Maximum PC

I have $400 and need a case, mobo, ram and proc. I've spent the last 6 months out of the loop and this is pathetic for me to be asking. What can you suggest. This is mainly a typing and light gaming comp for the next year. I just got rid of my 2500 plus for a laptop for work.

ONE possible configuration:

PMI Turbo 2x256mb PC3200 2.5-3-3-7 - $94
Antec Case w/ 350w - $74
Abit NF7-S mobo - $85
Barton 2500+ - $80
Total = $333 shipped (Newegg)

You can get that price up or down, depending on where you want to cut/add corners. Substituting a Biostar nForce2 mobo for $50, you bring your total down to $298. Or get a faster chip - 3000+ will run $146 and eat up all your budget at $399.

Others will undoubtedly chime in, but that gives you a sketch to start from. Given the components you're in need of, going back to a Barton setup is going to be your best option.

That's pretty much what I would suggest, except I would definitely get better RAM.

You can get Mushkin or Kingston for less, Corsair for the same price, or Crucial for only a little more from Newegg.

a good case to get that doesnt cost really that much is an antec case. for ram, good quality that provides great performance and doesnt really cost that much would be crucial. i have experience working with crucial ram and i have to say that crucial makes pretty kickass memory. if you decide to buy crucial buy it from their website because i think they come with lifetime warranty.

Yes, when I sorted, I looked at the 2x256 category and forgot to look at individual 256 sticks sorting.

And whether or not you were referring to a single 512mb stick, it's also a good point that he can go with that as well, in a better brands for less. It paves the way to a 1gb dual channel upgrade down the line should he feel he needs either one (1gb or dual channel).

I like One5yu's suggestion. But ur probably not overclocking I assume. So away with the PNY, and with atleast Crucial. They are always quick, fast and good warranty.

Good advice. I was actually quoting prices for two sticks of 256