Re: EverQuest PC Building & Laptop Guide
HP Z600 Dual Xeon Quad Core
Username: The Incog
Date of build:5/20/16
Purpose of PC: Overbuild for my 6 man grp and 4 traders
Instances of EQ: *Update* Running 18 clients without issue - some gfx still on
EQ graphics settings: *Update* Spell effects off - half the models off
Processor: Dual Xeon Quad Core - 2 CPUs
CPU cooler: Stock
Motherboard: Stock
Memory: *Update* 12 gb - working perfect, will get more later
Graphics: GTX 750 TI 2g's
Audio: Stock - EQ sound off haha
Storage: Stock 250g's SATA 3 -
1 TB and
250 SSD on the way
Storage2:
Case: BMW Custom modular built for HP
PSU: 650 Stock
Total cost at time of post: Under $500 (including HD and SSD)
Even though I know that core vs core the i7 beats the Xeon, I didn't think I could find an 8 tru-core i7 rig, at any price much less for under $200. I wanted the 8 core because of
something Lax said over at IS. I knew I was basically going to be running a 6 man grp, don't see me doing more than that except traders, and that perhaps not at the same time, and I wanted to start turning visuals back on.
I will do something with the memory later, it's working fine as is, probably go at least 16, maybe 32, but I think I need server mem and that's more expensive. The case weighs a ton (must be 50 #) which explains the shipping. It's entirely modular, more-so than you would think, bordering on proprietary (replacing the PSU would be very spendy as it's built solely for this case). It's completely tool-less and a real treat to work with - like a Transformer. Rugged as all hell. My research reveals good reviews. I am pleased.
I went with the GTX 750 TI as research showed it was twice the power/mem for less power usage/requirement. I nabbed it for $100. I have on the way the 1 TB drive mentioned previously from Microcenter. I found it at same price with free 2 day shipping at Amazon and wish I had gone that route as I am still waiting for the damn thing. I also have on the way the Samsung 250 SSD from Bestbuy mentioned previously but once again, found it on Amazon for same price and woulda already received it. Tip: Don't use Paypal if ordering it from Bestbuy. Mine is hanging in limbo and the order # isn't found in their system. They just aren't up to snuff.
- - - Updated - - -
Also, by using
Microsoft's Media Creation Tool you can download and burn an ISO to install on a new PC/HD. I purchased an activation key on the intarwebs for $30.
** Update ** The GTX 750 TI runs 3 monitors flawlessly; 1 HDMI (converted), 1 displayport (adapted - don't have a displayport capable monitor) and DVI (latest gen). Monoprice.com has the best prices for cables. IS really likes this vid card.