How to Build a PC & the Parts Needed

Don't be afraid of all the cables.

Building your own PC allows you to make a computer that specifically meets your needs. The advantage of building your own PC is that money can be saved by only including the components you want without any additional cost from unnecessary components. The parts needed to build a PC can be purchased over the Internet or in electronics stores.

Things You'll Need

• Case
• Power supply
• Processor
• Motherboard
• Graphics card (if one is not built into the motherboard)
• RAM
• Hard disk drive
• DVD drive
• Keyboard
• Mouse
• Monitor
• Anti-static band
• Computer repair tool set

Instructions

Planning

1. Decide on what you need to accomplish with your computer, such as gaming or Internet browsing. It is important to clearly define what you plan on using your PC for to pick the appropriate components.

2. Make a budget. Computers are expensive and you don't want to put yourself in the situation where you keep spending money on unplanned additions. Set aside a specific amount of money to build your computer and stick to that amount.

3. Pick your processor path. AMD and Intel are the two choices available to consumers looking to build their own PCs. The processor you choose will affect other components you purchase so the decision must be made early on. AMD and Intel both offer processors that span a wide price range so the decision between the two comes down to personal preference. Look for sales and try to get the best deal possible. When it comes to speed, choose the best processor that fits within your budget with the understanding that gaming requires a faster processor than Internet browsing.

Compile the Components

1. Make a list of the components needed based on the planning you did earlier. At a minimum you will need a case, power supply, processor, motherboard, graphics card (if one is not built into the motherboard), RAM, hard disk drive, DVD drive, keyboard, mouse and monitor.

2. Check the compatibility of your components before making any final purchasing decisions. Remember that Intel processors require Intel-compatible motherboards, and specific motherboards require specific types of RAM.

3. Buy your components. You will get the best deal on your components if you buy off the Internet, however should something go wrong with your order it can be difficult to exchange or return Internet purchases.

Assemble the Computer

1. Put the anti-static band around your wrist before assembling any components. This will help prevent static shocks that can damage sensitive components.

2. Remove all your components from their packaging and lay them out on a clean work surface.

3. Assemble your computer starting with installing the power supply then motherboard in the case. From there install the processor and other components. Refer to the documentation that accompanied your components for specific information regarding where to plug in cables.

4. Attach the power cord, monitor, keyboard, mouse and power up the computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Double check all connections before turning your computer on for the first time.

• When installing the processor fan follow the manufacturers directions to avoid overheating problems.

• Building your own computer can save you money, however the trade off is that you are on your own when things go wrong. If you are not a technical person an off-the-shelf computer with warranty may be a better option.

Resources

• Toms Hardware