$1500 Build

This is a build using mainly Cooler Master and MSi parts, but you could easily build a similar system using ASUS, Gigabyte, Corsair, Fractal Design, etc.

The intent behind this would be for a very nice gaming system with a light overclock capability.

Here is a link showing the parts: http://pcpartpicker.com/user/Metman2PSU/saved/4am9

CPU: Intel 4770K
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO
Motherboard: MSI Z87-G45 Gaming
Memory: Kingston Beast DDR3-2400 8GB
SSD: Corsair Neutron GTX 120GB
HDD: Seagate Barracuda 2TB
GPU: MSI GeForce GTX 770 2GB
Case: Cooler Master HAF XB EVO
PSU: Cooler Master 650W
OS: Windows 7 Home Premium

Feel free to comment on what you would use from these or other vendors or Tweet me suggestions @Metman2Tech

Update On Unboxed Parts

I did not get a chance to really stop and document the process of replacing the daughterboard on the Dell Inspiron 1750 laptop like I had hoped.  I wound up replacing it on a whim when the old one failed fully leaving us unable to charge the laptop at all.  I do have a picture of the laptop disassembled on the kitchen table that I will upload later.

Here is the new part that is in the laptop now.  The center portion of the power connector was broken off and the metal pins bent and then one finally broken.

I was able to get the laptop reassembled and it working order with only one real hitch.  I wound up taking it back apart the next day to better secure the connector for the power button, which had come loose.

This photo shows why techs charge so much to do a laptop repair.  This is right after the old broken part came out.

I have not yet done anything with the DD-WRT or component installations yet and still hope to film at least a portion of them for YouTube and take pictures for here.