SnakEyez
02-27-2004, 11:13 PM
Well like the topic title says I am building a computer for the first time I need a little help. The problem is a common one known as Windows.
Ok here is my dilemma. When I was looking around at buying my processor (haven't bought it yet but going to get Athlon XP 2600+ and Abit NF7-S motherboard)...well anyways, I came upon different versions of Windows. There was the normal outrageously priced one, the academicly priced one (which unfortunately only covers an upgrade to Windows XP Pro), and an OEM version. Currently on my old system (p2 450 mhz) I am still running Windows 2000, however I seemed to have unfortunately misplaced my disc, but I think I remember where I might have a copy;) . So my question is about the OEM version. I read somewhere that if you ever upgrade the hardware (processor/motherboard) you can't upgrade XP Pro. Does that mean with an OEM version you wouldn't be able to upgrade it to Longhorn? Also would you recommend that I get the Academic upgrade to Windows XP Pro or just the full OEM version? It's not too much of a price difference to worry about but I am not sure what I should do since this is my first time. And if you can please explain kinda in depth the differences and what it means for a OS to be an OEM because I was told not to buy OEM hardware since, for instance, with processors you don't get the heatsink and fan normally included in the retail version.
Finally, can anyone suggest a good case with a power supply and decent cooling system and where to buy it (looking for one under $100)? This is the only piece of hardware which I am still not sure what to go with.
Ok here is my dilemma. When I was looking around at buying my processor (haven't bought it yet but going to get Athlon XP 2600+ and Abit NF7-S motherboard)...well anyways, I came upon different versions of Windows. There was the normal outrageously priced one, the academicly priced one (which unfortunately only covers an upgrade to Windows XP Pro), and an OEM version. Currently on my old system (p2 450 mhz) I am still running Windows 2000, however I seemed to have unfortunately misplaced my disc, but I think I remember where I might have a copy;) . So my question is about the OEM version. I read somewhere that if you ever upgrade the hardware (processor/motherboard) you can't upgrade XP Pro. Does that mean with an OEM version you wouldn't be able to upgrade it to Longhorn? Also would you recommend that I get the Academic upgrade to Windows XP Pro or just the full OEM version? It's not too much of a price difference to worry about but I am not sure what I should do since this is my first time. And if you can please explain kinda in depth the differences and what it means for a OS to be an OEM because I was told not to buy OEM hardware since, for instance, with processors you don't get the heatsink and fan normally included in the retail version.
Finally, can anyone suggest a good case with a power supply and decent cooling system and where to buy it (looking for one under $100)? This is the only piece of hardware which I am still not sure what to go with.