[quote]I just bought a system from Staples but it turns out it is not suitable for gaming so I am returning it this week.
I don't have an unlimited budget and mostly want to run FSX flight simulator with three 24" monitors . I will run Nvidia 3D vision surround
but will have to settle for ATI Eyefinity for now.
What do I need ?
You're video card will (should) be the single most expensive component in the PC. You need to either make a decision now on ATI vs nVidia, or simply wait. It's not really a 'settle for ATI now' type thing unless you don't mind selling or shelfing it if you decide later you want nVidia's 3D.
Nobody likes to say they made a poor choice, so I will recommend the system I just built: :)
Asus P7P55D Deluxe
Intel i5-750
2x Corsair 4GB (2x2G) DDR3 1600
2x ATI 5870
Zalman 1000w PS
NZXT LEXA S Case
Drop down to 4GB memory and one video card to save some duckets. If you do not plan on running to video cards, drop down to a 850w PS to save another 100 bucks. (don't do it, get the 1000)
Others can recommend a i5/MB deal, as they seem to be plentyful, but I like this motherboard. Also, I am guessing that most MB's bundled will have a x4 as the 2nd PCIe slot, which is no good if you want a second video card in the future.
You still need an OS, Hard drive and Optical drive. I transferred those from old PC.
gl
Why 2 5870 cards ? A friend has just one and it works fine on three
monitors. He had to find a DP to DVI adapter for the third monitor which
worked for him.
Problem with Nvidia 3D is the 24" monitors are not available and the drivers
are not released .