There is a common misconception that building a computer is egregiously difficult. Though manufacturing the specific parts used in computers requires highly technical and fully sterilized facilities, it is comparably easy to put these components together to create a computer. In most cases, it proves significantly cheaper to build your own computer rather than pay another business to do it on your behalf and ship the finished product to your door or buy it at a local store with an inevitable price hike.
Start by Selecting the Core Components
Take a look at the core component market for PCs and you will find an abundance of parts to choose from. Take some time to familiarize yourself with these parts before building your first computer. In general, half a dozen core computing components exist. The brain of the computer is referred to as the processor. The processor crunches the data. Your computer will also require a motherboard. This component is the machine’s backbone as it contains essential chips along with a circuit board in which the RAM and processor are positioned.
Speaking of RAM, it is of the utmost importance for your new computer. RAM is storage that is temporary, allowing for short-term tasks to be completed. Step it on up to faster RAM and your computer will prove more efficient yet the boost in RAM will also cost more money. Additional storage is available in the form of solid-state drives and hard drives. These two components provide long-term storage.
The power supply is the component that converts power from your home or office’s electrical system to fuel the computer’s processor and motherboard. Determine the computer components before selecting the power in order to ensure the supply you select proves sufficient. Finally, there is the computer case. The case is the shell or exterior encasing that protects the items detailed above. The case you select should specifically suit your selected power supply, motherboard and other components.
Embrace the Challenge of Building Your PC
Search YouTube for computer assembly guides and you will find a litany of helpful tutorials. Most computer builders recommend assembling the motherboard before anything else. This challenge involves the installation of the RAM and the processor. Heat sink is also necessary to ensure everything stays cool amidst demanding use. Discharge static buildup when putting these parts together. Furthermore, you should perform the assembly on a wood table or another non-metallic surface.
Be Careful With the Case
Take a moment to analyze the layout of the case to determine exactly where the hard drive must be positioned, the proper position for the power supply, etc. The screws provided with the case hold everything together. As an example, four screws will likely be necessary to hold the power supply in place.
Mind Those Cables
There are all sorts of cables involved with computer assembly. As an example, your power supply unit might be fully modular, meaning you choose the cables necessary. PSUs have an array of cables. If there are unused power connections, they will end up dangling within the case. Furthermore, the motherboard also has cables to boot. There are unique headers for the specific plugs along the board. Take a close look at the manual for each pin groupings’ function and location.
The diminutive pins that connect the cable to the power buttons along the exterior of the case must be plugged in in a specific manner. Hook up the fan for the case with a motherboard header and you will be ready to boot up your new computer and start typing up a storm. If all goes as planned, your computer’s components will properly agree with one another and the machine will work exactly would had you bought it at a local store for significantly more money than required with DIY assembly.