need some First (well second) Build advice

[Dalziban]

Hey guys, first post on these forums by the way.

I have decided to treat myself to a new system, its my second build but the first was a good few years ago and was hoping people could look what I am planning over and offer some advice. Memory and Motherboard are the bits I am finding hardest to pick, also I have been looking on how to apply thermal past (first build just had a pad on the cooler) and their seams to be many different ways and people arguing over which ones work the best and should be used.

Already have
1 1tb HDD
A 280 Graphics card
A corsair 1k watt power supply

also getting a Cooler Master ATCS 840 case but they do not stock here. (yes I know its a lot of money but I want to treat myself to a nice case which will last a good few years)

Thank you

 

[El_Watcher]

My first question is what operating system do you plan to use? Obviously with that amount of memory, you will have to go 64-bit.

As for applying thermal passte, I would normally apply a pea sized amount onto the CPU, and then using the spreader card (or if not supplied, a drivers licence, credit card etc) spread the paste so that there is only a very thin layer across the whole of the CPU. This video shows you quite well.

 

[FaceplantSi]

Looks like a nice spec - why the extra HDD if you already have one? I can only assume you'll use the WD Green for data storage to take advantage of it's energy saving features and the one you already have for OS/Apps?

TIM application for an i7 - as you say everyone has their preferred method - I stick with the recommendations as per the Arctic Silver website - with the i7 chip oriented to have the corner 'triangle' mark at the top left, apply a think line across the centre of the chip as that will go across the centre line of all 4 cores and so should give good even coverage (you may need to give the HSF a little twisting motion as you seat it to help spread the paste) - and golden rule - don't use too much!

 

[user1453]

The western digital green drives use less power but don not perform aswell compared to the black drives due to the lower spindel speed

I'd suggest chaanging the cooler to a thermalright ultra 120 as it performs better and change all of the s12 to p12 fans as the p12s have a higher cmf

 

[95thrifles]

The P12s are specifically for high static pressure, good for use with the TRUE or for pulling/pushing air through a rad, for a normal case fan though the S12s are more suited.
Your spec looks bang on to me, very good choice of mobo too, and the RAM is fine also, enjoy