Basic Mod

My question: Is it plausible to install a new PSU, get a new monitor, OC my cpu, and replace CPU fan for around $200?

MY System: eMachines Model ET1161-07

CPU - DualCore AMD Athlon 4050e, 2100 MHz

Mainboard - ECS MCP61PM-GM (eMachines OEM)
MB BIOS - Phoenix - Award WorkstationBIOS v6.00PG
MB PCB Version - 1.03
BIOS Version/Date - Phoenix Technologies, LTD 6.00 PG, 10/29/2008
VBIOS ?

HDD(IDE/SATA) - Hitachi HDT721032SLA

Memory
DIMM1: Empty
DIMM2: Nanya Technology 1G DDR2 800 DIMM CL6
DIMM3: Nanya Technology 1G DDR2 800 DIMM CL6
DIMM4: Nanya Technology 1G DDR2 800 DIMM CL6

VGA Card - Sapphire HD5670 GDDR5 PCI-E HDMI/DVI-I/VGA
VGA Driver - Catalyst Version 11.7

PSU - Lite-On PS-5251-7

CD-ROM(IDE/SATA) - label flash DVD-R+DL

USB Devices - mouse + wireless adapter w/o RF antennae


My Goal : I want to replace the monitor, PSU, ram and possibly CPU cooler (if my mobo/bios allows OC'ing) to play BF3 on my PC.

I am trying to find a cheap way to play BF3. When I saw the trailers for the upcoming FPS, I decided to try and get this game. Sadly, BF3 is going to require a better system to run on min specs.

I thought that I should find a guide on building a custom PC. However, the things I read made me realize that I might be able to save money (and get desired results faster) by using what I already have (i.e. case, MB, HDD, CPU, GPU and ROM drive).

I'm very low on funds. I'm trying to cut corners financially. I don't want to sacrifice the quality or the integrity of the build/mod. I just want to achieve my existing machine's full potential (Without frying it or breaking the bank).

 

eMachines computers are not known for quality components. What you suggest would probably be like dressing up a pig and trying to teach it to dance. You'll end up frustrated and just irritate the pig.

Seriously, you'd be much better off saving your $$ and buying/building a better system. Last time I built one I bought pieces as I could afford them and find a good deal on them.

I's not likely that your m/b would allow overclocking.

My opinion, for what it's worth ...

 

Just get a New AMD A6 CPU + AMD MB + 4GB ===> $110 + $80 + $30.. CAD..forget to overclock your CPU... not worth ...

 

Take the advice offered in posr #2 and don't waste your money trying to mod an eMachine.

 

Ok >Emachines + upgrades = fail

That's fine. Thanks for the input. I'll definitely check out the options offered by sonexpc and win2kpro.

@gr3iz - the pig analogy gave me a good smile, thanks for that.

EDIT: I was wondering how much I need to save before I can build a minimal PC. I have like $200- $250 right now and I am pretty broke.

Can anyone point me in the right direction for guides to get me started on the right foot?