[Build Log] INVICTUS: "Unconquerable" - Page 12

I'm coming back home next Thursday, and I will try to troubleshoot all the aforementioned problems. The main problems: booting OS and getting the case to power on the computer. Besides that, the components are running well. The computer has been thoroughly leak tested, and it passed. At stock speeds, my CPU is running @ 20C. Ambient temperatures in my room is regulated, so I'm keeping it moderately cool.

I tried that, but it didn't work. It didn't allow me to use the ISO image that I had. I used two different programs in an attempt to the ISO image work.

I'm not. I actually enjoy problem solving. I'm only discouraged by Mountain Mods. It was an expensive case, and I should have to anticipate troubleshooting a high end case like that. No one buys a Ferrari with the expectation of making it work.

You are absolutely correct. This was a great learning experience, as I had to deal with a wide range of problems that I could not foresee. And, at the end of the day, there's something special about building your own computer, despite the challenges. You can really call it your own, since you customized everything from the ground up. You can install the software without the bloatware, and so on... It's tailored to the individual's needs, and its nice.

I thought about that, and I will do that as a last resort. I'm going to give the USB install one more try before I fall back to other plans.

Thanks for the link. I'll give this a shot when I return home.

I'll keep you all updated and post the rest of the pictures once the computer begins to install Windows.
Edited by Passion - 7/15/12 at 7:10pm

Updates:

I ended up figuring out a way to install Windows successfully, and I will make a note of how I did so in my last chapter of the build log. Everything ran well. I installed Battlefield 3, Starcraft 2, Microsoft Office and I began to partition my disks as well. The computer is amazing, and I'm so happy I built it. However this case is freaking awful.

I paid 190 USD for it, not including shipping (with shipping it came out to 240 USD) however it came with an entire bag of problems. In my mind, a custom solution is supposed to work better than something standardized. I'm disappointed, so I've sent it back to Mountain Mods today to return it. However, there is one positive thing I can say about Mountain Mods. They did provide customer support, although it didn't help me with my problems.

As with anything I do, I strive for perfection. And when I pay for it, and I don't get it, then something is wrong.

UPDATE 2:

Due to crushing reality of financing my graduate school education, I've also decided to scrap the entire project since I've already disassembled the computer because of the case. There's no point for me to rebuild it. I'm not going to have much time for gaming during school, as my focus should remain on becoming recruitable for employment at my dream job. I'll also focus on staying in shape, socializing, networking, etc. I'll make another build log after I land that job, and I will go all out then.

I will still finish my build log with photos, as I still technically built the computer.

I am selling my Catleap Monitor and ALL water cooling components (XSPC RayStorm Extreme Universal CPU...) for a nice discount. It's listed on eBay. I don't think I can sell on the marketplace, but I'll try to find out. Feel free to reach out to me via PM and I'll let you know if it's on the marketplace or not.

I really wish I can have it all, but I'm not in a position to spend this money AND go into debt for school. Once in school, I really need to make it count. I'm sorry to disappoint, but I have to pursue my dreams regardless of the cost.
Edited by Passion - 7/20/12 at 8:42pm

Thank you Demented, but unfortunately this is what has to be done based on personal circumstances and on principle. But, essentially the money spent on the computer is better spent on other things. I still enjoyed the experience, and now I can only hope to salvage as much $$ as possible.

Updates

I have sold everything last summer successfully.

Now that I am finishing up school, I plan on restarting this project around November 2013. I have learned a lot from my build, and I owe a lot to you guys. You have been an incredible help in guiding me through this process. I have probably encountered every problem known to man when it comes to building computers (from case problems to BIOS difficulties), so I expect the next go around to go very smoothly. I know exactly what to expect.

What time of the year do new components come out? Since I have approximated the build date to November 2013, I am wondering if I will miss out on new releases by a month or so. I understand that the industry changes rapidly, and there are always new products. But, if there is a new Nvedia card coming out, an Intel chip, or motherboard, I would rather get the most up-to-date model assuming that it is superior. I rationalise that I can extend the longevity of the system that way.


Thanks for following and for your patience. I will plan a program to involve you guys in the process -- perhaps, I will create a stream for this. It will be fun.