Instructions on How to Build My Own Computer
- 1). Choose a computer case style that matches your needs. If you are short on space, a slim desktop design is probably the best choice, but if you have more room, a tower case offers more flexibility and makes future upgrades easier to manage. Choose a case with a built-in power supply--this will make building the computer a lot easier.
- 2). Purchase a motherboard that supports the components you need in a system. For instance, if support for Firewire is important to you, choose a motherboard that supports that technology. If you plan to use multiple hard drives and optical drives, be sure the motherboard you choose has plenty of available connections. It is also a good idea to choose a motherboard with an integrated video card, network card and sound card. Choosing a motherboard with these necessary items integrated into the package makes building your own PC much simpler. The CPU will be built into the motherboard as well--be sure to look for the fastest CPU you can afford.
- 3). Insert the motherboard into the case and fasten it down with the included screws. Locate the memory slots on the motherboard and insert the memory modules into the slots. When building a new computer, it is always advisable to install as much memory as the motherboard will hold. The motherboard manufacturer will provide information about the maximum memory supported by the board.
- 4). Locate the hard drive bay on the case and slide the hard drive into place. Secure the hard drive with screws, and connect the cable from the back of the hard drive to the motherboard. Connect a power cable from the computer's power supply to the back of the hard drive. When choosing a hard drive, always buy the highest capacity drive you can afford. The price of storage has fallen sharply in recent years, and even large-capacity drives are often very affordable.
- 5). Find the bay for the CD or DVD drive and slide the drive into the bay. Secure the drive with screws and connect the drive cable to the drive and the system motherboard. Run a power cable from the power supply to the power input on the back of the drive.
- 6). Purchase a standard keyboard and mouse for your new PC. Be sure the keyboard and mouse you choose has USB connections and not old style PS/2 ones.
- 7). Choose a quality flat screen monitor for your computer. The prices have come down quite a bit, so you should be able to find a 17", 19" or even 21" monitor at an affordable price.
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