Fred, a few comments: -The VIA/ALI chipset is, IMHO, not as stable or functional as the VIA/MVP3 chipset. I have had excellent success with the FIC/VA503+ (or ATX version), which has 1MB (1024k) cache (larger cache handles large RAM better). -RAM: 128MB DIMM is your best buy right now (under $100). Get the PC-100 stuff, as it is only a few bucks extra. Saves an extra slot for that 128MB you want to put in later so you can comfortably dedicate 32MB RAM to textures for 3D shooters (did I say that?) -CPU: AMD K6-2/450 is only about $30 more than the 400, but the 400 is the best bang-for-buck (just overclock it and you'll get 450 performance) -make sure you get a cooling fan/heat sink, and add thermal compound between sink and CPU for best results (couple of bucks at Radio Shack). -get an EIDE CDROM, not IDE. 32x and 40x are all about the same for most current apps. -see recent postings on software (Winmodem) vs. hardware. I recommend a good hardware modem, but the Motorola modems, for example, work fine on the FIC mobo. -Plan on Windows98 for best results with the latest VIA chipsets. -To save a few bucks without sacrificing much performance, you can go with a Riva 128ZX (8MB AGP 2x) video card. If you run graphics-intensive apps. (such as CAD or 3D games), go for a Diamond Viper card (or similar)...16MB Viper 550/Riva TnT is a good one for about $100. -Get a good, solid case, 250W power supply if you can find it or have the choice. Even if you gut the system later, a good case will last 10+ years (get ATX form factor, or dual form factor, if possible). -If you're picky on sound quality, do some research on the sound card. Output noise (SNR), software, etc. are not all created equal with sound cards. -8.4GB is best buy hard drive right now. Many motherboards still don't support over 8.4GB (why?!), so check that out before going with anything larger than 8.4 GB. -Don't value the bundled software too much...It has a value of ZERO if you wouldn't have to go out and buy it yourself anyway. Check the 'net...you can get used or new software for much less than the "Over $1,000 of software included" value in many advertisements. A program you don't need, want, or use is worth what? Martin Kurr email [log in to unmask] > From: Fred Bullock[SMTP:[log in to unmask]] > Subject: Re: [PCBUILD] PCBUILD Digest - 29 Jun 1999 to 30 Jun 1999 > >>> Are the features on the following p/c the latest and greatest? > >>> If not how antiquated are they? Thanks for Feedback > >>> >VIA /ALI Chipset Mainboard w/AGP > >>> > 512K Pipelined Burst Cache > >>> > 64MB PC-100 SDRAM > >>> > 8.4GB Ultra DMA IDE HD > >>> > ATI RAGE II 8M AGP SVGA > >>> > 40X CD-ROM > >>> > Sound Card, 3D Wavetable > >>> > 3D Powered Stereo Speakers > >>> > 56K V.90 Fax Modem, Internet Ready > >>> > 17" .27 SVGA Digital Monitor, 1280x1024 MPRII > >>> > 1.44MB Floppy Drive > >>> > High Speed I/O Port 2S 1P 1G 2USB > >>> > 104-Key Keyboard w/Hand Rest > >>> > ATX Tower Case > >>> > PS/2 Internet Net Mouse > >>> > MS Windows 98 Pre-installed w/ CD > >>> > Corel WordPerfect Office 2000: WordPerfect 9, > >>> > Quattro Pro 9, Presentations 9, Central 9, Trellix 2 > >>> > AMD K6-2 400 PCBUILD's List Owner's: Bob Wright<[log in to unmask]> Drew Dunn<[log in to unmask]>