Cheap build for my mum

Hardware Hub Build a PC
1

I was visiting my parents last week and notice that my mum is still using a Pentium 4 that we had back in 2002. She only uses it occasionally, but also tends to keep important files stored on it. Browsing the internet can often crash the computer. The way it whines and sounds like it's about to explode is scary even.

So I decided to use some spare parts I have and buy a few cheap ones to make her something reliable that she can actually use. And play Pharaoh.

Case: Silverstone RL01 (already had this)

PSU: Seasonic G 360W ($89)

CPU: A6-5400k ($75)

Mainboard: Asrock FM2A75-M ($82)

HDD: Seagate Barracuda 500gb (already had it)

Network Adapter: TPLink High Gain USB adapter (already had it)

Memory: GSkill Ripjaws 2x2gb 1333mhz ($29)

Cooler: Coolermaster Hyper T3 Evo ($24) - I feel aftermarket coolers are essential on AMD CPUs due to the ridiculously loud noise of the stock coolers, and the fact that my parents house is often 30 - 45 degrees celsius during summer.

 

I'm wondering a couple things:

1. The 360w PSU is enough power for this? I'm certain it is, but it never hurts to ask.

2. If I give her some indie adventure games from GOG, the point-and-click style that appear graphically less intensive such as Primordia, Blackwell Bundle, Don't Starve, etc. These would work fine on the A6, right?

 

Thanks

2

would you consider getting her a pc tablet?

it's fanless and therefore stellar

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=9SIA2NT0UT8802

1. prolly it's fine

2. an a6 will likely swallow those games. Not sure though don't own em.

3

whats the budget and do you live in the US or Canada?

4

I would add higher speed RAM, anything above 1333 ATLEAST.  And maybe you should add an SSD just for the sake of it

5

nothing cheaper than the refurbished systems on newegg.

6

In Australia. These are the prices available to me and there is not really any other option aside from not buying any parts.

I don't have a budget as I just had some parts, saw the state of my mum's computer and decided I can throw something together to replace an 11 year old piece of junk. (This would also help clear this stuff out of my small 1 bedroom apartment).

But the total I would be spending on the above build is $300. Alternatively I can find some refurbished Core 2 Duo PCs (ex-office PCs) for $175 each.

Also, upping the ram to 1600mhz would cost about $50, and adding an SSD would cost $120. I'd rather not spend $500 for what is essentially a free-time project for me. Actually it looks like the cheaper ram is no longer available and I might have to get the 1600mhz for $50 anyway.

I have bought her 2 tablet PCs in the past, which now reside in the drawer collecting dust because she thinks touchscreens are horrible. My 3 year old nephew plays with them sometimes.

7

you *should* be able to snag some 1866 ram that's as expensive or just a few bucks more than 1600