cores) [$163] -Very good 2.5 GHz one: link (good; four cores) [$235] -t3h uber smecks 3.2 GHz one: link (good; two cores) [163] I basically just copied what you wrote :p" Why to upgrade: Upgrading your processor will increase your computer's performance. Personally, I think that 2GHZ Duo core is enough. MONITORS The monitor is the screen of you computer. Everything that you do on your computer is seen in the monitor. Upgrading this component will result in better visual quality. Or maybe you will just get a bigger screen :D • Acer AL2016WBbd Black 20" 5ms Widescreen LCD Monitor- $200.00 • • BenQ T241W Black 24" 5ms HDMI Widescreen LCD Monitor with Height and Pivot Adjustments- $340.00 • • • Hanns·G HG-281DPB Black 28" 3ms Widescreen LCD HDMI Monitor- $490.00 ________________________________________________________________________________________________ K. Also, please note: do not buy these right away. Make sure that they are right for you and if your upgrading, that your computer is compatible with them. Any input or recommendations welcome. Also, if I made any mistakes please state them and they will be corrected. MY SHAMEFUL COMPUTER • My 1GB of ram • • Graphics card-XFX: 8500GT 256MB Same as mentioned 'cept 512MB • Can't find my processor. 2.8GHZ Duo • Hard drive 230GB SOFTWARE GUIDE Section created: August 7th, 2008: 19.26 BT I have noticed that since my time on Basil there were threads concerning things such as antivirus, photo-editing and other software. This guide will list some software useful in many fields. I will rate this as follows: • Simplest uses • • Intermediate • • • (Semi) Professional *My choice CONTENTS • Photo-Editing • Video Editing • Antivirus • Anti Spyware • Programming Languages • Music Related Photo-Editing Software This is probably the most questioned type of software. What is it? It allows for the manipulation of pictures; you can colour, draw, and combine pictures to look realistic. This software can be used in things such as comic making. • MS Paint Microsoft Paint should come pre-installed on Windows machines. If you do not have it you should look around. I was unable to find a reliable link for this software. This software is the simplest photo editing program. It does not have many professional uses but can be used for things such as comics. It contains simple functions such as filling in areas, making shapes, and drawing. A Screenshot of the MSPaint interface • • PaintNET This software is similar to Photoshop. It allows for a semi-professional manipulation of pictures and has more advanced features such as layers and layer effects. Interface: link • • • [http://www.adobe.com/products/photoshop/photoshop/]Photoshop CS3: Link to trial; Cost: $649.00[/url]* A very good program used even by professionals. It is very expensive so you shouldn't get it unless you need or unless you can find it cheaper (ie, older versions or eBay.) This program allows for extremely good photo editing as mentioned and can even be used to create pictures that look real but are not. Features include the basic stuff (pencil, brush, etc) but also advanced use of layers and layer effects. Interface Other related applications: Maplesim : Banned Story for creating comic characters Apophysis Allows for creation of interesting and often abstract images Terragen 2 : A scenery creator. Not free. Video Editing Video editing software allows for the manipulation of videos. You can combine video clips, make cartoons (if you're really good) and add effects to movies (black and white, fast forward). I personally do not do much video editing. • Windows Movie Maker* A simple editor that allows for combination of clips and some video effects. Audio is also supported. Screen: link • • • A variety of products with different prices. Choose what suits you A more advanced editing software. I never personally used it but it is recommended by many. Screen: link • heyitsmexD: You could add DivX Author to video editing. link[/quote] Antivirus Antivirus offers protection against harmful programs. More than one can mess up your machine. If anti-spyware is not included, please refer to the next section. • Avast! Home edition. Free for non-commercial uses Wikipedia said: " * Standard Shield — Real-time protection * Anti-rootkit — Built-in protection * Anti-spyware — Built-in protection * IM shield — Instant Messenger protection * P2P shield — P2P protection * Internet Mail — E-mail protection * Outlook/Exchange — Microsoft Outlook/Exchange protection * Web Shield — HTTP protection (localtransparent proxy) * Script blocker — script checker (Pro version only) * Network Shield — basic protection against well-known network worms. Acts as a lightweight Intrusion Detection System * Audible alarms — vocal warnings such as "Caution, a virus has been detected!" * Boot-time scan — through the program interface, a user can schedule a boot-time scan to remove viruses that load during Windows startup and are therefore difficult to remove. A very important feature especially for viruses written to shut-down the virus protection as soon as Windows starts. * Self-Protection — Prevents malware from terminating Avast! processes and damaging Avast! files. * Skinnable — Program is skinnable GUI. * Virus definition updates — Avast updates its virus definitions on a regular