Getting started mining is no easy task - what operating system? Are you using CPU or gpu or fpga (most of which are nearly obsolete) or did you happen to get your hands on an asic? Either way some details about what your using would be helpful!
That said - there is more to bitcoin than mining and more to mining than bitcoin - good luck!!
I just have a standard CPU, I can add more graphics cards or whatever. Windows 7... I can run a virtual Linux machine or get one physical one if that is a better option to.mine.
What do I need to buy budget is less than 300.