Hello, I have read the megaguide in order to understand better what I'm looking for. I am a Game Design student and I am looking to upgrade my computer (it's old and cannot handle UDK + Maya) so I can work on my projects outside the school labs. I have to commute, and coming back at 1am and waking up again at 6am isn't that much fun. I know how to model and optimize, but building computers isn't my forte.
I assume it has to be high-end since I'll be making the assets of the games, real time rendering, lighting, shaders (these totally break my computer!) and much more.
I'm looking for a new GC, but I'm unsure whether I need to upgrade anything else in order to use its full potential.
Budget
I have USD $2,000 in my pocket. I would prefer to have something to spare for my school needs, though. (This is technically a school need?)
Resolution
1920x1200...?
Games / Settings Desired
Hmm, I guess as long as it runs Crisis 3...
I need to have games at least High-Ultra so I can explore, research, take good quality screenshots/videos and stuff like that.
Any other intensive software or special things you do
3D modeling parallel UDK. I usually have open UDK, Maya/3Dmax, Mudbox/zBrush, Photoshop and misc in the Computer Labs of my school. I don't know how much strain this is for a normal computer. I need one that can forgive some mistakes with the polycount as well. xD
I also do animation, but that must not take too much of a toll.
My computer can barely handle Photoshop, Maya and zBrush at the same time. (It slows down and at times crashes...) I figured it is time for an upgrade.
Country
USA
Parts that can be reused
This is what I have:
CPU: Intel Core i7 2600 3.40GHz
Sandy Bridge 32nm Technology
RAM: 8.00GB Dual-Channel DDR3 665MHz (9-9-9-24)
Motherboard: Gigabyte Technology Co., Ltd. H61M-USB3-B3 (Socket 1155)
Graphics: DELL U2410 (1920x1200 60Hz)
ATI Radeon HD 5700 Series (Sapphire/PCPartner)
Storage: 465GB Seagate ST3500413AS ATA Device (SATA)
I suppose I could reuse the CPU, the RAM and the Storage. I'm not so sure about the Graphics card and Motherboard.
Not every graphics card is compatible with what I have, and buying an old model might just not be enough for UDK and etc. That's why I'm here, I'd like some advice in that regard.
Also, would a new case be in order? My case is Antec One Hundred Mid Tower (I think). The Power Supply is Accent 550W PL820R, would it be enough in case I buy a new GC?
Do you need an OS?
No, I have my Windows 7 Ultimate copy already. I like it. xD
Do you need peripherals?
No, I already have these.
I hope I'm not forgetting anything...