How to Build a Cheap Barebones PC
Barebones PCs remove much of the complexity of shopping for PC components and simplify the building process. The act of building a barebones PC on the cheap can be a rewarding and educational experience for those who want to put together a business or productivity-based machine or for novices who lack the confidence to build an entire PC on their own. Many barebones units feature onboard audio and video as well as internal networking options, which will vastly reduce the cost of the finished system.
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Things You'll Need
- Barebones PC unit, as determined by the reader (Section 2)
- Flat-head screwdrivers, Phillips screwdrivers, Allen wrenches, or other tools required by component manufacturers' manuals (Section 2)
- Varied components, as determined by the reader (Section 2)
Instructions
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Choose Barebones Unit and Other Hardware
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1
Select a bare-ones unit. Determine what features and how much power you want. Figure out what the primary purpose of your computer will be -- multimedia, productivity or gaming. This step requires a great deal of research.
Take your time and choose the right motherboard; the motherboard will determine what kind of processor running at what clock speed, how much RAM, and other build options.
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2
Choose a processor brand and speed based on the specifications of the motherboard you've selected. AMD-based motherboards and barebones packages cost less than Intel-based motherboards. Choose AMD unless you are building a computer that requires more power (particularly for games). Always check for benchmarks in programs that you will be running to help determine your processor needs.
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3
Purchase the amount and correct type of memory for your motherboard. Always check your motherboard specifications prior to making a purchase. You'll need at least 2 GB RAM for Windows Vista and Windows 7.
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4
Select the additional components you'll need. These include a hard drive (make sure you have enough capacity), optical drive, video card (if you do not have on-board graphics), and any additional components you wish to add.
Putting Together the Computer
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5
Gather all components and any tools required. In most cases, you will only need a Phillips screwdriver for securing mounted drives and cards and for attaching the case panel. If your case is screwless, you may not need any tools to complete your build. Read all instructions, however, prior to building the unit to ensure that you have all tools required. Install the CPU and its heatsink/fan according to specifications. You will likely need to remove a CPU insert that ships with the motherboard prior to inserting the CPU into the socket.
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6
Insert the memory sticks into their slots and lock them into place.
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Mount the hard drive according to the case specifications. Connect the drive to the motherboard's appropriate port and to the case's power supply. Follow the same procedure to install the optical disk drive, if present.
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8
Ensure that all connections are secure and that you have installed all components. Close the case and fasten any screws or locks. Attach any input devices, such as keyboards and mice.
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9
Plug in the computer and follow BIOS instructions. You can install an operating system once you have configured the BIOS.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure you have a valid operating system installation disk when putting together your computer. Buy used components from sources like eBay or salvage old hard drives and input devices from older computers to drive down the cost of the build. Set a fixed budget prior to selecting a barebones unit. Some cases require screws to mount drives, while others do not. Always read the manual to ensure you have proper tools at hand prior to beginning the physical build.
Wear an Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) bracelet or use an ESD mat when you are ready to put together the computer. Otherwise, you can ruin computer components before using them.
