What to know if you want to have a gaming computer

If you've used a gaming computer before, you know that it has to be fast, reliable, and be able to run your games smoothly. But what about the rest who have not had a gaming computer before? This article may be a great helper for those who want one.

Before we start talking about new computers, let's start with your existing computer. Believe it or not, you might not have to change a single thing to make your computer a gaming computer. Check to see if your computer has the following components, and if it does, you have what is minimum for a gaming computer. If you don't know how to check this, contact your hardware manufacturer.

Minimum requirements:

1. CPU (Processor) - At least Pentium 4 or Athlon with 2 Ghz speed.
2. RAM (Memory) - Minimum of 2 GB (233 Mhz or faster).
3. Video - At least 256-512 MB, 1024 MB HD card recommended.
4. Hard drive - 250 GB SATA 7200 RPM (Western Digital Caviar or Seagate Barracuda).
5. Power Supply - 350 watt or better recommended.
6. Cooling System - At least 3 fans (including CPU fan).

If your computer meets these requirements, start gaming (or consider upgrading your hardware)!

Now, for those looking into a new computer, here's a setup that will cost under $600!

1. Motherboard - Asus M4A785TD-V Evo ($100)
2. CPU - AMD Phenom II X2 555 3.2 GHz ($90)
3. RAM - Corsair XMS3 4GB Dual Channel DDR3 RAM ($85)
4. Video Card - Diamond Radeon HD 5670 1024MB ($130)
5. Hard Drive - Western Digital Caviar Black 750 GB ($70)
6. DVD Burner - LG GH22NS50R DVDRW Drive ($25)
7. Case - Thermaltake V3 Black Edition Mid Tower Case ($35)
8. Power Supply - Corsair CMPSU-450VX 450-Watt ($55)
   

   TOTAL COST: $590 (USD)