Inq's 2011 i5 SB Build

Why a build log? When I decided to purchase a new system, I wanted to document the progress, plan the parts-purchases and share this knowledge with others. I had read very many requests for help from people building new systems, but never really the opposite, a build with references so others would know the reasons behind the choice. Writing this log was not a solely selfless act however. Since I am somewhat of a scatterbrain, I also wanted to document it for myself for future reference in case I decided to swap a part, or in case I decided to switch platforms. When I started the selection-process I started with an i7 920 build, then quite quickly switched to an i5 750 build and then Sandy Bridge i5 2500K which is when I ordered the main parts and put this log online. Use the menu for easy access to the parts that interest you. Those uninterested in my reasons for chosing the components, skip straight to "Building". References is meant for those of you who are building your own systems and/or are looking for reviews of components. For those who prefer pictures over text, simply click on "Pictures". For those of you who want the whole thing, keep reading. :)

"Starhammer" The build idea evolved as I read up on the different parts and their specs. The last time I built a PC was in 2001 and it actually is in daily use and runs smoothly to this day! I decided that I wanted the PC to have the following characteristics: It had to be: Silent but have good cooling

Versatile

Overclockable

Able to play most games at highest settings

Possible to add a second graphics card at a later date

Cool in a non-flashy way Regarding the silence, I don't need a completely silent rig, but I wanted a system where I wouldn't have to hear a constant rattling or humming and where I could still, if necessary, increase the cooling to a high level. I used SPCR many times when chosing parts. Concerning the versatility, I wanted a system with as few as possible bottlenecks. I didn't have to be THE fastest, but it had to still be fast and have no real weak points. Hard, I know. Especially since I wanted value even at the high-end and I'm not made of money. The possibility to overclock the system was a necessity since overclocking if done right, really translates into (nearly) free addtional performance. HERE is a good beginners' explanation of overclocking and why you really should try it, even if it isn't a high overclock. When I was still planning an i5 750 build, I was very impressed with THIS overclocking guide by Miahallen over at techreaction. Overclocking works very different for the i5 2500K. Bit-Tech has a guide HERE, but I will leave the link to the old guide here and in the references anyway. About being able to play at high settings. Considering the amount of money I am spending, this seems like a reasonable request. :) I believe it is simply not possible to futureproof an entire system, but I wanted to extend the life of it through buying a second graphics card later on. Sandy Bridge being new also made me take the jump since I can fairly assume it isn't a dead socket just quite yet. I don't like windows and flashy lights on a case. At least not the way they are presently used. Some lights are ok, but I don't want to overdo it. I wanted a quiet stylish dark look. Ok, on to parts selection.