basis (sometimes multiple times a day), and this process is automated by default. * The virus chest is quarantine folder where "infected files" can be stored. The chest causes the files' usage to be disabled and is meant to prevent them from causing any harm. The virus chest also stores vital system files to prevent them from virus damage. They still can be run, but the access to the file by any source or other program is blocked until it is removed from the chest. Registration (Home Edition) Avast! needs to be registered after the first 60 days of use. After registering, a license key is e-mailed and can be used for only one year. After one year, the user is required to re-register. Despite registration, the program is still free for home use." • AVG Free Edition Wikipedia said: "Less protection - AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 8.0 provides only base level protection against viruses, spyware and safe searching. It does not provide safe surfing (drive-by download protection) nor protection from hackers, keyloggers, spam, phishing attacks and malicious file downloads that can come through instant messaging and attachments from seemingly friendly sources. This protection is only available in the commercial versions of AVG products." • Bitdeffender trial download. Choose the one most beneficial to you.* Product features/comparisons • Malwarebytes: Epic for infection removal • Kaspersky Antivirus Antivirus list and comparisons Comparisson between three free AVs Anti-Spyware This software protects against malicious software that is used to steal personal information (keyloggers, etc.) Having multiple anti spyware will not mess up your computer. This software can be used if you want to feel safer or if your antivirus lacks it. NOTE: I do not use anti spyware • Ad Aware; Free + paid versions. Recommended by many • Spyware Doctor • Drive Sentry Wikipedia said: "# PC Tools's Spyware Doctor ( one free edition doesn't remove anything but protects, the other free edition removes but protects partially and uses a limited database) # DriveSentry (free version (3.1) will remove spyware)" Wikipedia said: "...real-time protection and anti-virus protection are not included with this version. Real-time protection and other advanced features are available in the paid versions of Ad-Aware 2008." PC MAG: Antivrus/Spyware Reviews For Building Programs This software is used for the creation of Windows programs. I will post guides later on. Windows/Microsoft Programming languages: link • Visual Basic 2008 Productivity that is ideal for first time or casual Windows programming. • Visual C# A great combination of power and productivity for the Windows developer. • Visual C++ Horsepower with a finer degree of control than other Express Editions. Music Management WILL WRITE LATER Installation and Relevant Links as well as Miscellaneous Information (FROM HERE UNTIL THE BOTTOM) Installation Guides: • The Crucial Memory Advisor� tool is a quick, 3-step process to find guaranteed-compatible memory for computers and motherboards. • Breif graphics card installation • Video: How to install a graphics card • Processor installation • Processor video • RAM installation • RAM video • Hard Drive installation • Hard drive vid CHECKING YOUR CURRENT PARTS • Download and install PC Wizard • Or CPU-Z. I think that the prior is better, however. OTHER LINKS • Computer security and resources • MS problems + solutions • Can this PC run MS? • Kid24's tech stuff. • JPNgamer's IRC guide • Look like vista • Computer Jargon Glossary EXPLANATIONS Graphics card: Changes how stuff (videos, pics, GAMES) look on your computer. Some games require an actual graphics card, not integrated. Ram: GENERALLY improves computer speed, and decreases lag, allowing for use of several apps at once without slowing down your PC. Hard Drive: Allows for for storage of files. More space means more things can be saved on your computer. Processor:Essentially controls everything your computer does. More GHZ means it can process data at a quicker pace, increasing performance. WHERE TO BUY COMPUTER PARTS link Newegg link PC world ( recommended by maplesoul2) link Tiger direct (recommended by lilvboy) link (recommended by lonesoldier1 for Canadians) CHEAP COMPUTER Other Info Cheap Computer: tacocrusher said: "MB (Gigabit lan, sound, video [dx10]): link (I got it on a sale before; now $70) Processor (2 cores, 2.8GHz, 2MB Cache): link ($122) HDD (160gb, 7200rpm): link ($45) Power (Atx, 480w): link ($13) Case: link ($24) Edited: Forgot to put cd/os CD (sata, cdrom): link ($14) OS (XP Pro OEM): link ($140) Total: $427... you might want to upgrade the hard disk and cd drives This is all from one site, but you can probably get it cheaper if you search multiple sites. And this is pretty good if you have a tight budget ($427)." ultracheese said: "You should add a link to the Free Software Directory up there. It has a lot of great alternatives to the software you listed and they're all free and open source. Some of them don't have Windows versions though." All input/comments will be considered/appreciated. EDIT: Many thanks for the sticky mrbasil and Nigi for the title change  Last edit: September 29th 2008 at 18:24BT: Added links I will allow the distribution of this thread as long as credit is given.
