how to assemble a pc

Tools needed to assemble a PC. Or put another way, don’t be afraid to search for more info while building your PC if you are uncomfortable. Please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Remember, this will take a little while. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. So you’ve decided to take the plunge and assemble your own desktop PC. : Connect the 8-pin EPS from the PSU through the cable routing hole to the EPS connector on the motherboard, usually located at the top portion of the motherboard, : Get the 24-pin cable from the PSU and slide it through the cable management hole to get to the 24-pin ATX port of the motherboard, usually located at the right side of the motherboard. Many prospective builders are often overwhelmed at the idea of assembling their own PC from scratch. : Remove the 2x PCIe slot covers with the help of the #2 Phillips screwdriver. There are 16 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Step 5: Screw the PCIe slot cover you just unscrewed to secure the rear end of the graphics card. We also carry, Case Components, Cards, Air & Water Cooling, Power Supplies, Video Cards, Controller Cards, and Sound Cards. When you’re done, make sure the computer is turned off and follow the steps below: Step 1: Plug the flash drive that has the OS installed in your computer. Do I need any book in order to programmer the PC ????? Here are some of the more popular motherboard manufacturer websites: As for GPUs, it is a little more straightforward since there are really only two viable competitors. Try to think ahead through the assembly process to determine what is the best order in which to build the machine. If needed, route the cables through the cable management holes to get to the SSD storage device. Required fields are marked *. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. NOTE: Your screen may flicker when installing the graphics card drivers so don’t panic when it does so. Your email address will not be published. Micro Center has the very best selection of BYOPC computer parts including, Core components, Cases, Motherboards, Computer Memory, Hard Drives & Storage, Computer Cases, Case Accessories, and Memory Configurators. Optical drives are optional and only required if you wish to read or write CDs, … When you’re done installing the motherboard with the CPU mount backplate, it’s time to install the cooler on the CPU. I built the best personal computer for my family! The SATA data pins are located at the lower right portion of the motherboard just below the 24-pin port. To prevent unwanted damage from ESD (electrostatic discharge), use a surface that isn’t metal– preferably, a wood or a glass surface. You should remember that not all cases have included fans. Step 2: Remove the 2x PCIe slot covers with the help of the #2 Phillips screwdriver. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. To be able to build your own desktop PC, you need to have the right tools. Some cases (like the one in. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Luis Guido P.O. I had to do my ICT homework which was about building a computer, so I really needed, "It was easy to understand. By using our site, you agree to our. : Move it to the top (further to the rear side) as a second exhaust fan and screw it in place. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. ", "Tips are great, but should have pictures to explain the how-to. To build a computer, start by grounding yourself with an antistatic wrist-strap cable to prevent electrostatic discharge. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. As such, you should follow its installation guide. The overall idea is to affix the backplate that comes with the CPU cooler (with the four pins) through the back of your motherboard, so you can mount the cooler in place later, installing the motherboard inside the case (. to refer to your case’s and your motherboard’s manual to identify which screw to use– or if you’re simply confused. Through his work, he wishes to help readers choose the best products and make the smartest investments. A product of such circumstances was building one pc over thirty years ago (AMD KD-400?). It’s very important to refer to your case’s and your motherboard’s manual to identify which screw to use– or if you’re simply confused. In particular, some of the high-end GPUs have large, dedicated coolers that can make it hard to squeeze into cases, even the standard ATX Full-tower cases. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. The size of the case will be based on how many drives bays and card slots it has, as well as the size and type of your motherboard. Gathering Your Components: Determine the function of the computer. – Needless to say, tying up the cables so it’ll look clean can be a challenging task. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. : Restart your computer after installation (or it may automatically do it for you) and you’re done! There’s more than one way to find the CPU fan slot: Installing a liquid CPU cooler follows the general process of installing the mounting plate first before attaching the heatsink onto the CPU. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Finally, install the hard drive and make sure the power supply is connected to all of the necessary components before connecting the monitor. Whatever your … Wash your hands before building a computer. : Locate the PCIe slot on your motherboard that is closest to your CPU. Step 3: Lay the case down and carefully lay your motherboard on top of the standoff screws as you line it up with the ports and respective holes in the I/O shield. In fact, I still have problems with this from time to time. These things go directly into your motherboard and is not designed to be placed in any drive bays. Building your own computer from scratch allows you to craft the perfect rig for your needs, but if you’re on a super-strict budget, a shiny, new, custom-built PC isn’t always feasible. on this side by screwing it in its respective place. : Open the setup file and follow the on-screen installation instructions. Is a heat sink the same as a CPU cooling fan, or does it come with it, or do I need to purchase it separately? Superb! A few relevant articles on wikiHow include. Here are some of the more popular motherboard manufacturer websites: Step 1.2: As for GPUs, it is a little more straightforward since there are really only two viable competitors. You need a heat sink to prevent the computer from overheating and shutting down automatically. