How to Build a Gaming Machine

Gaming machines provide hours of fun and relaxation.

Building a gaming machine will enable you to play your favorite PC games without spending a lot of cash at a PC shop or big box retailer. It's also rewarding to build a computer piece by piece and see it as a final product. Gaming machines require complex and sometimes pricey components, such as graphics cards and higher-level CPUs. Building a gaming machine allows choices in component brands, speeds and prices. This enables you to make a custom machine capable of running your gaming software.

Things You'll Need

• Computer case
• Motherboard
• CPU (Central Processing Unit)
• PC memory
• Hard Drive
• CD/DVD optical drive
• Graphics card
• Monitor
• Mouse
• Keyboard
• Gaming controller
• Speakers
• Operating system
• Gaming software for PC
• Hard drive cables
• CD drive cables
• Exhaust fans

Instructions

Assembling the Components

1. Dismantle the computer case by removing the side covers. Install the power supply (typically installed at the top back section of the case) with four screws. Run the power cables for easy access to help plug in the other components. Keep them neat and grouped together for adequate airflow.

2. Install the CPU and memory onto the motherboard. The motherboard should be laid on a non-conductive surface to avoid static shock. Install the CPU in the designated slot and place the fan on top of the CPU as instructed. The memory sticks click in a designated slot, and are designed to be placed in one direction. Do not use excessive force when installing the CPU and memory units.

3. Install the motherboard into the gaming machine case. The case will have pre-drilled screw marks that will align with the motherboard to allow you to secure it in the case. The necessary hardware is always included in the motherboard box.

4. Place the CD/DVD drive into the front of the case, replacing a door cover. This allows the CD/DVD to sit flush in the case. The hard drive can be installed in cages inside the computer case in the bottom front. Place four screws in each component to ensure a secure fit.

5. Place the graphics card in its designated slot by gently sliding the card into the correct position and applying light force until the card is completely inserted in the slot. The ports of the card face the back of the computer, and one or two screws are needed to secure the card to the computer casing.

6. Make the power connections by ensuring all components have a direct connection to the power supply. The motherboard and graphics card have a dedicated power connection. The hard drive and optical drive use a standard molex connector.

7. Remove any wire clutter or non-essential materials such as unused metal trays found in certain computer cases. This will ensure proper airflow for the gaming machine.

Installing Software and Running Games

1. Make all connections for the mouse, keyboard, monitor and speakers. Hook in the power cord for the gaming machine.

2. Install the operating system by placing the CD into the optical drive and follow the on-screen instructions.

3. Update the computer's software and install any necessary drivers and patches. This is generally done automatically by the operating system, but it's necessary to do before attempting to run any gaming software. Search the manufacturer's website for the graphics card driver. These are constantly updated and the newest drivers will ensure the best performance. Avoid using the packaged CD drivers. They are typically out of date.

4. Install games by placing the game's CD or DVD into the optical drive. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the game. Gaming machines are more elaborate than typical computer builds, so observe the system when running games for the first few hours. Check for such things as proper airflow out of the back of the case, as well as stability while running the game.

Tips & Warnings

• Gaming machines differ from standard computers due to the power of the components, namely the CPU and graphics card. A result of this power is extra heat, so ensuring proper airflow will keep the system cooler, allowing it to run at optimal stability as well as prolonging the life of the machine. Installing exhaust fans in the rear of the computer case will assist in removing warm stagnant air.

• Planning is necessary to build a gaming machine. The parts you buy must be compatible with one another and capable of performing the function you require of them.

• Patience is a must. Building a gaming machine will not always turn out as planned. If pressing the power button doesn't cycle the system, its possible a connection wasn't made or the power supply is switched off.

• Computer components are sensitive to static electricity. A quick way to discharge static before a build is to touch bare metal on the computer case. This will ensure that static won't discharge to the expensive gaming components.

• Be gentle. Computer components are fragile. If a component isn't fitting with little effort, make sure its being installed in the proper direction or orientation. Never force a part to fit

References

• Maximum PC: How to Build the Ultimate PC, Step by Step