ok some really really basic questions....

[MarcwithaC]

ok so i decided that i want to build my first computer and i have a few noob style questions.

first off about cooling, i notice that cooling seems to be a very important and tough part, but if im not planing on overclocking do am i going to find alot of problems if i just use basic computer fans. or is heat always an issue?(i know that this is confusing but im a confused person, just giocve me any tips you got lol)

second im a gamer should i be using amd or p4?

[shawshank62]

First, If your not going to be doing overclocking, the stock hs/f combo will be suffecient cooling for your cpu. It is important to have at least 1 fan sucking in air, and 1 blowing out. I have 4, but it is important ot have good air movement, so like i said, at least 1 in/1 out.

For gaming, you definetly want to get an AMD. Its got a lot more bang for buck. Hell, its got more bang for the buck in everything. Go with AMD, you wont be sorry.

[Idigguns]

My vote is always for AMD. AMD's do run a bit hotter. But if you're not going to overclock, you shouldn't have to worry about it. Stick with the standard heatsink and fan. Use a good AMD approved PSU. Install at least one intake fan (in the bottom front) and one exhaust fan (in the top rear) and see how you like your temp's. If you like your system to be nice and cool, I'd suggest a blowhole in the top of the case and another intake fan and look into an aluminum case.

[sam]

me im a amd fan ,but thats me, and for a stock computer( not OC'ed) i think that the stock hs/f is good .your main consern is case temps so that the stock hs/f will do its job. i like to have 2 fans in and 2 out and if i need better cooling i add a 120mm blow hole on top . just rember a neet case is a happy one, the less things to hinder air flow the better!

[phlatline]

I love AMD, & it's never given me any probs. I'd go w/it.

[MarcwithaC]

thanx alot, well yea as i said i probably wont overclock but who knows what ill fool with so maybe ill put more fans in, but someone above asked if it depends how i like the temp of my computer, i have no preference i just dont want to melt my mobo, i dont actually understand that question, wouldnt everyone want it to be as cool as possible.......hahaha well thanx anyway dont worry give me some time and ill really figure tyhis stuff out,

[cracked]

a little advice: you are prolly thinking, "hmm... the more fans i get the coller it will run!" not true, well not true for my case anyway. i have 4 front intakes, two rear exaust, one side intake, a double fanned psu, and a top blowhole and i only get around average temps. as long as you have your ratio right for the intakes vs. exaust, the number of fans isnt that important. a 1:1 ration is fine. BUT if you want to reduce dust in your case, you want to have high pressure in your case (more intakes than exausts) that way the air inside wants to get out and most of the dust will go with the air instead of the dust having time to settle, most of it is forced out of the case by the higher pressure inside. if that sounds too confusing, dont worry about it. the higher pressure thing isnt critical, it just kinda helps. just keep your intake vs exaust ratio about right and you will be fine

drew