One of the best ways to get an ideal experience out of a new computer is to build it yourself. It isn’t actually all that hard to build a computer, but it can be a daunting prospect for those who have never done so on their own. Fortunately, you can radically simplify the process by following the advice below.
Know Your Price Range
The biggest pitfall that most novice computer builders have is pricing. It’s really hard to know what’s the right price to pay for computer parts if you’ve never built one before, so do a little research on your own. Give yourself a ceiling, and then start looking at how realistic that ceiling might be. You’re not going to build a top-end gaming PC for under a five hundred dollars, for example, nor do you need to spend four figures to get something that you’re just going to use for social media.
Preparation
It’s always important to have a general idea of what you’re going to be doing before you actually do it. It is essential to have the proper tools with you when building a PC. Before you start choosing your parts, make sure you have a Philips head screwdriver for screws, torque screwdrivers for the motherboard stand-offs, and a static scrap/mat for your workplace. When working with PC components, it is extremely important to use anti-static straps as to not shock and of the electronics.
Make sure you have a proper workspace to assemble your PC. A rubber/anti-static mat is not only always helpful in protecting the shock-sensitive nature of the components, but could also protect your case from any scratches, whereas wood/countertop may scratch it. Keep your workspace clean and organized as to make sure you don’t lose a screw or standoff. Once you are prepared, you can choose your parts!
Prioritize Your Parts
As you build your computer, you’re going to want to make sure that you get the right parts and that those parts are compatible with one another. Your first choice should probably be your case. It will be the shell holding and protecting all of your components. Second, your motherboard, as that’s going to play a very big role in the type of processor and the type of RAM that you’re going to be able to use. Your next step is to find a good processor – generally the most powerful one that you can afford. From there, you’ll want to add RAM and (for gamers or graphic artists) a good GPU.
There are plenty of other options that you’ll want to look at, too. A good power supply that’s sufficient for your hardware is a much, as is the right kind of cooling solutions. Don’t forget about getting the right kind of storage media, and any optical drives that you still feel are important. Prioritize the parts above, but don’t feel bad about spending money on those below either.
Watch Tutorials
Don’t feel like you have to figure everything out by yourself. Watch a few Youtube tutorials, prioritizing those who are using parts similar to those you’ve chosen for yourself. While putting the individual parts together really isn’t that much harder than working with LEGO, it’s always nice to have a visual aid for what you’re doing. It’s usually recommended that you watch one of these tutorials before you get started so you have a rough idea of what to do, and then to watch more if and when you run into any problems with your build.
Take it Slow
Once you’re comfortable with the process, you can start building. This is absolutely something you don’t want to rush, as doing so can cause you to break parts or to miss a step. Instead, put in one part at a time, double-check to make sure that it is connected correctly, and then move on to the next.
Typically speaking, you’re going to start with installing your CPU and your heat sink. Make sure to line up the connections correctly and to just a use a dab of thermal paste. Once that’s done, you can slot in the ram and then place the motherboard inside your case. From there, it’s really just a matter of attaching parts in the right place and making sure all of your connections are set.
It really isn’t all that hard to build a computer. Pay attention to your budget and the parts you want, watch tutorials if you feel unsure about something, and take your time when you actually start the build process. If you’re precise, you’ll be able to put together a great new PC in no time. Visit CPROU or give us a call at (636) 442-2776, we’d love to help build you a PC!
Hi, My name is Josh Giesing. I am the Operations Manager at Computer PRO Unltd. In my free time, I enjoy reading and have a passion for learning.