SFF build for Grandparents

P

pr1m3

Limp Gawd
Joined
Oct 12, 2006
Messages
134
My grandparents are wanting to get a new computer. And one of their only requirements was for it to be as small as possible. Where they have their computer there isn't much room. They have no need for a computer to hold more than one hard drive, so the ATX format is not going to work or even needed. I have some ideas for a mATX build around the single core AMD 45watt proc. But as I can't find a motherboard I like for AMD in the mITX, I'm going with Intel for my mITX build idea. I'd like to go with mITX, to save them space. And I just haven't had the pleasure in building one yet, so it'd be neat xD They need something for web browsing/e-mail, office, printing/scanning related software, etc. Your typical low power user.

Here's my idea so far.

Case: SILVERSTONE Sugo SG05 $104.99(currently on sale)

Mobo: Intel BOXDG41MJ LGA 775 Intel G41 Mini ITX Intel $79.99

Proc: Intel Celeron 430 Conroe-L 1.8GHz LGA 775 35W Single-Core $39.99

RAM: SUPER TALENT 2GB (2 x 1GB) $43.99

Hard drive: Patriot Warp PE32GS25SSDR 2.5" 32GB SATA II Internal - $115.00 (on sale)

ROM: LITE-ON Slim 8X DVD Burner $39.99

The total comes to $430.93

I have no idea except the egg reviews I've seen on the Intel Proc. I know the single AMD 45watt handles great these kind of tasks. As long as it doens't shutter youtube when my grandpa goes there, that's all that matters xP I also realize they probably don't need the SSD, but I was going for a low wattage computer here. I'll most likely remove that and put a low wattage laptop HDD in it. But I'm so so curious to see an SDD in use in person. And thought it'd help out on the rest of the slow specs on the computer, making windows run fast. And just appear to be a faster computer. But it might be more logically to remove it and with the money saved, used towards other parts. Feedback appriecated ! =D

I might post the AMD mATX build idea in the thread later, maybe after work.
 
FWIW: I can't find any information regarding the controller used in that SSD. If it's either the outdated Samsung controller or the JMicron Junk controller, go with something else, but if it's Indilinix you're good.

You might also want to consider seeing if you can find a bigger SSD. I got my OCZ Agility 60gb for $140 AR, that deal's long dead but I'm sure you could find something close to it. Also, I am going to agree with you that using a SSD as opposed to an HDD is a good idea. Having used one myself, the difference between a relatively slow SSD and a WD VelociRaptor is absolutely huge in terms of windows usability.

Aside from that, have you considered a Nvidia Ion build instead? I don't know how far the price compares, but I'd expect it'd be in the same range and you'd probably get better performance, especially since flash is going to have GPU acceleration very soon.
 
I'll look into the SSD, thanks for the heads up! =D Yeah, I think it'll future proof there system a tad. It'll make them really feel like they have a fast new computer.

This is the best Ion board I've found for the price. I have no idea how it would stack compared to the Intel Celeron 430 discrete solution. I think they're comparable far as the graphics side. But I'm thinking the Intel Celeron 430 is going to be much more noticeable faster then an Atom based system. I know some claim they have good results but, from the Netbook systems with Atoms I've touched, they barely handle youtube. But this is an Ion based one, so might be better.
 
I find it a little odd that you are ready to splurge for a SSD for your grandparents, and at the same time go for a Celeron. I'd rather pick a E5300 or something similar, and buy a regular HDD like a Spinpoint F3 500GB. I know the capacity is probably overkill, but you can't really go wrong with it in a entry-level machine...

My 2 cents.
 
Why not an NF640i board, it's a 775 board with an nvidia 6300 mgpu I think, it's still faster than intel GMA.

Also a Celeron e3200, it's a wolfdale 45nm....and it's a celeron, so it's a quick celeron? maybe :D
 
You aren't getting a GPU...using onboard so why not go with matx and get some better equipment. Get like an SG04 or Rosewill slim case with PSU.
 
G41 is good enough for standard use (apart from gaming obviously). An obvious upgrade would be the Zotac 9300 miniITX board but that would be a lot more expensive. There is also the Zotac 8200 I believe.

As for the Celeron: it might be fast, but I'd say the difference between it and a E5300 or E6300 is quite significant. The upgrade would be money well spent IMHO.
 
They're holding off until Jan now, but thanks for all the advice guys as always.
 
Definitely get an Indilinx SSD. A Celeron: "new snappy computer"? Also, I imagine you've got some fellow grandkids, or young cousins and such, grandparents can get a kick out of installing all those little games that come free with the broadband plan, or D2D type games. My recommendation is to get something with a bit more meat than an Intel Integrated chipset. A Geforce 9500, or AMD 4570 or even an integrated chipset from either vendor will make casual games a lot smoother than the Intel.

My sister runs an AMD HD3300 Integrated chipset that suits her (and her children's) casual gaming needs.

Also, don't get them a 32GB harddrive! Once you get the OS install on and a smattering of other apps they will have zero room for pictures of their grandkids, which their children will be sending them (requested or not).

Generally, you're not maximizing what you can do with the build. I believe you're spending a bit too much on the SSD, case, and keeping it too compact. Open it up just a little bit for a AMD mATX motherboard (they really make tiny cases) and you can get a lot more for your coin.
 
Last edited:
Please explain why you're considering an SSD for your grandparents. Seriously.

I mean, you can't have a "snappy" computer when you're using a Celeron as the processor.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top