Replies
Kazum said: "But its not that much difference, is it?" "The effects of using 4GB of RAM can be clearly seen in our results. With 4GB installed the average frame rate in Company of Heroes: Opposing Fronts increased by 21% and the minimum frame rate rose by an incredible 460%. Similarly, with 4GB installed the minimum frame rate in Crysis rose by 46%, making the game run much more smoothly and enjoyably. Game loading times were also significantly enhanced by installing 4GB of RAM; a game of Company of Heroes: Opposing Fronts loaded 75% faster with 4GB installed compared to 2GB. In addition, using 4GB of memory also provides secondary benefits such as increased multi-tasking flexibility. Switching between a game and a forum window in order to make a post is more than 11 times faster with 4GB than with 2GB." powerfulmen said: " "The effects of using 4GB of RAM can be clearly seen in our results. With 4GB installed the average frame rate in Company of Heroes: Opposing Fronts increased by 21% and the minimum frame rate rose by an incredible 460%. Similarly, with 4GB installed the minimum frame rate in Crysis rose by 46%, making the game run much more smoothly and enjoyably. Game loading times were also significantly enhanced by installing 4GB of RAM; a game of Company of Heroes: Opposing Fronts loaded 75% faster with 4GB installed compared to 2GB. In addition, using 4GB of memory also provides secondary benefits such as increased multi-tasking flexibility. Switching between a game and a forum window in order to make a post is more than 11 times faster with 4GB than with 2GB."" soic. Kthx.
but running 4gigs ram on 32bit os wont utilize all of its speeds
Kid24 said: "but running 4gigs ram on 32bit os wont utilize all of its speeds" That benchmark was tested on a vista x64 powerfulmen said: " Actually, having more RAM does make a reasonable amount of difference in performance. Corsair, a well known RAM manufacturer did an analysis of 2GB vs 4GB and they have concluded that 4GB of RAM was performing better than 2GB; though usage of 2GB was never peaked. Heres the link: link" I am willing to bet that this is just a marketing trick to sell more RAM. :P Because it makes no sense technically. ali4z said: " I am willing to bet that this is just a marketing trick to sell more RAM. :P Because it makes no sense technically." I thought of that... but why would a large RAM company lie? powerfulmen said: " I thought of that... but why would a large RAM company lie?" Maybe it's true for their RAM and they just make it seem like that for RAM in general. :P ali4z said: " Maybe it's true for their RAM and they just make it seem like that for RAM in general. :P" You wont see a difference between Corsair RAM and another branded- RAM if they have the same speed and same timings. powerfulmen said: " You wont see a difference between Corsair RAM and another branded- RAM if they have the same speed and same timings." How do you know? Maybe different kind of brands have different structures than other brands... But I'm not sure. xxlowongxx said: " How do you know? Maybe different kind of brands have different structures than other brands... But I'm not sure." Technically, they are the same (DDR2 and DDR2) If they have different structures, then its usually DDR, DDR3, SDRAM, etc.
Then how come some RAM chips become warmer than the other? They have the same timings and speed and such.
Currently my computer is running on a SiS 661 FX Graphics card. I want to upgrade it to this GeForce 5200FX to make WoW run a little more smoothly. Could you tell me how much the GC is worth and if there is even a point upgrading it?
New Blog: Newbie here!
IIrockyII said: "Currently my computer is running on a SiS 661 FX Graphics card. I want to upgrade it to this GeForce 5200FX to make WoW run a little more smoothly. Could you tell me how much the GC is worth and if there is even a point upgrading it?" If I where you, I'd buy a whole new MOBO with an integrated card Geforce 6100 @ 128bit. works fine too. powerfulmen said: " Technically, they are the same (DDR2 and DDR2) If they have different structures, then its usually DDR, DDR3, SDRAM, etc." They are standards (or rather groups of standards(IE: DDR2-400,DDR2-667,DDR2-800...), aka technologies), and everyone that have a little experience with the computer industry know that products, on a technical level, usually go deeper than standards (both hardware and software). |
