[A Computer Building Guide.....by Elbatrop1] -
A Computer Building Guide.....by Elbatrop1
Discuss A Computer Building Guide.....by Elbatrop1
Posted by: Elbatrop1
[b]Elbatrop1's Computer Building Guide[/b]
So you want to build a computer? Good for you! Many agree that a custom-built computer is more reliable and gives better performance per dollar than pre-built computers.
[b]Where do you start?[/b]
The first thing you need to do is find out what the computer is going to be used for. Common build-types to Tech-Forums are: Overclocking-Gaming, Regular-Gaming, Upper Office, and Entry-Level Office Computers. Of course there are variations on these types of builds, but most follow these formats. These different types of computers all use different types/quality of hardware. It is important to choose appropriate hardware for each kind of build, so you don’t waste money or get an underperforming machine.
[b]Do Your Homework[/b]
After deciding what kind of computer to build, its time for some research. A new computer can cost anywhere between $200 and upwards of $3000 (more if you get really crazy). If you are spending that much money, you might as well make sure you do it right.
Do homework by searching Tech-Forums for computer builds with a similar budget, and go to websites such as [url]www.anandtech.com[/url] [url]www.xbitlabs.com[/url] and [url]www.tomshardware.com[/url] for hardware reviews.
[b]Choosing Parts for your new computer[/b]
Ok, now you know some of the basics of computer parts and perhaps know some parts to avoid, which brand names are good, etc. Now it is time to choose the parts to your computer. This section will focus on some considerations for you as you build your computer.
One common source of confusion is the prices of similar products. For example, one 512 MB stick of RAM can cost between $50 and $250. People may find them asking themselves what the difference between two similar looking parts, but very different prices. When similar parts have very different prices, this is where your choice of the type of computer is vital. Expensive parts are normally intended for Overclocking or Gaming computers, while the cheaper parts are normally intended for Office Computers.
Brand names of parts is another thing that should be considered when building a computer. Just like many other things, brand names may determine the reliability and performance of a part. Some manufacturers just choose to make products in favor of quality, while some in the favor of value, and some are in between somewhere. The key here is matching your needs with the appropriate budget and performance needs. This is also where your research comes in handy. Without research you would never know that a certain part is prone to problems.
Another thing to consider, while building, is upgradeability. By the way computers go, in a year or so, the one you build will be out of date. Choose parts that have room for expansion and easy replacement. Again, research is important here.
One more thing to consider is your performance needs. Remember when you picked out which computer type you were building? That is defining your performance needs. Someone who uses a computer for word processing, email, and web browsing will not need a high-end video card. On the other hand, video cards are the most important part of the computer when it comes to gaming.
[b]Checklist for a computer build:[/b]
CPU
Motherboard
RAM
Video Card
Hard Drive
Optical Drive
Power Supply
Case
Speakers
Monitor
Mouse
Keyboard
Operating System
I wont say which CPU, Motherboard, etc to pick. That’s what your research should have told you. Just make sure you have everything on that list, and you should be all set.
Hopefully that helps you new computer builders! Now that you have read this and followed the directions, you should be ready to post and ask specific questions!!!
Posted by: JDGreen92086
May want to add some more stuff to this. Cpu cores, temperature ranges, uhhh..... maybe explain a bit about matching compenents. Like pins. A few extra things you could put in there. Maybe even make an in depth walkthrough of building a pc or something along those lines.
Posted by: DJ-CHRIS
We already have a guide for CPU cores, I will write Intel core's in for it soon, than it will be a sticky ;)
Their's enough in depth walkthourg's already on other websites
Posted by: vaderpro
Nice elbatrop, once again you are very helpful/resourceful. Maybe add heatsink/thermal paste for gamers?
Posted by: Chase
Very good. With revisions and added "tidbits" it could be great.
::-Chase-::
Posted by: dhw200
Jesus christ, thats a long spam note.
Sorry that your thread got hijacked, Elbatrop
Posted by: Qiranworms
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by dhw200 [/i]
[B]Jesus christ, thats a long spam note.
Sorry that your thread got hijacked, Elbatrop [/B][/QUOTE]
Deleted all 1733 words of it.
Posted by: gimli of gloin
i think i missed somthing?
Posted by: PZEROFGH
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by gimli of gloin [/i]
[B]i think i missed somthing? [/B][/QUOTE]
im guessing someone messed up the post, and they had to fix it...?
Posted by: emailhosting
In the end, will you have saved any money by building your own computer?:confused:
Posted by: PZEROFGH
yes you will, and you will have quality parts to go with them. just try building one at [url]www.dell.com[/url] and build that exact samething at [url]www.newegg.com[/url] you will find a big difference
Posted by: harley3344
just built dells top o the line gaming computer on newegg (trying to match the componits, I love how dell doesn't have brand names) and there cost was 4150 or close and i built a rather generously priced intel :( for $3,200 and could have gotten better performing parts at cheaper prices but decided to let dell have the benefit of the doubt. I feel sorry for any one with a dell. Don't get me wrong there decent comps, but highly overpriced. :P
Posted by: ncjimn
I guess my next system I will build myself. Now I know where to look for advice!!
Posted by: blackhawk13
Well...if there are lots of guides out there, maybe post a link or two to some of those guides. They would help quite a bit for someone who's a first time computer builder.
Posted by: Elbatrop1
Thanks to Ellothar121 for letting me know about a nice building guide with pictures!
[url]http://www.techpowerup.com/articles//other/144/1[/url]
Posted by: Elbatrop1
Thanks again to Ellothar121 for letting me know of another really good building guide:
[url]http://tools.corsairmemory.com/systembuild/report.aspx?report_id=12472[/url]