Desktop build Advice for First time builder

I am going to build my own desktop this summer and need some help with the components. I have been doing a lot of research and am stuck on a few things:

1. Which case is better: Antec P180B or the Antec 900

I like the looks of the P180B better but i heard that cooling and building is better/easier with the 900

2. What company makes the best Hard drives?

3. I want to run a 3 screen multi-screen set up (2 17" and 1 20-22" wds monitors). I know that i will need 3 monitor hook up ports, which requires multiple graphics cards. what i need to know is if these cards need to be the same or can i have 1 high end card (nVidia 8800GTS chipset) and then a lower-mid end card for the other port(s)? (need at least one high end for CAD Work)

4. I will prolly max out at 4GBs of RAM, but should i buy 2 x 2GB modules or 4 x 1GB modules? Also, who makes the best RAM?

5. I need help with a motherboard selection? I know nothing about them and i know i will be using the following:

a. Intel Core 2 Duo E6600 processor

b. 2 500GB SATA HDD

c. at least 2 DVD+-RW optical drives (who makes the best drives)

d. prolly a floppy drive

e. 700W or so PSU





Thanks in advance for any advice/help provided!

Looks like your aiming for a high end pc, Whats your budget and we can see if we can't get a few configurations up here for you.

My budget is somewhere around $2000 max. What i will prolly do is build a basic computer first, like 1 graphics card, 1 monitor, 2 GBs RAM, 1 HDD. Something like that. I would like to keep the initial build under $1300 or so, if possible.

so are you building two computers, or one that you plan to upgrade later?

Either he means 2 computres, or get a computer , get the basic parts, then go high tech.

What he meant is that he wants to buy a computer, his budget is 2000$ but he would prefer building one around 1300$ and then upgrade later.

About the antec cases, well i prefer the 900 since it has better air flow but it all depends on yourself and the fact if you want a quiet case like the p180

Yes i will be building only one computer starting with the basics and then upgrading later

I Prefer Seagate or Western Digital



I personally, would go for the 4 x 1GB Modules, as then you can run Dual Channel.



And I also Prefer Corsair, dont know bout any hardcore gamers But keep askin, you will get a reply soon.

what about my other questions?

you will need to buy 2 video cards to run more than 2 monitors unless you can spend 400 dollars for a firemv2400 which can handle up to 4 monitors.