Need Help. Post-Assembly Testing Software & Other Questions

Soaked · January 11, 2015

Hi guys, I was just wondering what kind of testing software for the CPU or GPU, etc I should use after building my PC and installing windows 8.1. I also have a couple questions about some programs I plan to use on my newly assembled PC. Plus some questions not relating to software. Any opinion's/answers are greatly appreciated and will be put to use.

Here's my build: http://ca.pcpartpicker.com/p/dxj3jX

Here are my questions:

1. Hardware Testing

After watching a few of Linus's ultimate "how-to" guide, I noticed one of them suggested to run a couple basic utilities after building such as CPU-Z, Prime 95 (Although I've read Intel Burn Test would be better since Prime95 has problems with Haswell processors?), Real Temp GT and MSI Afterburner (tho I don't even have MSI parts?). Are these nessescary? What programs would you recommend running at the minimal?

2. Common Software

What are your thoughts on programs such as Advanced Systemcare 8(and also the turbo boost option included), Driver Booster and CCleaner? I've been using these programs on my old laptop but I'm unsure if they would make any difference or even a negative effect on my new build. Should I continue using these programs or would you recommend other ones?

3. Update Bios?

Basically ASRock has released a new BIOS update for my motherboard, this update includes an i5-4690k EZ-OC table which appeals to me. Though the warning makes me anxious since ASRock assumes no responsibly if there is damage. Would you recommend getting the BIOS update or leaving it alone? Link: http://www.asrock.com/mb/Intel/Z97%20Anniversary/?cat=Download&os=BIOS

Unrelated to Software Questions:

4. Case Fan Locations

Where would you recommend placing my case fans that I bought for this build? WoodenMarker recommended one for the lower side intake (GPU) area and one for the bottom intake but I'm worried the power supply cables will be in the way and mess up the airflow. I'd like a second opinion.

5. Build Recommendations or Thoughts

What do you think of my build? Specifically my motherboard as a better one would have cost nearly double (Asus Z97-A) should I have just went over my budget? and my monitor(I have a dead pixel, zzzzzz what to do).

I guess that's all, I have to ask for now. Thanks in advance to anyone able to help!

WoodenMarker · January 11, 2015

1. Haswell --> Newer cpus handle voltage differently. Prime95 asks for too much and can be harmful. Benchmarks are good for testing stability but they aren't necessary if you aren't oc'ing.

Msi Afterburner can be useful for setting a custom fan curve as well as monitoring/oc'ing. Brand doesn't really matter.

2. The software can be useful when needed. I otherwise don't touch them.

3. Updating the bios is good. There's also the saying of 'don't fix what isn't broken' and keep in mind that anything you do is at your own risk.

4. Oh.

5. It would help to list your build..?

Soaked · January 11, 2015

1. Haswell --> Newer cpus handle voltage differently. Prime95 asks for too much and can be harmful. Benchmarks are good for testing stability but they aren't necessary if you aren't oc'ing.

Msi Afterburner can be useful for setting a custom fan curve as well as monitoring/oc'ing. Brand doesn't really matter.

2. The software can be useful when needed. I otherwise don't touch them.

3. Updating the bios is good. There's also the saying of 'don't fix what isn't broken' and keep in mind that anything you do is at your own risk.

4. Oh.

5. It would help to list your build..?

Here's my build: http://ca.pcpartpicker.com/p/dxj3jX

I put my build in after my introductory sentence