dying laptop - build computer?

[Tiger7Moth]

Well, first I would like to mention something that I perhaps should have mentioned initially. That is, "I have been using a Sony 26 inch external monitor with 1920 x 1080 resolution and HDMI interface.". So, I don't need a monitor and if I had a notebook, I wouldn't use the display. Also, my desktop space is limited, so, if I had a desktop which I could place under my desk, that would be a help.

I have joined a forum for Flight Simulator and it has been pointed out that FS X Gold is now about 8 years old - so, top of the line graphics card would be wasted (I have been advised).

I live in Pattaya/Naklua and so, Tukcom is easy to get to and would be better for me if there is a shop there that could help me. I would rather spend a few extra thousand baht than do it myself and screw everything up.

I used to live in BKK and have been to Panthip Plaza many times - so, I could go there if there is a highly recommended shop that could help me.

Well, each of you mentioned building my own. With the above info, I would appreciate any further guidance.

Once last thing, which I will also add to my prior post -

Also, if I were to have one built,what would I have to specify (processor, RAM, ????).

Thanks again for taking the time to help.

[Tiger7Moth]

Oh, I should add, I am sorry I didn't think of the monitor I am using and desktop space when I made my initial post.

[Pinot]

Most good computer shops will build anything you want. I wouldn't get the best processor, you pay a premium. I would max out on RAM (8+), the nVidea video card that is the best deal, at least 500gb hard drive (1000 better), power supply and cases don't make that much difference. You could get a hot (fast) system for under 20k baht. Laptops would be double that for equal specs.

I went in today to PowerBuy looking for additional ram for my laptop. My battery also needed to be replaced, it's four year old. To get to 8 gb of ram it was going to cost me 2000 baht, the new battery was 3k. They had a Lenova laptop they were blowing out for 8300 baht, a little more than half price. It was not an advertised special. I love my new computer.

[lachiplo]

whats your budget? if you could spent 20k above for your rig , you should opt for the new haswell intel chips, as it would be on a new socket, 1150 instead of the older 1155 sockets. you can always specific the processors and parts you need for a diy computer build.

what programmes and application are you intending to run for?

i5 4470 - 6890baht

cheaper mobo if you dont overclock = 3000 baht

gtx650 dddr5 1gb - 4000

or you can upgrade to a better gfx or just using the 4470 integrated 4600hd graphics if you just intend to use it for fs x gold. modern integrated graphics are fairly decent and on a whole different league as the previous integrated ones. even the older 3000 series are significantly bettter

and the rest for rams, hdd, psu, case and os if you dont have any

[55Jay]

I am also an FSX enthusiast since 2007.

There is a lot of information on internet, many arguments about CPU vs. GPU for the old FSX software.

In the provided link, scroll down to the section about hardware recommendations and again, this is just one guy's opinion, of many.

As you well know, you can spend a lot on any hobby and FSX is no exception. If you are a casual flyer, then I wouldn't spend a small fortune but do experiment with the free "tweaks" (Google "FSX tweaks") to maximize the performance of FSX itself, and how it interacts with your GPU; you will also find related tweaks for your video card. I have Nvidea, so use the free "Nvidea Inspector" tool.

If get further into the FSX world, you may end up installing a lot of addons such as weather, high quality scenery and custom aircraft and these draw down more resources. Keep future expansion / upgrades in mind when purchasing or building your computer.

http://kostasfsworld.wordpress.com/fsx-software-and-hardware-guide/comment-page-1/

[Tiger7Moth]

I am also an FSX enthusiast since 2007.

There is a lot of information on internet, many arguments about CPU vs. GPU for the old FSX software.

In the provided link, scroll down to the section about hardware recommendations and again, this is just one guy's opinion, of many.

As you well know, you can spend a lot on any hobby and FSX is no exception. If you are a casual flyer, then I wouldn't spend a small fortune but do experiment with the free "tweaks" (Google "FSX tweaks") to maximize the performance of FSX itself, and how it interacts with your GPU; you will also find related tweaks for your video card. I have Nvidea, so use the free "Nvidea Inspector" tool.

If get further into the FSX world, you may end up installing a lot of addons such as weather, high quality scenery and custom aircraft and these draw down more resources. Keep future expansion / upgrades in mind when purchasing or building your computer.

http://kostasfsworld.wordpress.com/fsx-software-and-hardware-guide/comment-page-1/

Thanks for the info and advise.

[innerspace]

Someone said case and power supply make no difference but thats wrong.

Little difference to performance but massive difference to reliability and lifespan.

Cheap case is 1k including bad powersupply.

Good cases start at 1.5k with no power but with superior cooling, toolless designs and will outlast multiple computer builds.

Good power supplies will give stable and efficient power and save you on electric. A good power supply is essential if you want to build a high performance machine with decent graphics cards and multiple hard drives.

Again they will outlast any freeby included with a case and a bad power supply can risk your pc.

4k will get a decent case and power supply.

2k on an improved cpu cooler is another often overlooked but worthwhile purchase. Heat can kill computers here so proper cooling helps prolong the lifespan in a big way.

4k gets a 128gb samsung 840 pro ssd... so much better than a traditional hdd. Only get a terrabyte if you want to store lots of movies or music. If possible get both a ssd for windows and hdd for storage.

6k from memory gets a low level i5 or high level i3 processor....perfectly good cpu.

4k gets a good mid level motherboard...lots of options. Check reviews for reliabiliy and plan for future expansion and upgrade options.

Or go slightly cheaper ob motherboard and add a graphics card. But for many things onboard graphics is sufficient, even does dual screen now.

3k gets high speed 8gb ram. Totally worthwhile helps in every way and money well spent. Just check it is compatible with your chosen motherboard.

So that is 23k for a very decent pc. Assembled free at whichever shop you purchase the parts from.

Only missing a monitor but they can be found from 3k or 4k for a better size if needed.

Just made a slightly higher spec with dual raid ssd for around 30k and it boots windows 7 in just 6 seconds. Very quick.