So what exactly is a "High End PC" - Just something with some grunt and plenty of RAM that I could put together for a reasonable price! Components and the key points I considered follow.
Case: Antec Sonata IV
- 620W PSU
- USB3 ready
- Front connections
- Good size & features
CPU: Intel Core i7 2600
- 3.40Ghz
- Quad Core
- On-board Graphics
- Virtualization support
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-Z68MA-D2HB3
- Supports the CPU [Correct chips & socket]
- Up to 32 GB of RAM
- Graphics ready (dual monitor support)
- USB3 ready
- SATA3 support
Memory: G.Skill 8GB (2x4GB) DDR3 Kit
- 2 Kits -> 16Gb [figured I'd go to 32 Gb if/when I need to]
- 1333 MHz [matches the CPU]
- 7-7-7-21-2N
Drive [OS & Applications]: Seagate 1TB Barracuda 7200.12
- SATAIII,
- 7200rpm,
- 32MB Cache
Drive [Shared Data]: Seagate 1TB Barracuda 7200.12
- SATAIII,
- 7200rpm,
- 32MB Cache
DVD: LG BH10LS30.AYBR10B Optical Storage Devices
- LightScribe™ Disc Labelling
- BD Read and Write
- DVD Read and Write
- CD Read and Write
Monitor: Benq 24" Widescreen
- 2ms
- 1920x1080
- VGA, DVI, HDMI
- Speakers
Keyboard & Mouse: Microsoft Wireless Desktop 700
- Single USB port for both
- Wireless [Short-range]
UPS: CyberPower Value GP LCD 1500VA / 900 W
- Blackout protection [~ 1 hr]
- Brownout protection
- Surge protection
