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Recommended specs for windows systems

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by cheris

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Hello everyone, I'm designing/building systems for home users in southwestern Connecticut, and I was wondering how this spec sheet would work out for the average user running Windows 2000/XP. This is the low-end system specs. I was looking for advice on the usability and compatability of these as well as opinions on their performance in the field. Also, any suggestions for vendors would be appreciated.

CPU AMD Duron 1.1 GHz (200MHz DDR FSB)
MB ABIT KX7-333R
Memory Kingston 256MB PC2700 333MHz DDR Memory (Retail)
Harddrive Western Digital Caviar WD200BB 20GB ATA/100 7200RPM
Video Generic SIS 6326 (Compatable) AGP
Network NetGear FA312 10/100 RJ-45
CD-ROM Creative Labs 52X IDE/ATAPI CD-ROM Drive
Modem U.S. Robotics 3094 56K
Sound Creative Labs Ensoniq Sound Card
FDD Sony FD MPF920 (3945) 1.44MB 3.5in Floppy
Case ????????????????

Thanks in advance,
-Steve

5 replies

by still_learning

Hi, As with most things, I am assuming that you are trying to keep the cost of these systems down, but bear in mind that Windows is a bottomless pit and will always use whatever is available. That said, a faster processor, larger harddisk drive and more memory may be options that you should make available to your clients that have requirements for power. Gamers will always want the best video adapter available. You do not list them, so assume standard keyboard and mouse. You may want to offer an optical mouse. You did not mention speakers and I would offer the NIC as an option as most home users do not have a home network or a DSL connection that would take advantage of it. You may want to offer a CD-RW as an option. Now the tough question, what software if any will you install for these users and will you be supporting software? I did not go into specifics as my equipment biases may not be shared by you or anyone else that reads this, but I offer these suggestions and hope this helps.

by cheris

Aye, basically this system would be designed for people at home, grandmas playing solitaire and married fathers downloading porn and trading stocks, etc. Nothing fancy at all.

by thechas

Hi, The primary questions you need to ask, are:
Which version of windows will the client run?
What does the client plan to do with the system?

Unless you are leaving room for a major CPU upgrade, your MB and RAM are overkill. Your Duron CPU will limit the bus speed to 200MHz. Even most Athlon CPUs run no faster than 266MHz FSB.

I would downgrade the RAM to PC2100, and the MB to a 266MHz FSB model.

I also question the video card choice.
I would spec in an ATI or Nvidia based card.Unless, you know for certian that the user has no need for high speed graphics.

As to OS, 256MB is fine for W9X/Me for most users. For W2K/XP however, I would consider going with 512MB or more.

Depending on intended use, the hard drive may bea bit small too. Not to mention, that even 30 and 40GB drives are getting harder to find.

As to a case, 2 concerns, astetics, and power supply.
I don't build any new systems with less than a 300 watt power supply, and use 350 and larger for "power users"
I also try to avoid most "mini" ATX cases as they limit the size of cooling fan for the CPU.

HTH

Chas

by cheris

You're right, the RAM and MB are overkill, and that's what I planned for, I expect to be able to provide a customer with a cost-effective upgrade in 6-8 months or so. Thanks for the help on the memory, I haven't used XP, I didn't know it had that big of a footprint.

Thanks for your help, guys. What I'm really concerned about is any known issues with this combination of hardware. I've heard stories about problems with VIA chipsets and AMD CPU's, just need to know if there are any issues with these parts.

by thechas

Ah, Issues!

I have been building systems with the ABIT KT7 and KR7 motherboards. As long as you install the latest VIA drivers, you should have no problems.

There is a problem with the KT7 and Duron processors. The CPU table in BIOS sets the clock speed wrong, and all manner of strange symtoms show up. Manually setting the FSB and multiplier takes care of the problem.

For XP, there is an issue with some Creative soundcards. Before installing the soundcard, install the XP compatability updates, and have the latest Creative drivers on hand.

A very usefull site for information on the ABIT boards is www.viahardware.com
The people running the site are doing a very good job of providing hints and tips for the ABIT VIA based motherboards.

Best of luck,

Chas

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