Building a simple cheap linux-box...help

[optimus prime]

I'm starting a company that will offer a web service to businesses, but I need to build a linux box so I can do the database/web programming locally.

I'm trying to keep this as cheap as possible, seeing that im a college student and have no money.

The problem is that I also need to be able to run windows on it for graphic apps and such.

Do you guys have any recommendations on hardware, or where to buy from?

All i need is
2gigs p4 or athlon
512 ram
60 gig hd
cdrw
net card
graphics card(its been so long since I worked with linux. Does linux have support for the cards that are coming out now, or should I just stick to onboard video.)

The worked with mandrake 8.1 - 8.3 few years back, but I kinda just stopped using it when I stopped programming for a while.

Also, what distribution would you recommend for web programming, and for someone whose not too knowledgeable about linux. I know some, but not A LOT.

Thank you guys so much.

[Gertrude]

www.newegg.com to buy stuff..

Nvidia cards are well supported..

Any distro should be fine for programming. Its all Linux under the hood.

[o0zi]

Could you go for some of the higher-end Walmart machines? I think there might be one with the specs you want running SuSe or something.

[TheCatMan]

I just got a new box with a Jetway motherboard, it was the cheapest in the shop and came with Linux drivers for all the onboard stuff. They're a bit of a pain to set up but it's a start :) What country are you in btw?

[juicelooser]

For a first time distro, I'd recommend Mandrake. I've tried both Mandrake and RedHat, and Mandrake was much easier to set up and get used to.

Although, it is mostly personal preference.

[BOFH1]

Try http://www.tcwo.com/ . They've got some good barebone-kit deals (with everything but monitor included), and good prices on most other parts as well. Plus, only 8 bucks to ship up to 150lbs of freight on FedEx Grnd (basically, an entire system including monitor). Always had reliable service from them.

[BaVinic]

you could just buyone of those Lindows units Walmart sells for 199.00 ( no floppy drive) and put red Hat or mandrake on that. dump the lindows though, it is crap.

BaVinic

[optimus prime]

Thanks for your help guys.

I -really- need to start developing, so I'm just going to buy this $400 dollar computer I found at curcuit city.

Later on, when I get the time, I'll put together a properly build box.