Learning how to build your own computer from scratch is fun, plus can save you money. And besides, there's always a feeling of pride after putting something together yourself. Now after looking at a PC and seeing cables and wires all over the place, you may have doubts and not feel up to the task, but that's OK. Actually it's quite simple. This page and the following pages will show you how to install all of the major parts with plenty of pictures and explanations. so put your mind at ease and relax. But before getting started, let's look at some important tips.
Preparations:
- To build your own computer from scratch know what you want to do before buying parts. Do you want to just surf the net, check email, or perform word processing and make spreadsheets? Or is multimedia your thing? Will you want to upgrade? How many hard drives/DVD drives do you want? Your needs should determine what you spend. You don't need to purchase an expensive sound card, video card or fancy motherboard if all you're going to do is surf the net. Whereas if a person is a serious gamer he'll need these things. Compare prices and select parts wisely.
- Also, make sure components are compatible. You don't want to order parts, only to find out after they arrive that the CPU and motherboard are not compatible. Again, do your homework!!!
- After you have the parts, don't start building just yet. Always look at the computer manual first. Pay particular attention to the motherboard's layout. Look where connectors are located. Computer cases contain USB, Firewire, and speaker ports on the front of the case. Some have memory card slots. All of these plug into the motherboard so know where they go. The same holds true for thehard drive light, power button, and reset switch. Although certain things about building PCs are the same, motherboards have different features that vary by manufacturer and model.Familiarizing yourself with the manual makes building go much faster.
- OK, now that you've browsed the manual, one more thing. Get rid of any static electricity you may have by using an anti-static wrist strap.If you don't have one, touch the metal part of the chassis (the case). Static electricity can damage the motherboard, so this is an important step.
Below are links to the individual steps to follow to build your PC.
Installing a Power Supply
Installing the Motherboard
Installing the CPU
Installing Memory
Installing Hard Drives
Installing DVD Drives
Installing Expansion Cards and Connecting the Front Panel