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. AMD also manufactures the 2200G and 2400G processors with powerful integrated graphics, capable of some games at lower settings. If you build up static electricity on your body and a shock passes from your body to something like a CPU chip, that CPU chip is dead. For instance, part prices fluctuate a lot. Attach your power supply to the motherboard's power connectors. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Our mission is to provide you with great editorial and essential information to make your PC an integral part of your life. As mentioned above, you want to equalize the number of intake/exhaust to achieve quality airflow inside the case. You'll use this to connect the hard drive to the motherboard later. in the comment box during checkout. This build costs around $1000 but you can always make changes so it’ll fit your budget. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Step 4: Use the #2 Phillips screwdriver to tighten the screws that came with the case to secure the motherboard in. By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube. You may need to install and wire your case's fans before you can install any components. The overall idea is to affix the backplate that comes with the CPU cooler (with the four pins) through the back of your motherboard first so you can mount the cooler in place later after installing the motherboard inside the case (5. If you bought an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) edition of Microsoft Windows and you have a license sticker, you may want to attach the sticker on the side of the PC for future reference when Windows Setup asks for it. Note: You can expect to spend under $500 for most basic desktops. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. He has over two years of experience writing and editing technology-related articles. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. : Gently place the processor on top of the socket by matching the golden triangle located on the bottom-left corner of the AMD processor with the triangle on the socket. Processors typically come in quad-core, hexa-core or higher. An indicator on CPU and motherboard will show you the correct orientation. The graphics card should take up 1/3 of a gaming computer budget. And if we use the case from our example (Phanteks P400S ATX Mid Tower Case), we can put the Hitachi Ultrastar 7K3000 2TB HDD inside the hard drive bay found at the back of the case (not the rear). "Onboard Wi-Fi" (ensures that your computer will have wireless capabilities), Support for graphics cards if necessary (PCIe x16 slot). Be sure to select a case which can fit all of your components, including your hard drive. Maybe you want something cheaper, maybe you prefer AMD to Intel, maybe you want a smaller form factor case. Jack Lloyd is a Technology Writer and Editor for wikiHow. The GPU I/O ports should face out the back of the computer case. Further Reading: Best Graphics Card for Gaming. But what usually happens is that "the next one" is a rush job, and there's no time to find a photographer. Plug the hard drive's SATA cable into the SATA slot on the motherboard. Fan Installation section. When choosing the size of your PC here are some things to keep in mind. This article provided the level of insight for me to build the performance/cosmetic jet of my dreams. Successfully building a computer is largely contingent on defining your computer goals and budget, buying the right parts, and putting everything together in the correct order. ATX or mid-sized PCs are the most common builds and provide the largest compatibility options. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. What size PC should I build? Step 1: Push the latches on either end of the RAM slots on the motherboard. However, you might want to get different parts than what you choose. Further Reading: Best Power Supply for Gaming. During the next 3 steps, we will be outfitting the motherboard prior to installing it. Join the global Raspberry Pi community. As always, refer to your case manual if you’re confused or unsure where to store your storage devices. Some reputable hardware reviewers are Linus Tech Tips, Tom's Hardware or Gamers Nexus. Step 3: Take the graphics card and line it up with the PCIe slot closest to your CPU. Most articles like this are written like the readers already know all the terminology, "A general guide that provided enough information to know where to start and avoid most potential problems. Step 1: Connect the 8-pin EPS from the PSU through the cable routing hole to the EPS connector on the motherboard, usually located at the top portion of the motherboard, Step 2: Get the 24-pin cable from the PSU and slide it through the cable management hole to get to the 24-pin ATX port of the motherboard, usually located at the right side of the motherboard. Step 4: Connect the PCIe 6-pin connector from the PSU to the graphics card through the cable management holes. You can also download the ISO and, using Microsoft USB Download Tool software, create your own bootable installation flash drive if you have a spare. Installing the motherboard is kind of tricky. Moreover, you should also be patient enough and wait to snag the best deals online for your parts. Box 770871 Miami Florida 331777 [email protected],mail.com [email protected] (786)260-4676 Thankyou. Now that you’re sure you have a working computer, you can now tidy up the cables at the back and use the Velcro straps and zip ties to secure everything in place. Where can I get price comparisons for computer parts? This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. It's the biggest hardware launch in an age! So do that if you haven’t already or proceed and check which holes the cables should be routed to. Your average hard drive has a speed of 7200 RPM. : Line up the notch on the bottom of the memory with the notch in the RAM slot. To make sure you’re plugging the right cables to the right ports, refer to your motherboard installation manual. But since we included a, Cooler Master MasterLiquid Lite 240mm Liquid Cooler. Keep in mind you will need a product key if you wish to install a paid version of Windows. Click this link to download NVIDIA graphics card drivers, this link to download AMD graphics card drivers. We can also put the. Thanks to the team for taking the time to remember that memories of building sometimes just are not enough! Both tasks represent a balance act between power and dexterity. ", "The thermal paste tip was helpful. You probably have a general idea which cables go to which ports by now if you followed the very first