Upgrade Your PC on a Budget with Intel B85 Chipset

Upgrade Your PC on a Budget with Intel B85 Chipset

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Client's Requirements
3. Budget Considerations
4. Motherboard Selection
5. Power Supply Choice
6. Memory and Storage Selection
7. CPU Choice
8. Graphics Considerations
9. Case and Accessories
10. Building the System
11. Conclusion

Introduction 🖥️

In this edition of Mike's Tech, we are going to discuss a lower-end budget build for a client. The primary goal of this build is to provide an affordable upgrade for the client's computer, which is currently running on Windows XP. With XP expiring, it is the perfect time to build a new computer that meets the client's needs while staying within a tight budget.

Client's Requirements 💼

The client expressed their desire to upgrade their computer due to the expiration of Windows XP. Although they do not require a high-performance system, they wanted a decent upgrade from their current setup. The client currently has an Intel Core 2 Duo E7200 processor, DDR2 memory, and a GeForce 8600 GT graphics card. However, they are open to exploring onboard graphics options and are looking for a motherboard with at least four memory slots for future upgradability.

Budget Considerations 💸

To ensure a cost-effective build, we took the client's budget into consideration. We aim to provide them with the best possible performance while staying within their financial limitations. By opting for onboard graphics and carefully selecting components, we can achieve a balance between affordability and functionality.

Motherboard Selection 🏢

After thorough research, we have chosen the ASUS 85MG motherboard that features the B85 chipset. While primarily designed for business use, it offers the perfect features for our client's needs. In particular, it meets the client's requirement of having four memory slots, allowing for easy memory upgrades in the future. This motherboard provides a solid foundation for the entire build.

Power Supply Choice ⚡

To power this budget build, we have selected the EVGA 500W 80 Plus power supply. This power supply unit (PSU) meets the requirements of the motherboard and the overall system. With 500 watts of power, this PSU is capable of supporting future upgrades, including the addition of a decent graphics card. It provides reliable and efficient power delivery, ensuring stability and longevity for the system.

Memory and Storage Selection 💾

For memory, we have chosen an 8GB DDR3 1600 RAM kit from A-Data. This kit provides ample memory capacity for the build and is more than sufficient for the client's needs. The Crucial M500 240GB SSD serves as the primary storage device. This SSD offers fast performance, resulting in quick boot times and reduced application loading times. The client also plans to reuse their existing 500GB mechanical hard drive for additional storage.

CPU Choice 💻

The central processing unit (CPU) chosen for this build is the Intel i3-4130. It offers a good balance between performance and affordability. With dual cores and four-way hyperthreading, this CPU delivers ample power for everyday tasks. Moreover, it features Intel HD 4400 graphics, which surpasses the performance of the client's current GeForce 8600 GT card. The i3-4130 will provide more than enough power for the client's needs.

Graphics Considerations 🎮

Considering the client's non-gaming requirements, we have decided to rely on the integrated graphics provided by the Intel HD 4400. The performance of onboard graphics has significantly improved over the years, eliminating the need for a discrete graphics card for non-gaming tasks. However, if the client decides to engage in gaming in the future, the 500W power supply will support the addition of a mid-range graphics card.

Case and Accessories 🖨️

We have selected the ZION 560 BK micro ATX case to house the components. This case offers a compact form factor and is a perfect match for the chosen motherboard. To meet the client's basic sound requirements, we have included a budget-friendly pair of Logitech speakers. Additionally, an ASUS DVD Writer provides the necessary optical drive functionality.

Building the System 🔨

In the next segment, we will walk you through the process of building this budget system. We will cover various basic tasks, such as installing the CPU, heat sink, memory, and other essential components. We have prepared individual videos to guide you through each step to ensure a smooth building process. Stay with us as we bring this system to life!

Conclusion 🏁

With careful selection and consideration of the client's requirements and budget, we have put together a budget-friendly build that meets their needs. This system provides a significant upgrade from their current setup, offering improved performance and functionality. Whether for general use or future gaming possibilities, this build strikes a balance between affordability and performance.

Highlights ✨

• Affordable budget build for a client upgrading from Windows XP.
• Careful component selection to meet performance requirements while staying within budget.
• ASUS 85MG motherboard chosen for its four memory slots and suitability for the client's needs.
• EVGA 500W 80 Plus power supply provides ample power for future upgrades.
• 8GB DDR3 1600 RAM kit and Crucial M500 240GB SSD offer fast and efficient memory and storage.
• Intel i3-4130 CPU with Intel HD 4400 graphics for excellent performance and improved graphics.
• Choosing onboard graphics for non-gaming needs and future upgradability.
• ZION 560 BK micro ATX case for a compact and compatible build.
• Step-by-step guide to building the system.

FAQs 🙋‍♂️🙋‍♀️

Q: Can this budget build handle gaming? A: While the build is not specifically designed for gaming, it does have potential for future upgrades, including the addition of a mid-range graphics card. With the 500W power supply, the system can support gaming needs.

Q: Is the storage capacity sufficient for the client's needs? A: The primary storage, a 240GB SSD, offers ample capacity for the client's Present requirements. They can also reuse their existing 500GB mechanical hard drive to increase storage space if needed.

Q: Will the client be able to upgrade the memory in the future? A: Yes, the selected motherboard has four memory slots, allowing for easy memory upgrades. The client can add more memory as needed without replacing any existing modules.

Q: Are the Logitech speakers included in the build suitable for basic sound needs? A: Yes, the chosen Logitech speakers provide basic sound output and are suitable for the client's non-audio-intensive requirements.

Q: Can you provide recommendations for a mid-range graphics card to add in the future? A: Based on compatibility and power supply constraints, we recommend considering options such as the NVIDIA GTX 1660 Super or AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT for a mid-range graphics upgrade.

Resources:

• ASUS 85MG Motherboard
• EVGA Power Supplies
• A-Data Memory
• Crucial M500 SSD
• ZION 560 BK Case
• Logitech Speakers