I would really appreciate some advice regarding my computer system and FSX.  I have been surfing the internet from my recliner for years.  Now that my old laptop has died, I've been trying to find a new one that will let me enjoy FSX and addons -- UTX, GEX, FSGlobal, plus planes and adventure packs -- at generally high settings.

I just bought a Gateway P-7805u from Best Buy: http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=9172511&type=product&id=1218043606...  It's gotten rave reviews from both users and sites like CNET as a truly great gaming system for the price.  $1100 bought me an Intel Core 2 Duo P8500 @ 2.26 GHz, 4 GB DDR3 RAM, Nvidia 9800M GTS with 1 GB DDR3, 320 GB 7200 RPM HDD, and 17" 1920 x 1200 LCD.  Owners brag about running Crysis wide open, but as we know, FSX is "special." (BTW, no video driver problems as some have reported.)

I have tried every trick I can find, using NickN's tips and others.  My OS (Win 7 x64 RC 1) is stripped down, my video card is over clocked as much as possible (about 9000 on 3DMark06), and FSX has been tweaked.  Frankly, the frame rate numbers aren't that bad, but it isn't as smooth as I would like even on medium settings.  I haven't even installed any addons.  My dream, like everyone else, is eye candy and smooth frames.

The laptop is heavy in my lap, but easy enough to use in my living room.  A desktop is more of a logistical challenge, especially in my wife's eyes.  I am considering one of two options.  First, I could replace the P8400 with a T9800 CPU at 2.93 GHz.  The clock speed is a 30% increase, but factoring in the larger cache, performance seems to improve more like 37-40% from what I've read.  The chip would cost about $400, bringing the total system price to $1500, not counting an extra HDD I added.

The other alternative is to custom build a desktop rig.  Costco has a good 28" (!!!)  LCD for $300.  I'd overclock an i7 and get a good video card as part of a $1200-1400 system.  My hope is that this will let me run FSX at higher settings with my addons.  But it presents real problems fitting it into our family room decor, and I'm not going to go into my office whenever I want to fly.

So, I have several questions.  First, what do people think about my current laptop--is it realistic to expect good performance as it is?  So far, I haven't been particularly satisfied.  Second, do you think upgrading the CPU to a T9800 will deliver significantly improved performance?  I know FSX hits the CPU hard, so if upgrading it will really help, that would probably make my wife happier than a desktop.  Third, if I do go the desktop route, can I expect high or better performance with an i7 OC to around 4 GHz and maybe a Nvidia 285 video card?  Fourth, is there any other option I should be considering.

I'm seeking as much feedback as possible as soon as possible because I've only got about 1 week left if I'm going to return the laptop to Best Buy.  Thanks! DAB

I would recommend going for the desktop PC. While that Gateway laptop might run FSX well, in some time you will want to upgrade some part of it, and that's easier if you have a desktop . Find some place to install it. I'm sure you will Returning the laptop would be my choice.

If you're thinking about buying a desktop, building it yourself is the best way. Buy the parts at www.newegg.com --- I recommend you the following for a $1400 budget-- A 23'' display will be ok  






It's $1415 and will be very good at FSX with your addons ... and you can take that 920 to great frequencies!

Good luck!

(If anyone thinks of better parts, please put it down!)

JHA wrote on Jul 4^th, 2009 at 11:41am:


Wow... I really haven't noticed such "attitude"... but whatever... You didn't answer to the questions above.

JHA wrote on Jul 4^th, 2009 at 11:41am:




JHA wrote on Jul 4^th, 2009 at 11:43am:



http://www.simviation.com/cgi-bin/yabb2/YaBB.pl?num=1243541725


http://www.simforums.com/forums/forum_posts.asp?TID=30578


http://forums1.avsim.net/index.php?showtopic=250414

was hoping "systems to run fsx" which became a sticky, would accommodate these inquiries..but when nick placed his ultimate macho system there, i think it scared others away  ..unless there really are hardly any who have a well run system ..i thought it would be possible to share one's system configuration, and include any shortcomings or performance pluses ....and i'm referring to systems that people are using, not just imagining.....but i realize its possible that every person idea of a good running system will be different....