$700 system - seeking upgrade

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dennismv

n00b
Joined
Jun 27, 2005
Messages
38
I have now:

MB Asus - P8H67-M EVO (rev 3.0)
Intel - Core i7 2600k
MEM 4gx2 - Mushkin 996770 ddr3 1333
PSU Corsair - CMPSU-650TX 650w
DVD - Asus - DRW-24B1ST​

Approx. $670 from NewEgg at the time I got it - March 2011.

One problem I have is my display driver seems to be causing occasional crashes in Windows 7, which is unfortunate. I use the built-in video on the motherboard. I don't do gaming, so this suits me fine, except the crashes.

I am now seeking a similar system for similar price, with the goal of it being a reasonable powerhouse for reasonable money. And hopefully without the crashing.

I feel that the system is still reasonably cool. But I know new MB came out, like Z68 chipset, also I'm not sure if I need it. I'm not so sure about other things. With that, would you recommend any changes from my current system, now that it's December 2011?
 
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If you're planning on overclocking, then upgrade the motherbaord to an Intel Z68 motherboard. If you don't have a SSD already, grab the Crucial M4 128GB SSD. RAM is dirt cheap at the moment so upgrade to 16GB of RAM:
$40 - G.Skill Sniper F3-10666CL9D-8GBSR 2 x 4GB DDR3 1333 RAM ($10 off w/ promo code EMCJHKJ27, ends 12/7)

Besides the above, really not much you can upgrade in terms of performance. Maybe a new case if you're not happy with your current case.

However you might want to start RMA'ing the CPU or motherboard as those display driver crashes should not be happening with a known solid motherboard. More than likely you got defective parts.
 
Even though you don't game, I would still suggest getting a discrete GPU. Even a budget model will far outperform the onboard chips, plus you will get separate drivers from the MFGR, which are normally of much higher quality than those from the mobo makers.......
 
thanks

I'm having the same line of thoughts. For my current system I'll probably get a GPU, as otherwisely the system runs fine.

Otherwise, good suggestions! Thanks!
 
I would certainly not suggest a SSD or 16GB of Ram if you are not a gamer. Waste of money for a casual user.

A separate GPU is a great idea though. Even a basic, cheaper style one would make a difference vs the onboard.
 
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