The Computer Beast!!

Tonight I installed a few new items on my computer. First I installed my second Thermaltake DuOrb on my BFG 8800 GT video card. The stock cooler on the 8800 GT is just horrible and causes the video card temps to spike too high during game play. This leads to component failure and video display problems.

My card: http://bfgtech.com/bfgr88512gtoc2e.aspx

The cooler that I added: http://thermaltakeusa.com/product/cooler/vganchipnmem/cl-g0102/cl-g0102.asp

This is how the video card looks stock.

And this is a picture with the stock cooler removed and the new DuOrb installed.

This cooler has really helped with the video card temperature problems. I also spent several hours routing the cables inside my computer to provide a cleaner look and improve airflow. My Thermaltake case is great, but it is difficult to route the cables for a clean look.

I also added a new side cover that has a fan built into it to provide even better airflow and cooling. It can be found here: http://www.newegg.com/Product/ShowImage.aspx?CurImage=11-999-812-02.jpg&Image=11-999-812-02.jpg%2c11-999-812-03.jpg%2c11-999-812-04.jpg&S7ImageFlag=0&Depa=0&Description=Thermaltake+A2400+Case+Side+Panel+with+25cm+Fan

Several days ago I also installed a new hard drive. This is my first terabyte drive and so far things have gone well. Install is very easy these days with the new mobo's that have the sata interface. My new drive: http://www.newegg.com/product/product.asp?item=N82E16822148274

I was lucky enough to get mine for 50 dollars cheaper than their current price.

The above pictures were taken with my new Nikon D 40. http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d40.htm I do love this camera. I have always been interested in photography, but I just felt like I never had the time to pursue another hobby. I have grown tired of many of the current games out for the PC so I decided it was time to start.

This picture was taken with the kit lens Nikkor 18-55mm DX lens. I have been spending quite a few hours on http://www.kenrockwell.com/. His site is just loaded with great advice and honest reviews. Also my life long friend (Ok more like 20 years) Iceman has gotten more involved with photography as well. He just purchased the new Nikon D 300 which will definitely be my next camera as it is just incredible. You can find an excellent review here: http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d300.htm This camera is just loaded with great features and I plan on upgrading to this model later in the year.

I did bite the bullet (thanks Ice) and bought a new lens. I purchased the Nikkor 18-200mm. You can find a great review here: http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/18200.htm I purchased it from B&H photo here: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/408518-USA/Nikon_2159_18_200mm_f_3_5_5_6G_ED_IF_AF_S.html I also bought the Hoya filter kit to go with it. I also plan on purchasing the Nikkor 12-24mm lens and the Nikon SB 800 flash later in the year. I am planning on spending a little bit of time each day on researching and practicing my photography.