Hi

I'd like to get some advice about a computer I'm thinking about getting.  I'm interested in buying a low-end Compaq computer that has an AMD Sempron 3000+ processor, Socket A.  Stock SDRAM, 256 MB.  I want to run all my basic apps and use it for Internet, but I'd also like to be able run Flight Simulator and Nascar as well.  I know it's just a basic computer, and I'll probably have to do some upgrading, but what kind of performance can I expect to get if I run these two programs?  Will this computer be able to run these two games with the computer's existing stock hardware, straight out of the box?  This is my first computer in 6 years and I haven't kept up with technology enough to know if this computer will work well or not.  Any advice and recommendations will be greatly appreciated.  Thanks.

Taas

The games will run but I think the first limit will be your RAM. 512MB is probably better for these games. Off course, this doesn't matter if your videocard is really bad.

Can you give us more information on what you are getting in this system? Like said above, you will need more memory for games. I don't know what your price range is so I can't recommend any alternatives. I looked at the Compaq site and I think I see the system you are looking at. Is it the SR1010Z?

Thanks for the replies and helpful info.  

The model I'm looking at buying is the Compaq Presario SR1300NX.

The basic specs are:
Sempron 3000+ processor (Socket A, 512 mb L2 cache), 256 MB RAM, 60 Gig hard drive, CD-RW 48x32x48x.  One available AGP slot and two available PCI.

I realize now that I'll need more Ram and a good video card to really get the most from these two games/simulation apps.  The system is pretty good deal with rebates, though.  But for running FS and Nascar, it probably won't be cost effective to upgrade it.  
And from what I learned today, I can't changeout the processor either if I wanted to upgrade it later.  So, probably not worth getting afterall.  

Taas

Taas,
Take a look at Dell because they have a lot of different systems available in all price ranges. You can do upgrades on the site before you buy the system. You still didn't tell us what your price range you are looking at.

You can get a Dell Dimension 3000 customized for $563
2.8GHz P4
512Mb Dual Channel RAM
80Gb HD
17" CRT Monitor
16X DVD-ROM and 48X CD-RW Drives
WinXP Home

You can get a Dell Dimension 4700 customized for $992
P4 520 (2.8GHz Prescott)
128Mb ATI X300 PCIe Video card
512Mb Dual Channel DDR2 RAM
80Gb SATA HD
17" Flat Panel LCD Monitor
16X CD/DVD-RW Double Layer single drive
WinXP Home

You can go to the Dell site and customize any system you like so that the price is right and you get what you want.

You can always buy the parts and build your own system like I do. I don't think I save any money but I get exactly what I want and the components in the system are much better than you would get in pre-made systems.

I hope this post gives you a little more information that will make your choice easier. Just ask if you need to know something else since I've been building systems professionally for over 12 years.

Hey thanks ArchAngelCD,

Good idea, I'll head over to Dell and check out their systems.  I like your idea too, about building your own. If I go that route, I'm glad I can bring my questions here, I'm sure I'll have questions, thanks.  I guess I should start deciding which processor I want.  I'll do some research and come back with questions.

Thanks for all the good input and info.  I'll be reading the forums and learning all I can.

Taas

If you do get a Sempron, then get 1 gb DDR ram, and overclock or underclock the sempron to the nearest tenth.