How to Build Your Own PC Motherboard

Building your own PC has its advantages. You don't have to worry about using proprietary hardware. You can also install your own software instead of getting stuck with software that comes with a pre-built computer. There are, however, some disadvantages to building your own PC. You won't have technical support or warranties. To make this project easier, consider getting a motherboard that has audio and video integrated on it. Purchase SATA (serial advanced technology attachment) hard drives. Keep all your manuals on hand because you will be referring to them. This article will tell you how to build your own PC motherboard.

Things You'll Need

• Computer case CPU Motherboard RAM (memory module) Floppy and hard drive CD-ROM drive Keyboard and mouse Monitor System CD disk Operating system disk Device drivers Drive cables

Instructions

How to Build a PC

1. Open and inspect the computer case.
   Remove your case. Check for the following items: chassis screws, metal standoffs and washers. Most likely, they will be in a plastic bag. Verify that the power supply unit is securely connected to the case. Check that the power switch is securely connected to the power supply.

2. Install the CPU and RAM modules in the motherboard.
   Carefully remove the motherboard from the plastic bag. Set it on a flat hard surface, preferably wooden. Look for the ZIF (zero insertion force) socket on the motherboard. Pull up the lever to unlock the socket. Insert the CPU by aligning Pin 1of the chip with the ZIF's Pin 1. Lock the socket by closing the lever. Insert the memory module by aligning it with the pin array of the slot.

3. Install the motherboard in the case.
   Screw the metal standoffs into the holes of the case. The metal standoffs will stick out because they will prevent the motherboard from touching the case. Place the motherboard inside by aligning its holes with the metal standoffs of the case. Install screws into each metal standoff so that the motherboard is secured. Verify that the motherboard is not touching the case at all.

4. Install the drives in the drive bays.
   Look at the bays in your case. Install the floppy drive, hard drive and CD-ROM drive by matching the holes on these components with the holes on these bays.

5. Connect wires to the motherboard.
   Connect the case's wires to the components, such as the CPU, PC speaker, hard drive or CD-ROM drive. Usually, these wires will have labels that identify the components they must connect to. Connect the ribbon cable from your floppy drive to the motherboard.

6. Configure the PC.
   Connect your mouse, keyboard, and monitor to your system. Turn on the monitor and system. Insert the system's bootable CD disk in the CD-ROM drive. Press the keys to enter the CMOS (Configuration Management Operating System) setup menu.

7. Install the operating system.
   Now you are ready to install the operating system. Just follow the instructions on the screen. This step may take awhile to complete.

Tips & Warnings

• Store all of your documentation where you can quickly access it.

• Touch an unpainted metal object to ground yourself. The motherboard and components are sensitive to static. Most electrically sensitive hardware comes in static bags, that are designed to protect electronics from static electricity shock. Leave your hardware in these bags until you are ready to install them.

Resources

• PC Mech
• Tech Report