Sweet, thanks for all your help man. Really appreciate it. I don't think I'll be able to buy pre-built again though =( You've ruined me.

Now lets just hope I can put it together =)

It shouldn't be difficult. Just remember that if it fits it's supposed to be there, and if it fits in multiple places it's probably supposed to be there too :D

Really, it's very intuitive nowadays.

I built my computer by finding all the loose wires and all my components and just sticking them where they fit (except for the power LED, Power Software and Reset cables from my case to my mobo, I actually had to read on the mobo to understand where to put those).

Then I started it and nothing happened. So I looked around for un-connected cables. I found a power connector on the motherboard, but found no corresponding cable from the PSU. So I read the instructions for both the PSU and the motherboard and finally solved my problem and got my computer running. Yeay! It was scary though, having a computer that didn't work...

Haha yea, it looks pretty easy, but still a little intimidating.  I'm not so worried about leaving something unplugged, as thats pretty easy to fix, as firing it up and having it start to smoke =(. 

I'll definitely be perusing the instruction manuals before starting though.  I'm gonna get some MX-2 thermal paste as well as it seems like a good idea.

Thanks for the input =)

I've only ever built PC's with ASUS mobo's and their manuals basically cover everything you need to know about it.

In my experience building a PC is easier than following Lego instructions. Also when you are installing RAM, don't be afraid to push harder than you think because the first 2 times I installed RAM I didn't seat the RAM properly.

Ahhh yes, its been a while but I remember when I first upgraded the ram in my old PC i thought I broke it cuz it seated so hard. It really didnt wanna go in, but didn't look right sticking out so I gave her a good push and it kinda went "crunch" and then looked like it was in place.  I was sure I had buggered it until it actually booted.  

How bout cooling fans?  That case has an intake and an exhaust fan, I think they're both 12cm.  That should be good enough unless I start overclocking or add more Hard disks or video cards right?

I've had real hit or miss with most cases, but I will blame myself for originally thinking $80-120 for a case with no/PSU was ridiculous.  Ever since getting past that stupid oversight I've never had cooling issues in a good case.  If you really start overclocking, you will find initially better results in RAM heatspreaders and aftermarket heatsinks.  If you are still having cooling issues the case fans could add a little more cooling.

Good to know, sounds like I shouldn't have an issue. I'm gettin pretty excited to actually be able to build this thing, it should be pretty fast.  You guys were totally right about building your own, I like knowing that my PC will be made of quality stuff, and you get more for your $ as well.

You'll also find that the warranties offered are better than a pre-built.

Try to find a good building guide or get a friend to help the first time, you will learn a lot. It's not hard, just follow the directions and take your time - have good lighting like a flashlight and a good screwdriver set. And be sure to discharge yourself of static before starting.

Yea I'll definitely take my time, the last thing I wanna do is fuck it up.

So I ordered the goods tonight and NCIX honored all the price matches, even though some of them were quoted after the mail-in rebates.  Which I thought was pretty funny because I found some items on sale and the power supply was half price.  So far very pleased. Now lets see how long it takes to get my stuff.