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Building a computer isn't quite such a daunting task. You don't need a PhD in computer engineering or very much know how at all save for a few small tidbits. Most components and wiring will only fit into their respective slots in a specific way so there's no fear of miswiring your computer and having it burst into flames. The best part about building your own PC is that, instead of searching out an expensive custom computer from a retailer like Dell or Alienware, you can stay within your own budget and allocate money as you see fit to the components and features most important to you.
Most computer cases are standardized in ATX (Advanced Technology Extended), meaning that the inputs and outputs are all aligned in exactly the same way on all models so that your internal components will fit. You'll most likely want a large spacious ATX case so you will have room to work. If you want to get fancy you can even purchase cases with acrylic windows and LED lights. Some computer cases come with built-in power supplies--this is the unit that will plug into a wall unit and power all the components within the PC. For beginners, you'll want to purchase a case + power supply combo just because it's more convenient. Later on, you can pick out a power supply seperately. A power supply with 400 watts or more should be adequate for your needs. Similarly, most cases will also include 80mm or 120mm cooling fans so that your system does not overheat. Most cases come with adequate cooling systems, although if you want to overclock your system you will want to purchase additional fans, or a liquid cooling system
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Like cases, some motherboards are standardized to ATX. They pretty much bolt right onto the side of your case using four to eight screws with the inputs and outputs aligned along the back of the case. Some things you'll want to consider when you purchase a motherboard:
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The amount of RAM in your computer will determine how fast it can process data and how well it can multitask with multiple programs running. You'll need to determine which type of RAM is compatible with your motherboard, this information should be available in the specs list of your motherboard. It's important to note that Desktop Computer RAM and Notebook RAM are not compatible. Check our wiki for more information on RAM.
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The speed of your processor will determine how much raw computing power your computer has. This will effect the amount of time a processor intensive task, like encoding or ripping a DVD, will take or how fast it can render graphics in a computer game--although graphics are far more dependent on graphics cards than processor speed. The two big manufacturers of processors are AMD and Intel. Intel processors are purported to perform better at multitasking desktop applications while AMD processors are better for graphics and gaming. Newer chips come in dual core
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The graphics card will determine what kind of graphics your computer can handle. While many motherboards come equipped with integrated graphics, most are ill-equipped to handle the graphics demands of most first-person shooter games. The two largest developers of graphics cards are ATI.
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Your audio card or sound card will determine the quality of sound able to be output by your computer.
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Turtle Beach Montego 7.1 Surround Sound Card w/ Dolby Digital Live |
Optical drives include CD and DVD ROM drives as well as CD and DVD burners. Optical drives connect primarily via IDE cables.
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