I know there have been other posts on this issue, but I'm teetering on the precipice of upgrading by self-build for the first time. So, is it P4 2.4 + Asus P4PE or Athlon 2400 + A7N8X. I get the impression that cooling is not such a problem with Intel and maybe a novice like me would have less problems and possibly end up with a quieter computer. Any input and advice gratefully received. Cost is a major factor.John

The stock Intel coolers are excellent. I overclocked my P4 and it kept the tempratures down quite nicely.AMD CPUs run a little warmer, so you would probably be wise to spend a little extra money and buy a 3rd party cooler.That being said, the money you spend on the AMD & cooler would probably equate to the price of a P4 2.4.P4 2.4 & P4PE is a very good choice if you're after quiet and stable. Another thing to consider is the cost of the P4PE in comparison to the A7N8X, I believe the AMD board is a little more expensive than the INtel, so that might sway your decision. Either choice will be good for you :)

Thanks for the reply,John

I have a P4PE/L board with an P4 2.53 GHz processor. Under gaming conditions, the cpu temp runs around 46C, and as it just idles or while using simple word processing programs it runs at 37C. I do have a case that has the Intel approved cooling device. Basically it's a vent on the side of the case that has a tube like cylinder attached on the inside. You then extend this tube close to the heat sink fan. When the computer turns on, the heat sink fan is then drawing in relatively cool room air instead of the warm air inside of the case. This board also (like a lot do today) supports variable speed fan rpm's. In other words, the more you stress the system, the more heat the cpu makes, the faster the fans turn to keep things cool. This helps keep things a little more quiet.BTW, building your own system is quite easy. I just put my first together, and it took all of 4 hours and 20 minutes to go from a bunch of boxes to a running pc.Here is a good link to get you started:http://www.mysuperpc.com/computer_assembly...arts_list.shtmlGood luck.Tim13

Dell has a lot of high powered systems in their refurbished line. I've had my refurbished Dell for nearly three years now and never had a problem.