Create PC Recommendations for Performance Evaluation
Create PC Recommendations for Performance Evaluation
I’m preparing to construct a second PC for testing purposes using an unused Asus G10CE case. My goal is to swap out all my spare machines with outdated components while keeping costs under $500. I’ve already chosen the following part:
https://pcpartpicker.com/list/Xk4mMV
This new build will mainly serve as a bench for hardware testing, running various programs, compressing files, evaluating gaming mods, and pre-checking games before using it for my primary system. I’ll be operating Windows 10 alongside several Linux distributions, connecting HDD drives, and using USB 3.2 Gen 1. I don’t really need cutting-edge gear unless I plan to upgrade it later.
The Ryzen 5 3600 seems sufficient, and it actually outperforms the CPU in my current Xeon W-2135. That was something I wanted to avoid, but the 3600 or an Intel 13100F were the most affordable choices. I won’t be overclocking anything here, and I expect to use this PC for about five years before replacing it.
The SSD capacity exceeds what I require, though it might be used on another machine later. RAM should be 3200Mhz with CL16 speed, as recommended for the 3600.
The PNY GTX 1070 is already in my other system, and I plan to swap it out for a Gigabyte GAMING OC Radeon RX 7600 there, while the GTX 1070 will stay here. I don’t need a monitor since I have a ViewSonic VX2452mh available.
A possible concern is the Asus case and its non-modular 500W ACBel PSU. I’ve read about ACBel PSUs on Tom’s Hardware, so I’m choosing a SeaSonic alternative. The case also has airflow issues, but I’ll manage that. Asus or ROG thought a single intake vent at the bottom was a smart move.
Please share your feedback and thank you for your responses.
Doesn't sound much like a bench testing rig at all, just a secondary computer.
I don't see much logic in pre-installing games on anything.
I also don't see the logic in using slower components in a main gaming rig and then spending money on a rig that is faster and using it for testing.
If I wanted to build a machine on the cheap that was somewhat upgradeable, I probably would lean towards Intel.
Ryzen 5500 is one dollar more, certainly would at least do that.
But I would probably do something like this instead, room to drop in a 14700k when that price starts to fall:
PCPartPicker Part List
CPU:
Intel Core i3-13100 3.4 GHz Quad-Core Processor
($134.97 @ Amazon)
Motherboard:
ASRock Z690 Phantom Gaming 4/D5 ATX LGA1700 Motherboard
($109.99 @ Newegg)
Memory:
Silicon Power Value Gaming 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR5-6000 CL30 Memory
($94.97 @ Amazon)
Storage:
TEAMGROUP MP33 1 TB M.2-2280 PCIe 3.0 X4 NVME Solid State Drive
($60.99 @ Amazon)
Power Supply:
Corsair RM750e (2023) 750 W 80+ Gold Certified Fully Modular ATX Power Supply
($99.99 @ Amazon)
Total:
$500.91
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by
PCPartPicker
2024-06-04 14:36 EDT-0400
If you're planning to run a test bench for hardware evaluation, it's best to do it correctly by using a proper test bed, such as the Open BenchTable. I own the Titanium edition Open BenchTable BC1T. In this context, your hardware should be centered around the bench table for optimal results. For case testing, you'll need to consider standardized tests—there are many discussions on platforms like YT, with creators like Gamer'sNexus and OC3D providing detailed insights.
Maybe my message wasn’t clear. I was aiming to set up a second machine for tasks unrelated to my primary system. That was the main objective.
I plan to run Linux mostly, and switching operating systems on a single device is quite inconvenient. I intended to use the second computer mainly for assembling a gaming PC with Linux Mint. It will also serve as a replacement for my SFF and Mini HP units, which lack strong performance and easy multi-drive connectivity.
It’s accurate that I chose a CPU offering slightly better performance than my Xeon W-2135, and I mentioned wanting to avoid that upgrade. I explored CPUs from various generations and socket types, so perhaps I’ll select an alternative from my existing list.
My current main machine is a Lenovo Thinkstation P520 running the W-2135. It offers limited flexibility for consumer modifications. In theory, I could build a more powerful system and use the P520 as a secondary setup, but no case matches the unified design Lenovo provides.
I might have a functioning test bench, but my surroundings are extremely dusty due to two hunting dogs frantically looking for rabbits underground. Plus, they shed their summer and winter coats with every seasonal shift.
Nevertheless, it seems irrelevant whether the rig is open or not; dust inevitably accumulates eventually.
It's not very logical to purchase an older CPU when newer, similarly priced options exist. If you're investing in new components, buying used doesn't make sense. It won't offer better efficiency or performance.
I don't notice any unique features about the P520 chassis—it seems like a standard ATX setup. It probably only has six expansion slots, which might require a Micro ATX board. This could be verified with some measurements. It looks like you could simply install a regular ATX power supply where they are available.
I've always appreciated the straightforward design of the Phanteks Enthoo series. The Pro 2 model is interesting and includes an optical drive bay if you want to keep that feature. It's also Full ATX, which is quite tall.
I believe I should reassess my setup. I had already planned to refurbish my Lenovo, which is why I chose a slightly improved CPU for a second machine since it didn’t seem crucial at the time.
This isn’t directly related, but the P520 features a unique motherboard, power supply, and front panel USB hub. The PSU connects via an edge connector to the board. I’ve already taken some measurements and determined that the case should fit a standard ATX or mATX board, as well as a standard ATX power supply, though it won’t accommodate a 120mm cooler. I was considering a Thermalright Silver Soul 110 for this reason.
The issue with the front panel is that it also uses an edge connector on the PCB, which would interfere with the power connections on a consumer motherboard. It wouldn’t work either. While searching eBay, I discovered something similar from an HP Z4 or something comparable but with internal USB connectors. If it’s compatible, it could be useful for a new build.