Hello all. I’m about to give you a list of items that you need to build your own music-based computer. These are the very minimum items and range from the mid to low end price range. I assembled this list with the intention on bringing you the most bang for your buck. First, keep in mind that it’s cheaper to buy parts separately rather than buying a machine that is similarly configured as a complete setup. Even if you already have a computer, these items will help you modify your regular computer into a music based computer. Some of the routines such as installing processors, memory and peripherals are nearly the same whether you have a MAC or PC but this directed at PC users. It would also be a good idea to search for websites related to building computers but just remember that some websites can be as misleading as leading. Another good idea would be to check other websites for the cheapest parts, sometimes you can find better deals by doing a little searching.
Case with power supply – Hairong H620 ATX-compatible minitower case - $65
Motherboard - Amptron 810LMR, AMD Athlon XP-compatible - $89
Processor with heat sink and fan – AMD Athlon XP 2100+ - $60
RAM – 256 MB SDRAM module - $30
Hard drive – Maxtor 60 GB, 7200 rpm ATA/133 - $80
CD-RW and floppy drives – Optorite 40/12/40 CD-RW- $49 and SONY floppy - $25
Soundcard--Creative Soundblaster - $15
Operating System - Microsoft Windows XP Pro
Tools – handheld Phillips and Flathead screwdrivers.
The parts don't have to be the exact same as I have listed, these are just for reference. All components will snap easily in place and require very little technical skills. This total installation should not take more than a couple of hours. Just follow the installation instructions provided with each component and you will be on your way to building your music-based computer. Always keep safety in mind and never work on your equipment while it’s plugged into an AC outlet. If you have any doubts, consult a technician. Safety is your responsibility. Also, make sure that you work in a static free environment. Static can destroy your memory, your processor and your RAM. Just to be safe, touch a doorknob or filing cabinet periodically to discharge yourself from any static build up. Good luck and have fun building your dream machine at a budget price.
--dac
Case with power supply – Hairong H620 ATX-compatible minitower case - $65
Motherboard - Amptron 810LMR, AMD Athlon XP-compatible - $89
Processor with heat sink and fan – AMD Athlon XP 2100+ - $60
RAM – 256 MB SDRAM module - $30
Hard drive – Maxtor 60 GB, 7200 rpm ATA/133 - $80
CD-RW and floppy drives – Optorite 40/12/40 CD-RW- $49 and SONY floppy - $25
Soundcard--Creative Soundblaster - $15
Operating System - Microsoft Windows XP Pro
Tools – handheld Phillips and Flathead screwdrivers.
The parts don't have to be the exact same as I have listed, these are just for reference. All components will snap easily in place and require very little technical skills. This total installation should not take more than a couple of hours. Just follow the installation instructions provided with each component and you will be on your way to building your music-based computer. Always keep safety in mind and never work on your equipment while it’s plugged into an AC outlet. If you have any doubts, consult a technician. Safety is your responsibility. Also, make sure that you work in a static free environment. Static can destroy your memory, your processor and your RAM. Just to be safe, touch a doorknob or filing cabinet periodically to discharge yourself from any static build up. Good luck and have fun building your dream machine at a budget price.
--dac