step. He is technology enthusiast and an English teacher. Some power supplies have a built in 115/230V converter. Intel and AMD processors largely install the same way, but there are slight differences as covered below. The main part of computer is CPU i.e Computer chassis or System Unit, which houses several internal components, and the external components, including peripherals. You may find that the component is great for certain uses, but inappropriate for your own preferences. The SATA data pins are located at the lower right portion of the motherboard just below the 24-pin port. Building your own PC and need ideas on where to get started? wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Picking the right components for the build you need can be a daunting process at first, but once you dive in, you’ll see that it’s not … If you want to assemble the well-liked device, you should … Also avoid carpets. You can determine where the power supply is supposed to sit by looking for a missing section on the back of the case. The GPU I/O ports should face out the back of the computer case. To install the CPU, make sure the notch on the chip (one side of the CPU’s green PCB will have a small indent) matches the notch on the socket, and drop it in. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. You have a lot of small cords with sometimes very similar connectors all going to different places. This wikiHow teaches you how to build a desktop computer using custom parts. is semi-modular. Look for good reviews for your preferred product, both on the site from which you're considering purchasing it and elsewhere. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. All our computers are … Install Optical Drive 1. So, if it only comes with 1 fan, then your best bet is to place it at the rear to act as an exhaust. If you want a smaller hard drive with faster data retrieval, you can instead purchase a solid state drive (SSD). To learn more about which components to buy and where to buy them, read on! wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Now that everything’s in place, it’s time to hook the cables to the motherboard ports. Step 3: Gently push both sides of the memory into the slot. Process of dis-assembly and re-assembly of a computer at C.R. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f0\/Build-a-Computer-Step-1-Version-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Build-a-Computer-Step-1-Version-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f0\/Build-a-Computer-Step-1-Version-5.jpg\/aid323368-v4-728px-Build-a-Computer-Step-1-Version-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"

\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. After building my PC with all new parts, I plugged it in but only got power for a second then nothing, what went wrong? Aftermarket heat sinks may have brackets that need to be attached underneath the motherboard. Taking the, : Unscrew the front panel and 2 side panels using the #2 Phillips screwdriver, : Place the screws in a bowl or a mini magnetic parts tray, : Remove the panels and place them on a safe surface or just put them back inside the case box. Installing the motherboard is kind of tricky. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. : Push the latches on either end of the RAM slots on the motherboard. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Thankfully, if you are uncertain about how to do a particular step, there are a lot of resources. For a desktop PC, you should make sure to pick a desktop distro, one where the company/organisation has desktop users in mind, e.g. Then, attach the processor and RAM to the motherboard, hook it up to the power supply, and attach the heat sink. Step 6: Follow the instructions indicated to complete the OS installation. After installing the storage devices, it’s time to install the graphics card– the heart of every gaming PC. This obviously lacks many common Windows features and most software native to Windows, so most software, including games, so you will likely want to get Windows 10 eventually. : Slide the spring-loaded retention arm out and up. You can often buy such parts at a heavily discounted price for little to no change in function. Once the standoffs are installed, place the motherboard in the case, push it up against the backplate, and secure it with screws. 12. But the thought of piecing together all the components yourself can be intimidating. , so you shouldn’t worry about a thing if it flies off. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Step 1.1: Head over to the motherboard manufacturer’s website and download the respective motherboard drivers. ", "A guide that talks about everything from budget to assembly, with countless useful tips & warnings. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. . Nearly all Intel CPUs have integrated graphics, so you don’t need a dedicated card if you’re planning to use the computer for office work, web browsing email, and a little bit of online gaming. If not, you might have bought the wrong motherboard for your CPU. : Head over to the motherboard manufacturer’s website and download the respective motherboard drivers. Some components will come with protective plastic on them so they aren’t scratched up. Don't write off used parts, especially if the parts are listed as "Like New" or are in new condition. Step 2: Place the PSU so that its exhaust is blowing out of the case. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Before you even unbox the CPU, be aware that you should never touch the bottom where the pins are; it’s always best to hold it by its sides. Building a computer from scratch gives you the perfect machine for your needs, but it can be daunting the first time around. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Note: Some motherboards, like the Phanteks Eclipse P400s, have pre-installed motherboard standoffs for ATX sized boards while some don’t. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Now every computer has CPU , MONITOR/LCD, Keyboard and Mouse, as seen in the below picture. Typically, AMD offers better value. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Many cases will have a panel which either slides back into place or screws onto the side of the case. enough and wait to snag the best deals online for your parts. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. It should just drop in. There will usually be on-screen instructions aiding you with installing your OS. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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