First build. GA-H170N-WIFI w/ i7

[ichris93]

Hi everyone,

This is my first build, ever. I have a mid-2012 retina MBP and the battery will need replacing soon. It is hard for me to go a few days without a computer so I am not considering building a hackintosh.

I am interested in staying with the i7 processor because my daily driver uses the i7. I do not think I need the i7-6700k because I will not do any over clocking. I may not even need the i7?

Right now, I would stick with the integrated graphics and maybe upgrade to a discrete GPU later.

All of the hardware was found on the buyer's guide.

Motherboard: GA-H170N-WIFI $114
RAM: Crucial Budget 16gb $72
CPU: i7-6700 $298
SSD: Samsung 850 EVO 250 2x$91=$182
PSU: Corsair CS 550 $80
WiFi/BT: BCM94360CD with adapter $60
Case: BitFenix Phenom $75

Total: $881

Since this is my first build, I really don't know if there is anything else I need. So, do I need anything else, like cables for connecting the SSDs?

Could I bring the price down?

Will the integrated graphics allow for dual display?

Thanks for the help!

 

[trs96]

The SSD sata cables come in the motherboard package. You'll have plenty.
If you won't be doing things like FCP X video editing you could save some cash by
going with the i5-6500. Saves you about $100. The 6500 will be almost as good as
the i7 for gaming and general purpose use.

 

[ichris93]

The SSD sata cables come in the motherboard package. You'll have plenty.
If you won't be doing things like FCP X video editing you could save some cash by
going with the i5-6500. Saves you about $100. The 6500 will be almost as good as
the i7 for gaming and general purpose use.

Thank you. It has been over 4 years, I think, since I've done any FCP work so the 6500 will probably be fine.

CPU: i5-6500 $205
PSU: Corsair CS 550 $80-$10 rebate=$70

Updated total $778

 

[ichris93]

Would this setup #37 be better than the BCM94360CD with adapter?

 

[trs96]

Would this setup #37 be better than the BCM94360CD with adapter?

Yes, I'd go with #37 as you won't have to occupy your single PCI-e slot with a wireless adapter. Leaves it
open for other options like a discrete gfx card or a sound card etc.

 

[ichris93]

Thanks for the help. Here is where the build stands now.

Motherboard: GA-H170N-WIFI $114
RAM: Crucial Ballistix Sport LT 16GB $60
CPU: i5-6500 $205
SSD: Samsung 850 EVO 250 2x$91=$182
PSU: Corsair CS 550 $80-$10 rebate=$70
Case: BitFenix Phenom $75
WiFi/BT: total $70

• antenna 2x$4.38=$9
• 2x 12inch cables $3.20
• 2x 6inch cables $2.39
• BCM94360CD $38
• Mini Pci-e Adapter $17

Input devices: Wired Keyboard $31

Already own: Magic Mouse

Total about $806

$25 off at Newegg if you use Paypal and PP2016BTS

Bringing it down to $781

Should I, am I ready to, take the plunge?

 

[trs96]

I'm pretty sure the H170N-Wifi comes with two antennas that you could use. Other than that looks like you could place the order to get things going. That Paypal $25 off won't last forever. Certainly not until August 1st.

 

[ichris93]

I'm pretty sure the H170N-Wifi comes with two antennas that you could use. Other than that looks like you could place the order to get things going. That Paypal $25 off won't last forever. Certainly not until August 1st.

Right. The BCM94360CD has 4 antennas so I need two more. And the extra cables come from @Stork 's suggestion from #37

 

[trs96]

Right. The BCM94360CD has 4 antennas so I need two more. And the extra cables come from @Stork 's suggestion from #37

That should be fine then. Didn't remember the BT part of the equation.
Last Mini-ITX board I bought was Ivy Bridge and that combo card was not an option then.

 

[ichris93]

That should be fine then. Didn't remember the BT part of the equation.
Last Mini-ITX board I bought was Ivy Bridge and that combo card was not an option then.

Thanks for the help! I just placed my orders and got the $25 off though paypal. The WiFi stuff may take a while to come in because of a lot if it is coming from China.