How to Build a Computer

Step by Step Guide in Building a Computer

Gadget Specs PH August 2, 2018

1 857 5 minutes read

NOTE: This guide uses a Pentium 4, Windows XP computer as an example. Though the computer being use here is old, the information are still the same on how one can build their own computer.

The how to build a computer tutorial will deal with a step-by-step guide on how to build a computer. How to build a computer shows you how to assemble a 2.7 GHz Pentium 4 PC that includes a Socket 478 motherboard, 80GB hard drive, DVD burner, video card, network card, and a sound card. The peripherals include an optical mouse, 19″ monitor, 5.1 surround sound speakers and a keyboard.

Manufacturer’s web sites and the documentation that you receive with your computer components are always good sources for information regarding installation procedures and information about specific components. The pictures and procedures shown here are drawn from the actual assembly of the computer described above. Let’s get started.

Advantages of How to Build a Computer

Building your own computer from hand picked parts can be a fun, money saving experience even for a first time builder. The whole process can offer tremendous satisfaction and reward. Knowledge is king. The knowledge and practical know how gained in researching parts, reading documentation and assembling the PC can be enormously useful. You will have total control over the quality, brand and features of each component in the computer. Your new technical competence will make it easy to upgrade your PC in the future.

Chances are if you buy a new computer from a major manufacturer that it will not come with an original copy of Windows XP. New computers are usually preloaded with XP and what you get is a restore disk or CD. This is all well and good, but the software will not work for any other brand of computer.

When repair time or upgrade time rolls around, you will find out that a lot of the components the major manufacturers use in the construction of their PCs are proprietary. You can only purchase parts from them. An example of this is Dell. The power supply in their desktop computers is proprietary and is even wired different than a standard ATX power supply.

How to build a computer takes you off of this dead-end road. You own the software and it can be used for upgrades and future computer builds. The hardware that comprises your new PC is standardized and can be readily replaced with off the shelf components if need be.

Parts Selection for How to Build a Computer

The two most important considerations when selecting components to build your own computer are compatibility and functionality. You should give the most thought to the motherboard. Everything on a computer connects to the motherboard and it follows that it is the most important part. Take some time to decide which MB is best for your needs and budget.

All other components should be selected with the motherboard compatibility in mind. That includes the processor. It will be the second most important part you select.

Make doubly sure you you will receive documentation on all parts you purchase. This is especially important for the motherboard. Most of the time the manufacturer’s Web site will have more information than the printed documentation that comes with a component. Be sure you check there too.

Essentials for most computers are: motherboard, CPU(processor), RAM(random access memory), hard drive, optical drive, case, power supply, video card, keyboard, mouse and monitor. Also, if not integrated on the motherboard, a sound card and networking card.

The selection of each of these components requires careful consideration as to function, compatibility and your budget. After you pick out the motherboard, processor, and memory, select the case. Make sure the motherboard and case use the ATX form factor. This standardizes the size of the components and power connections.

How to Build a Computer Tip:

We recommend that you don’t skimp on the case. This is one component that you will have with you awhile. Get something you can live with. If it looks good so much the better. Aluminum cases are nice because they weigh less. Look for features such as multiple fan locations, removable motherboard tray and tool-less drive bays.

How to Build A Computer Tip:

DO NOT buy a motherboard with integrated graphics. You can do much better by selecting a MB with an AGP slot or the newer PCI express slots. It’s a lot easier to upgrade your video with a dedicated slot plus you will control the graphics quality. Sound and LAN are a couple of features that are okay to buy on board. Make sure you can disable them if you want to add a card in their place. Opt for dual channel memory on the motherboard. It’s a great way to boost pc performance.

How to Build a Computer Tip:

Do buy a DVD that can read/write instead of a CD/RW. For only a few dollars more, you can add a DVD drive that reads and writes both CDs and DVDs. The 4.7 GB DVD media is cheap and is much larger than the 700 MB CDs.

How to Build a Computer Tip:Buy as much RAM as you can comfortably afford. It is the most important thing you can do to boost the performance of your computer. As a minimum we would recommend 512 MB.

How to Build a Computer Final Preparations

When all parts have been purchased, prepare a well lit roomy spot to assemble your computer. Reserve some time so that you can proceed with out interruptions. Before you start prepare by reading the support documentation and be certain you understand all facets of the assembly process. If documentation doesn’t answer your questions, find out from another source such as the manufacturer’s Web site or a knowledgeable friend.

How to Build a Computer & ESD

An important consideration in building your own computer is electro-static discharge or ESD for short. Computer parts, especially the motherboard, CPU and RAM are very sensitive to the sudden voltage surges that ESD causes. If your home or apartment has carpet then you need to be extra careful in handling your components. Remember walking across the carpet and getting zapped as you reached for the door knob? Well, that’s over 4000 volts of electricity if you can see and hear it! This is death to the micro-circuits in computer components. To combat this problem either wear a anti-static wrist strap or touch the computer case before handling any components. We would recommend that you purchase a set of computer tools that contains a anti-static wrist strap and use it while assembling your computer. It’s easy to forget about ESD while your in the middle of the assembling the PC. You can damage a component with ESD and you may not even know it. So be careful.

How to Build a Computer Tools

To be quite honest, We have built many a computer with no more than a Phillips head screwdriver. You will probably want to have on hand a set of screwdrivers(small,large,slot,and Phillips). For the first time computer builder, an anti-static wrist strap is a must. Also, a pair of needle-nosed pliers are handy for that occasional hard to retrieve screw and straightening bent pins. Be sure and leave your PC parts in their protective ESD bags until you are ready to install them.

How to Build a Computer Dos and Don’ts

DO NOT work inside the PC while the power is on. Even if you have the computer turned off, unplug it from the wall if you are working on it.
DO NOT ever open the power supply and try to repair it. If it’s not putting out the proper voltages, replace it.
DO check your case fans on a monthly basis for crud buildup. Fans lose there cooling efficiency when loaded down with dirt. Make sure the vents are kept clear as well. Air flow is critical for cooling.
DO NOT ever open the case of a CRT monitor. Dangerous voltages lurk inside even when it is unplugged. Refer service to a qualified technician.
DO make sure you have an adequate power supply for your computer. See how to determine wattage for power supply for pc.

Okay, it’s time to get started building your own computer!

Step 1- How to Buy the Computer Parts

Step 2- How to Prepare the Computer Case

Step 3- How to Prepare the Motherboard for Install

Step 4- How to Install CPU on the Motherboard

Step 5- How to Install Memory on the Motherboard

Step 6- How to Install Motherboard in Case

Step 7- How to Connect Front Panel Switches and Lights

Step 8- How to Hook Up USB and Firewire

Step 9- How to Install Video Card

Step 10- First Boot

Step 11- How to Install Hard Drive