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How To Build A Computer: A Step By Step PC-Building Guide

From gaming PCs to PCs for business use, several pre-built computers are available in the market for various needs. Still, nothing surpasses the satisfaction to build a computer yourself.

It can be a daunting task for the first-timers, but once you are well acquainted with the procedure, the process feels more rewarding than challenging. 

Moreover, a custom-built PC offers you several advantages that a pre-built system doesn't. Some of the most prominent benefits of assembled PCs are as follows- 

• Fully customizable system - suiting perfectly to your needs.
• Budget-friendly custom features.
• Self-built PCs facilitate individual part upgrades in the future. 
• Separate warranty for different parts.

Want to set up your computer but not sure how to do it? You are at the right place. 

This detailed guide lists all the requirements for setting up an assembled computer and discusses the exact steps to set up your PC. So, whether you are embarking on a first build or looking to brush up on your memory, this detailed guide has got you covered.

Firstly, let us look at what an assembled PC consists of- 

The Vital Components To Take Care Of When You Build A Computer

Motherboard

The motherboard is the central unit of your PC that connects all its hardware components. Every component of your computer will be plugged into this circuit board. 

Motherboards are available in different configurations & sizes, designed to work with diverse processors and memory units. Therefore, before choosing a motherboard, you must determine which processor you are going to use. 

Processor

The processor is the most important chip of your PC. It acts as the brain of your computer and gives out instructions on behalf of programs. 

While there can be more than one processor in a single system, the CPU is the most important. 

Storage

Just as the name suggests, a storage unit is a part that preserves all your data into the PC. It is the walk-in closet of your computer, where all of your data, including - games, videos, documents, images, and everything else, is kept safe.

Memory 

It is a common misconception that memory(RAM) is the same as storage. However, both are entirely different. Storage is where all your data is stored permanently till the time you delete it manually. 

On the other hand, RAM is designed to handle all active jobs and apps. Without RAM, none of your programs, files, games, or broadcasts would run. The better your RAM is, the faster it will cache the data and perform multiple tasks.

Power Supply (PSU)

A power supply unit is a tiny box that performs the colossal role of keeping the power flowing to the entire team. It is the unit that determines the power and speed of your PC. 

The faster you want your computer to be, the more power it will need; hence, you must select your power source by keeping the same in mind. Going for a supply that can support 1-2 extra components is recommended. 

Metal Case & Cooling Fan 

Finally, the last part of your PC is the case, a metal box that holds all your parts together. It is the part that is visible to your eyes and acts as a skeleton for all your hardware components. 

While selecting a case, you must keep your motherboard's size and processor's size in mind. 

As the name suggests, a cooler (cooling fan) is a part that keeps your computer from overheating. They are available in several different sizes, and you should select one according to your functions. 

The Step By Step Process To Build a Computer From Scratch 

Step 1 - Installing The Motherboard 

• Start with opening the case. The first step of the process is to mount up the motherboard. 
• Read out the instructions mentioned on your motherboard and screw the holes into the case. 
• Place the board on top screws, which will have a thread for mounting the motherboard. If your case has an I/O plate, you should take it out and replace it with a motherboard I/O plate. 

Step 2 - Set Up The Processor & Cooler

• This part of the process is pretty straightforward. All you have to do is locate the CPU socket on the motherboard. 
• Lower the CPU gently into the socket, then flip the latch or locking mechanism softly.
• Hold the CPU by the sides and set the alignment straight to ensure that your processor fits correctly. 
• Next, you should set up a heat sink. Apply a bit of thermal paste after lining up the silicon square on your case and a copper circle on the processor. 
• After applying the thermal paste, align your heat sink and screws surrounding the processor unit and carefully install it into its place. 

Step 3 - Connect The Power Supply 

• In most cases, you will find a square spot near the top or bottom edge of the case, where you must fit the power supply. 
• Once you find this spot, set up your supply unit and screw it up in its place. 
• Plugin the large cabling connector from your power supply to the motherboard. 
• Next, plug in the 8-pin connector from the power supply to your process. Make sure that you spare some room for extra wires.

Step 4 - Installing Memory & Storage

• Installing memory is perhaps the most straightforward task you have to perform when you build a PC. You will easily spot vertical sockets next to the processor; here is where your RAM will go. A
• Login your RAM chips and place them incorrectly. After proper positioning, they will lock into the sockets automatically. 
• On the other hand, your SSD is placed in the front-facing part of your case. Fix it in places with screws. Plugin your power supply with your storage device. 
• Mount up other storage devices, if any, by following a similar procedure. 

Step 5 - Install A Graphics Card 

• Not all computers need an additional graphics card. You can always use the graphics from your motherboard. If so, you can skip this step. 
• On the lower half of your motherboard, you will find a slot for your graphics card. Line the card up with your space and gently put it in place. 
• Fix the card with screws to hold it in place.
• Plugin the power connector from your power supply with the graphics card. 

The EndNote 

By following the process mentioned above, you will be able to seamlessly set up all the essential parts of your assembled computer. However, installing additional features like optical drives (for CDs) or front panels may have to add 2-3 steps to your assembling procedure. 

Not sure whether you will be able to build your PC from scratch on your own? The tech experts at Parity Systems are here to help. For any information on custom-built PC or professional deployment of your systems, contact us today!