Introduction

So many people have asked me about what they need to build their own PC based around a Shuttle XPC barebones system that I've decided to put it down in writing for ease of use. This page is about assembling a good specification compact PC for general desktop use and occasional gaming. If you want a kick-ass top-of-the-range, über-polygoned gamer PC, this probably isn't what you're after.

For each item I've added links to possible component purchases. Where applicable they're listed in bang-per-buck order, from best to worst.

The Case

The best Shuttle XPC that we've found for the general user is the SN41G2V3. It's a Socket A based system with excellent quality on-board graphics, sound, USB, optical audio, firewire, etc. It's a good place to start for a complete system.

A Processor

The SN41G2V3 will take any Socket A processor from AMD (the original model, the SN41G2 will only take up to a 333MHz FSB processor). Which processor you choose depends entirely on how much you want to spend; you won't need a fan as the XPC has its own cooling system, so either retail or OEM will do.

Some RAM

The SN41G2V3 has two memory slots and can take up to 2GB of RAM. The built-in graphics will consume a configurable amount of memory from the total. 400MHz RAM will give best performance, but if you're using the built-in graphics rather than an AGP graphics card, the RAM speed will be limited to 333MHz because of the bus contention. As there's little difference in the price it's still worth buying DDR400 RAM now in case you decide to add an AGP graphics card later. You can choose one or two sticks of RAM:

A Hard Disk

There's space inside the SN41G2V3 for one hard drive and one floppy drive (or similar), or two hard drives.

A CD/DVD Drive

You can fit anything you like in the SN41G2V3's 5.25" bay, but given current prices you might as well go for a snazzy DVD+RW Dual Layer drive. If money's tight, look further down the list to the single layer DVD+RW, DVD-ROM, CD-RW and CD-ROM drives.

Many drive models are now available with a silver bezel to match your aluminium case; but if the one you choose isn't, don't worry, as we can add a stick-on metal bezel that will look just as good. Or, you might not actually care that your drive is beige.

DVD+RW Dual Layer Drives

DVD-RW/+RW Drives

DVD-ROM Drives

CD-RW Drives

CD-ROM Drives

A Floppy Drive

Apparently there are still people who still use floppies and Zip disks! If you're one of those people, you might like to add one of these:

A Monitor

DVI Monitors

Analogue Monitors

An Operating System

Unless you already have an OS, you'll need to add one if your XPC is to be anything but a shiny metal box.

Software

Cosmetic Additions

If you've chosen a CD or DVD drive without a silver front, you can stick this alloy bezel over it. It does cover any sockets, knobs or slots on the front (apart from the eject button, obviously), but is a good match for the cosmetics of the SN41G2V3.

Additional Interfaces

There are two optional interfaces for the SN41G2V3 - a DVI port that fits in the AGP slot but uses the internal graphics chipset, and a parallel port for any legacy devices.

Optional Extras

Well, so far you've got a high spec silver box, but there's a chance you won't already have a keyboard, mouse, monitor, and the like. Here's a selection of peripherals:

Consumables

Assembly

As long as you've some technical experience - fitting your own hard disks, RAM, processor and the like - you'll have no trouble assembling an XPC-based system. There are a few common mistakes, though:

• Shuttle provide you with full instructions; follow them.
• Make sure all the components are firmly seated on the motherboard.
• Don't forget the gasket that sits between the top of the processor and the ICE cooler.
• The thermal compound is important; don't be stingy with it.
• Don't let the spare wires get in the way of the airflow or the fan. There's a plastic clip on the underside of the drive caddy that will keep the IDE ribbon cable out of the way.

The Future

Every processor series only has a limited lifespan. There will come a point where AMD decides to cease production of all Socket A processors. AMD64-based systems using Socket 939 will be the future, but if you want a good spec, cost effective system now an SN41G2V3-based solution is a good answer.

©2004-2005 David Marshall. All Rights Reserved. While every effort has been made to ensure the contents of this page is accurate and current, please make your own checks before buying.