Need advice on a new system configuration

[UzEEInc]

Hi, I've been reading a lot of articles on this forum but, I still didn't find what I was looking for. Though I am a Computer Engr. myself, its really been a while since I built one.

An important factor to keep in mind is that I live in Pakistan, so every brand isn't available here and prices are usually higher than those in the US.

I would be gaming on the system as well as doing other tasks like software development and graphics. I would be running Windows 7 Ultimate 64-bit and Windows Vista Ultimate 64-bit. I would be overclocking the system.

Total budget is around $600. I am sure about (though I'm open to suggestions here too):

Processor: Intel C2D E8400 (around $180 here)

Hard Drive: Seagate Barracuda 500GB (around $65 here)

but need advice on these components:

Graphics: GeForce 9800 GT 512MB or 1GB (how much difference would be there in actual performance)

Motherboard: P45 based preferably, around $100-$150. I want the best option there is in this price range.

Memory: 4GB, $50-$75. From the research I already did, it seems as DDR3 in totally unnecessary, But I'm still not clear on what DDR2 speed should I get, for maximum performance at a reasonable price.

Power Supply: How much do I really need?

Casing: I guess I can do anything here right?

I've already gone through the *Guide to Choosing Parts* but still can't make up my mind. It would be really nice of you people if you could help me out here.

 

[Helloworld_98]

1) get an amd 720 BE instead of the e8400, you get an extra core so more future proof and you'll want a 7xxx motherboard with that aswell.

2) Get an AMD 4770 instead of the 9800gt, it's more powerful, costs less, and uses less energy.

3) for a PSU you'll get away with a corsair 400 or 450w if you go with my suggestions.

4) for memory, if you go with intel then 800mhz, if you go with amd then 1066mhz.

5) for a case you'll want one which you like the look of but still gives good cooling.

 

[UzEEInc]

Thanks for that suggestion. You really made me reconsider there. But I'll be getting another Core i7 early next year and 720BE and E8400 cost roughly the same here (720 costs more on some retailers).

4770 is 128-bit while 9800GT is 256-bit. Wouldn't a narrower memory bandwidth affect performance?