Computer Build Help for a Computer Engineer/Programmer

akabaka9

Honorable
May 1, 2013
23
0
10,510
This summer I would like to build a computer for the first time. I don't have much experience but here is what I would like:

-fast processor: I will be running programs like Matlab and MultiSim as well as running virtual machines and full system computer simulation(gem5)
-SSD: I would at least like a solid state drive for boot up and for applications. I will probably need an additional HDD for data storage as well
-Descent graphics card: I am not a hardcore gamer but it would be nice to be able to play the newer games smoothly on High settings.
-Motherboard: whatever can run the rest of this and support dual monitors
-2 monitors: don;t have to be top of the line ultra resolution but I would like 2x22" of 2x24" monitors
-Case: good performance and preferably nice looking

As for RAM and Power Supply I have no idea what is necessary and am open to suggestions. My budget is $1200 tops. Any suggestions? Thank for the input!
 

gamerzr

Honorable
Nov 16, 2012
134
0
10,690
PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: AMD FX-8350 4.0GHz 8-Core Processor ($179.99 @ Amazon)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO 82.9 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($29.98 @ Outlet PC)
Motherboard: MSI 990FXA-GD65V2 ATX AM3+ Motherboard ($129.98 @ Outlet PC)
Memory: Corsair 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($94.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Samsung 840 Series 120GB 2.5" Solid State Disk ($89.99 @ NCIX US)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($66.61 @ Outlet PC)
Video Card: Sapphire Radeon HD 7870 XT 2GB Video Card ($238.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Case: BitFenix Shinobi Window ATX Mid Tower Case ($73.06 @ NCIX US)
Power Supply: Corsair CX 500W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V Power Supply ($43.00 @ Newegg)
Monitor: LG EB2242T-BN 22.0" Monitor ($124.99 @ NCIX US)
Monitor: LG EB2242T-BN 22.0" Monitor ($124.99 @ NCIX US)
Total: $1196.57
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-05-01 20:03 EDT-0400)

Wasn't sure if you needed an optical drive or OS.
 
I would use new i5 haswell and the new gig bite ud3 that posted on toms hardware front page. Toss them into next case or corsair r300. The r case there two models one with a window and one without. Video card be min 660-660 ti myself for the mony drop in a 670 or amd 7900 line of cards.
Ssd 840 120g unit as the min.then toss in a 2tb wd hard drive. With haswel CPU you have to look at power supply vendors for units tested to work with haswell low sleep mode.look at 750w unit. If you crossfire or sli your rig look into a larger ps.