I bought a Dell dual quad core server off lease on ebay for about $600 two years ago. I have used it to run some algos and it has never crashed. I also use it to crunch models after hours. The only downside it puts out a lot of heat.
I have had a lot of luck with Powerspec. This is Microcenter's house brand. I recently got this one, http://www.microcenter.com/product/463588/B727_Desktop_Computer and upgraded the ram to 32g (from 16) for and extra $50, so $849 total plus tax. Have been very happy with it.
Sure, I purchased a lot of 3 HP Z400 for $416 and 1 Dell T3500 my processor is 2.87ghz all came with nvidia NVS 420 and multiple 450 graphics card. Lots of ECC ram.
Well, since most traders LOSE money, the time spent building the computer is probably money SAVED. The old chestnut lives.
Thanks lots of good info. I am going to use the computer just for trading. I wont be surfing the internet and will have another computer for this. How much protection does the trading PC need, would you install anti virus on it?
I'm sorry, but you can't be serious ? Really ?!? The only computer that doesn't need anti-virus is one that is 100% permanently air-gapped, i.e. : • NO local network or internet connection, preferably permanently disabled via removal of hardware • NO CD/DVD drive • NO usage USB sticks The moment you have a vector is the moment you have a virus risk.