Dial AMD triple-core for affordable performance

Excel Computers’ Master Builders, Sri Indrakanthan K (Senior Technician, left) and Jimmy Su (Systems Product Manager, right).

AMD’s new triple-core Phenom II X3 CPU is actually a quad-core CPU with one core disabled, which makes it about half the cost of normal quad-core CPUs but with performance equal to that of a full quad-core chip for single-threaded applications. We asked the system builders at Excel Computers, to create a value/performance PC based around this CPU. Excel Computers is a Sydney-based system builder which win awards regularly in the pages of various computer magazines for extracting performance from value- priced PCs. (All prices in Aust dollars)
 

CORE SYSTEM

CPU: AMD Phenom II x 3 Triple Core processor - $205
[2.8GHz; Wattage 95W; 6MB cache; Socket AM3]
It’s the disabled core that makes the Phenom II X3 highly affordable, but there’s still three other cores that deliver fantastic performance not just in single-threaded apps, but also in multi-threaded apps, such as high-definition video editing. This CPU easily handles today’s digital entertainment workloads.

COOLER: On-board.

MOTHERBOARD: Gigabyte GA-MA780G-UD3H - $139
Combine the Phenom II X3 CPU with this Gigabyte board’s AMD 780G chipset and you get processing and visual computing performance that users have historically received only in higher-end systems. Based on AMD’s 780G chipset with an ATI Radeon HD 3200 graphics core, Gigabyte’s 780G series motherboards are designed to boost the CPU to deliver great graphics performance.

RAM: Corsair T2X4096-64C5-6400C5 - $78
[2 x 2GB; DDR2 RAM; 240 pin DIMM; Non ECC Buffered; 5-5-5-18]
Corsair memory is more stable and offers a lifetime warranty. In addition, the heat spreader makes the memory more stable with overclocking and high-end gaming.

GRAPHICS CARD: ATI HD 4770 PCI-E 2.0 512MB GDDR5 - $175
The HD 4770 is the best-performing budget card, with new 40nm technology that draws less power and runs cooler than its predecessors. ATI’s Hybrid Graphics Technology can accelerate performance by harnessing the power of both the ATI discrete graphics card and the integrated graphics for outstanding performance and value.

HARD DRIVE: Samsung 1TB HD103UJ - $125
[7,200RPM,;32MB cache]
Its 1TB of storage is good for movies, music and games. Faster data transfer with SATA interface. Improved recording stability, and environmentally friendly with RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive) and Noise Guard feature.

OPTICAL DRIVE: LG GGC-H20 Blu-ray combo burner - $182
LG is one of the top brands. With the Blu-ray combo drive you can get the full HD 1080 experience, thanks to Blu-ray support from the AMD 780G chipset and the AMD Phenom II X3 processor.

WIRELESS CARD: D-Link DWA-G510 - $33
D-Link is a leading maker of networking products, and this wireless card provides security and connectivity that’s compatible with all wireless standards.

CASE: Antec Two Hundred - $85
This is a very good gaming case with a 10-drive bay. Makes it easy to install an ATX motherboard.

POWER SUPPLY: Silverstone 500W ST50F-230W - $85
This very stable and durable power supply comes with a 120mm fan, 2 x Triple SATA connectors, 2 x 6-pin PCI-E connectors and half modular cable.
 

Cost of core system: $1,107

EXTRAS

MONITOR: BenQ E2412 HD 23.6in Widescreen LCD - $315
A perfect full HD 16:9 display with a 40,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio and 1,920 x 1,080 resolution. Comes with HDMI 1.31/D-SUB/DVI-D connections.

KEYBOARD & MOUSE: Logitech Cordless Desktop EX 110 - $67
This keyboard is a very reliable wireless one, with one-touch controls, programmable F keys and spill-resistant design. The mouse comes with a quick-response optical and scroll wheel.

Total cost with extras:  $1,489