Rules on How to Build Your Own Computer

Having personally built 1000's of computers and being a computer engineer for a computer manufacturing plant I have learned a few ticks for building your own computer that you may find useful.

1. The first step is to pick the parts you want. You need to ask yourself what you will be using this computer for. If it is gaming you need to make sure you have a good processor, video card and lots of memory. If it is just for surfing the web and checking email you can build a system for as little as $300.
2. Once you have chosen all the parts you want ensure they are all compatible. Start with the motherboard and see what type of Ram is recommended and what processor it supports. Making sure all components will work with each other before you buy them can save lots of headaches on the back end.
3. Always purchase the computer parts from reputable sellers. Buying over Ebay may be cheaper but make sure they are a reputable seller and that your part has a warranty.
4. Now that you have all your computer parts it is time to build. Never work in an area that has carpet and always wear cotton when handling computer parts. This will help cut down on ESD damage. If possible purchase an ESD strap. They run around 10 bucks and are well worth it.
5. Place the motherboard in the computer and follow the manual for securing the motherboard to the case. Follow the diagram that came with the motherboard and plug all the switches in place (Power switch, reset switch ect..). Place the processor in place and ensure you lock it. Install the heat sink per-instructions. (Be sure that your processor has thermal grease on it before installing the heat sink)
6. Install the memory onto the system board.
7. Install the power supply and plug it into the motherboard. Be sure and plug in the P4 connector if your board has it.
8. If your computer has onboard video do not install the card yet. Instead power the computer on to see if it boots up. The whole idea behind this is to see if there is a problem. This will save you much time later on if there is one because you have fewer items to trouble shoot. BE SURE TO UNPLUG THE COMPUTER
9. Now that you know you computer works install the video card and the hard drive.
10. Boot your computer up again to see if it recognizes the hard drive and that you have video. BE SURE TO UNPLUG THE COMPUTER
11. Install your other optical devices. (CD/DVD)
12. Boot the system up to make sure it detects all drives. BE SURE TO UNPLUG THE COMPUTER
13. Install the rest of your PCI/PCIE/AGP devices. At this point and time do not install any USB devices in the system
14. Boot your computer up and load that operating system. You are good to go.

 

For troubleshooting tips or if you have any questions join our free computer repair forum at http://www.windowvistarepair.com . This members board is absolutely free and you are sure to get all the do it yourself tips for any issue you have.