Hello all, first post from me - hope it's in the right place.

 

I am looking at getting a new computer, moving onwards and upwards from a Dell inspiron dual core. I am looking at an HP Phoenix: http://www.elive.co.nz/hp-hpe-h9-qu298aa-pc-t20816.php (dollars are in NZ currency). This appeals to me because of it's smaller size, most other gaming pcs are alot bigger. I know the basics of pc specs but not the finer details of motherboard, ram etc specifics, also I understand that FSX can't utilise all that ram. Would this be adequate for playing FSX with the odd add on scenery/aircraft with the scenery settings close to max? FSX is not my main focus in choosing a pc, but when I play I would like to enjoy a lovely view with decent frame rates, could anyone please give me some opinions on the HP Phoenix?

This rig is not balanced for either the FSX or the other latest games. FSX is CPU hungry and a good overclockable CPU with a good overclockable motherboard is a must for a decent performance. Nvidia works better than AMD/ATI with fsx because Nvidia still supports old shader 2.0 model whereas ATI/AMD doesn't and FSX is based on Shader 2.0 . The processor on this rig is not overclockable so it's not advisable for fsx.

 

Now coming to applications and games other than FSX. The processor and motherboard for are good enough for games and applications other than FSX. since it's an i7 so it will also help with the applications which can make use of hyperthreading. The main concern here would be the GPU. It's an old tech based GPU and not one of the most powerful GPU even in older generation GPUs of AMD(i.e 6000 series). It's been an year since AMD released its 7000 series which are much more power efficient and much better performers. It makes no sense to go for a 6850 now. A 7850 or a 7870 would have been perfectly fine for games other than FSX. For FSX Nvidia is recommended. A gtx 660Ti, GTX 670 or a GTX 680 will work very well with FSX.

 

I am sorry but since I am not aware of the pricing of PC components in NZ so I can't comment on whether it is priced correctly or not. You are in a better position to judge that.

 

Btw why don't you build your own PC? That is always more economical and you can customize it in a perfect way according to your needs.

 

What exactly will be the primary use of this PC to you? Which applications or games are your priority?

 

Regards,

Rohit

Thank you Rohit for your detailed reply.

 

I have only just recently started to consider a new PC, and the HP Phoenix 'gaming PC' with it's smaller physical size was in my price range. FSX is the only game I play on PC, I don't play everyday so I was not intending to choose a new computer based entirely around it's requirements. When I think about it, anything I buy these days will easily chew through any of my usual daily tasks, so I may as well go for a set up with the components that will achieve a scenic smooth flight experience.

 

I know I could save money by building my own, but apart from some straightforward component upgrades I've done, I don't have the confidence to build an entire system. I will have a look at some local computer stores who do custom builds and see my options there. Could you please give me some advice on which components I should go for? Because of currency differences and the fact that way down here in New Zealand we usually pay a bit more for things than in other countries it is hard to set my budget. I don't want to go over the top and I don't really want to get into overclocking as I don't understand it. If possible could you maybe recommend some best value for money motherboard/chipset/ram/graphics card configuration options?

 

kind regards,

Ben

Here is what I think will suffice:

Processor- i5 3570K

Motherboard- 1) ASUS P8Z77-M Pro 2) Gigabyte Z77 G1 Sniper M3 3) Asrock Z77 Extreme4

RAM- G Skill RipjawsX 2200 MHZ 2x 4Gb = 8 GB total

Optical drive- Whichever one you like.

HDD - If you are going to buy an SSD then buy any 7200 RPM HDD for storage and keep SSD for FSX. If you are not going to buy any SSD then better to look for 1 velociraptor HDD for FSX and 1 normal HDD for storage. Although FSX works perfectly fine on my 7200 RPM HDD but from what I have read, a SSD or a Velociraptor will help FSX. My point here is that a SSD or a Velociraptor is a 'plus' but not a necessity so it's your call.

PSU or SMPS- Seasonic S12ii 620w or Corsair GS600

Cabinet- Corsair Carbide 400r.

GPU- Any custom PCB Nvidia GTX 660Ti 2GB (from companies like MSI, ASUS etc)

CPU cooler- Cooler Master Hyper 212 Evo. It is cheap and will suffice for moderate overclocks.

 

Other components like monitor etc. are completely a matter of personal opinion so get whichever one you like.

 

Don't worry too much about overclocking. It is very easy if you are going for only a moderate overclock like 4.2-4.3 ghz. All you have to do is to type '43' in the multiplier box inside the BIOS and you are done. I don't think you will have to change any other settings for such a modest overclock. Look on youtube and you will get many tutorials on youtube which are very easy to follow. There is nothing too complicated about overclocking anymore unless you are trying insanely high clocks.

 

Regards,

Rohit

Thanks very much for that list - it is really good to know exactly what I am looking for.

 

I've checked some of my local recommended computer stores that do custom builds, and I am currently working out which is the best price for me. I am not in a rush, I'll wait until after Christmas before I make my purchase.

If you don't mind I may call on your knowledge again in the near future regarding the finer details.

 

much appreciated,

Ben

Hi Ben,

 

Free feel to ask and I will try to help you the best I can. Btw 'not rushing' and doing a proper research before building a system is the key to building a great customized rig. Do all the googling and read all the reviews you can about the products that interest you and you might not need any help at all :smile: .

 

Regards,

Rohit