New Pc / old parts

[Xeqt]

Hello there....So basically I need a new computer, I have got a Dell Power Edge 1800 that I could use for parts. I am currently looking at computers from Cyberpower and was hoping to save some money using some parts from the dell I currently have in the new system. i.e if the hard drive from the dell is good enough, then ill order the new system without a hard rive. Get my drift? So what I would like to know if possible:

Is this possible to begin with?

Are any of the parts from the dell worth using & are they compatible?

Which system should I look at buying from cyberpower, Intel/AMD?

Quad or Duo core?

Is it worth waiting until the new windows live 7 comes out, or dosen't it really matter?

Should I get a hard drive cooler?

I will be using the computer primarily for gaming. The dell specifications are outlined above, but it has 2x1gig RAM, 500Gig HD & the 3.2Ghz processor I think.

 

Thank you very much in advance for your time.

[Tootech]

What is the Service Tag of your Dell?

 

We can look up its full spec if you post it - thanks.

[Xeqt]

I don't know I'm afraid, I'm currently not at home. I guess that would prove invaluable to your comparison.

[Tootech]

I'm no gamer so I cannot tell you what is best for gaming. High end Intel Core 2 Duo and Quad Core systems are the best performance/price systems at the moment.

 

Using components out of your old system is perhaps a step backwards. For example, your hard drive, if its a SATA drive, it may well be a SATA 1, thats a theoretical 150Mb/s drive, most new drives are SATA II, 300Mb/s. Your old drive will hold back your performance and reliability.

 

I'd buy a full new PC and sell the old one as a working unit.

 

Hopefully others around the forum will be able to advise you on just what you need for gaming.

Edited April 26, 2009 by Tootech

[I4n]

Hi Xeqt

You are in a similar position to myself a couple of months ago, see my post "Upgrade or build" in this section.

I looked into all sorts of options and at each stage realised that most "old" bits just are not worth re-useing as compatabiltlity and technology rushes on ahead of us. I built a new machine for my son which has pretty good spec for whats available at present, and keeping within the realms of financial sanity :)

 

Go ahead and build as Tootech advised then sell your old machine as known working.

 

Good luck and let us know how it goes.