I don't believe you can build the kind of system you are talking about for $350.00, not even with components from pricewatch.com.
At least not any system I would want to admit that I built.
Remember, when your cousin has a big $350.00 headache, he is going to blame you.
The prices that paparazi listed are a little high for the U.S. market but they do not add up anyway.
Motherboard: $105.00
Processor: $155.00
20GB Hard drive: $102.00
Heatsink/Fan: $ 12.00
Case w/PS: $ 45.00
Floppy drive: $ 15.00
CD-ROM drive: $ 42.00
128MB Memory: $ 42.00
--------
TOTAL: $518.00
They must use the "new math" in the U.K. Just kidding.
Like I said those prices are a little high, but realistic. Do you think you could knock $150.00 off?
That also doesn't include a keyboard, mouse, or speakers.
And that is with a PC Chips motherboard which I wouldn't use if my life depended on it. Well, maybe if
my life depended on it.
My point is for you and your cousin to decide what he really needs and to set a realistic goal.
Buy good components. They don't have to be the latest and best technology; just good quality parts.
If he is just going to download and play MP3s, then why does he need a 1.4GHz processor? It seems like a waste of money to me. Money that could be spent on a good sound system or broadband internet access.
Do like smileybry said. Go to
and price your ideal system. Then decide what you can cut corners on, without buying junk, and go from there. Keep in mind what your cousin really needs.
If you can salvage some parts from an older system that you or your cousin already have, that will save some money.
You can get a 900MHz Athlon for under $70.00 and a name brand motherboard for under $100.00.
You can probably build a good system for $350-$400, but not with a 1.4GHz Athlon.
Opinions are like a**holes; everybody has one and they all stink, even mine.
Hope this helps. Good luck.
John