Exploring the Custom Built AMD Athlon XP 2800+
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Overview of the Custom-Built Computer
- Front Panel Components
- CD Rewritable Drive
- Floppy Drive
- USB Ports
- Power and Reset Buttons
- Back Panel Components
- Power Supply
- Keyboard and Mouse Ports
- Parallel and VGA Ports
- USB Ports
- Network and MIDI Joystick Ports
- Line In/Out and Microphone Ports
- Serial Ports
- Analysis of the Case Quality
- Dents and Deformations
- Side Cover Issues
- Difficulties in Removing the Cover
- Inside the Computer
- Introduction to the Motherboard
- Ace Rock Asrock Motherboard
- Expansion Slots and Battery Placement
- Serial Ports and ATA 133 Speed
- Power Supply and RAM
- Cable Management and Cooling
- Cable Routing
- CPU Cooler and Hologram Details
- Absence of Blown Capacitors
- CD Drive, Floppy Drive, and Hard Drive
- LG Drive
- Floppy Drive
- Seagate Barracuda 80GB Hard Drive
- Front Panel USB and Other Components
- Limited Number of Screws
- Missing Second Drive Holder
- Overall Quality
- Powering On and testing the Computer
- Power Supply Issues
- Dust on RAM
- Monitor Connectivity and Image Display
- Mouse Functionality
- Sound Driver Problems
- Conclusion
🖥️ Overview of the Custom-Built Computer
In this article, we will take a closer look at a custom-built computer and discuss its various components and quality. This computer, featuring an Athlon XP processor, is an interesting piece of hardware that we can explore in detail. From the front panel to the back panel, we will examine the different ports and connections. Additionally, we will analyze the case quality, including any dents or deformations. Moving inside the computer, we'll discuss the motherboard, expansion slots, and other key components like the power supply and RAM. Cable management and cooling will also be addressed. Finally, we will test the computer and draw our conclusions based on its performance and overall user experience.
💿 Front Panel Components
Let's start by examining the various components Present on the front panel of the custom-built computer. At the top, we have a 52-speed LG CD rewritable drive, which allows for high-speed disc burning and data transfer. Just below the CD drive, we find a standard floppy drive, ideal for reading and writing data on floppy disks. The front panel also includes USB ports for convenient connection of external devices such as storage drives, printers, or input devices. Moreover, we have the power and reset buttons, which, unfortunately, are not easily accessible due to their inconvenient placement. It seems as though the designers did not prioritize user-friendliness in this aspect.
🔌 Back Panel Components
Moving on to the back panel of the custom-built computer, we discover a range of ports and connectors. The power supply, although it seems to be of questionable quality, is an essential component that provides the necessary electrical power. The keyboard and mouse ports, commonly known as PS2 ports, are conveniently located at the rear of the computer. We also find the parallel and VGA ports, which allow for connections to printers and monitors, respectively. Additionally, there are four USB ports for connecting various peripherals. The back panel also features a network LAN port, commonly known as an Ethernet port, which enables internet connectivity. Furthermore, we have a 15-Pin MIDI joystick port for connecting compatible gaming controllers. Lastly, we find the line out, line in, and microphone ports for audio-related purposes.
📦 Analysis of the Case Quality
Now, let's take a closer look at the case quality of the custom-built computer. Unfortunately, this particular case has several issues that are worth noting. Firstly, the top of the case shows multiple dents, suggesting poor handling or manufacturing. Additionally, the side cover is noticeably bent and does not fit properly, compromising the overall aesthetic appeal. Even the slots on the case, including those for the CD drive and floppy drive, appear to be bent. The overall build quality seems to be lacking, giving the impression of a low-quality product.
💻 Inside the Computer
Taking a peek inside the custom-built computer, we can explore the various internal components. The motherboard, an Ace Rock Asrock motherboard, raises some eyebrows due to its reputation as a cheap and generic piece of hardware. The expansion slots consist of an AMR slot, which stands for Audio Modem Riser, and two PCI slots. It is interesting to note that the motherboard's battery placement could have been more thoughtfully designed for ease of access. The presence of multiple serial ports, some mounted upside down, highlights the overall design flaws. Additionally, the motherboard boasts an ATA 133 speed for enhanced data transfer rates. However, it's worth noting that using an AGP 3.3 volt card on the motherboard's 82P slot may lead to permanent damage.
🔌 Cable Management and Cooling
Looking at the cable management and cooling aspects within the custom-built computer, we find a mix of favorable and unfavorable elements. The floppy and IDE cables are neatly routed from the front of the case all the way to the motherboard, ensuring efficient data transfer. However, the absence of a four-pin power connector is puzzling. The CPU cooler features a hologram, which adds a touch of visual interest. Surprisingly, there are no blown capacitors, indicating a level of quality control. Considering the power supply, it seems underwhelming, with a maximum output of 280 watts instead of the more common 180-watt range.
💽 CD Drive, Floppy Drive, and Hard Drive
Let's delve deeper into the functionality and performance of the CD drive, floppy drive, and hard drive within the custom-built computer. The CD drive, manufactured by LG, is a standard component that allows for reading and writing of various optical discs. The floppy drive, on the other HAND, accommodates older storage media such as floppy disks. As for the hard drive, it is a Seagate Barracuda with a capacity of 80 gigabytes and a rotational speed of 7200 RPM. While these components are functional, they are by no means cutting-edge or exceptional in terms of specifications.
🖲️ Front Panel USB and Other Components
Turning our attention back to the front panel of the custom-built computer, we must address a few design flaws. Surprisingly, there are only three screws holding the motherboard in place, which raises concerns about stability and potential mishaps. An interesting observation is the presence of two drive holders but only one drive, suggesting that there may have been a missing component at some point. The build quality, in general, leaves much to be desired, with minimal attention to detail. However, the front panel is relatively free of blemishes, aside from a few minor issues. Notably, the case is missing a door, but this does not significantly affect its functionality.
🔌 Powering On and Testing the Computer
It's time to power on the custom-built computer and put it to the test. However, before proceeding, we encounter a few difficulties. The power supply appears to be malfunctioning or dead, leading to power-related issues. Additionally, the RAM shows signs of dust accumulation, which might affect its performance. Nevertheless, we manage to establish a connection with the monitor, but the initial display is unremarkable. We encounter minor setbacks with the mouse functionality and sound driver issues. These aspects contribute to an underwhelming user experience.
🔚 Conclusion
In conclusion, the custom-built computer we examined exhibits several shortcomings in terms of design, quality, and performance. The front and back panel components, although functional, lack user-friendly features and show signs of subpar craftsmanship. The case quality, with dents and deformations, leaves much to be desired. Inside the computer, the motherboard and its components showcase a basic and inexpensive setup. Cable management and cooling are adequate but not exceptional. The CD drive, floppy drive, and hard drive function as expected without any standout features. The overall build quality and attention to detail, particularly in relation to the front panel and drive holders, disappoint. Powering on and testing the computer revealed various issues, including power supply difficulties, dust accumulation on the RAM, and setbacks with peripheral devices. Considering all these factors, it is clear that this custom-built computer falls short in terms of design, quality, and overall performance.
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