For the vast majority of users, off the shelf computers deliver enough bang for their buck. However, for those who want a powerful machine without breaking the bank, building your own computer can be a relatively inexpensive solution. Although the task may seem intimidating, assembling your own computer can be much simpler than you would think.
There are some good reasons why someone might not be satisfied with the typical PCs available on the market. If you play a lot of computer games, for example, you will probably require a high performance graphics card in your computer. A quality GPU is required to play the majority of cutting edge video games. These cards are usually pretty inexpensive but are simply left out of many manufacturer s PCs. Gaming optimized hardware are usually included in much more expensive machines. Even worse, many computers don t include a power supply strong enough to run a quality video card. For someone who wants to play video games on a budget, this means performing some serious surgery on an inexpensive off the shelf computer. However, if you are willing to build a system from scratch, you will have a reasonably easy time buying an impressive setup at a low price.
Building your powerhouse computer is a simpler process than it may appear at first. You only really need a couple basic parts. You need a power supply, motherboard, processor, case, hard drive, and DVD drive. Random access memory is required as well. If you want high quality graphics, you can include a video card in your build. There are many more optional hardware components to choose from as well. Buying your own parts allows you to customize your system to run the software that you prefer. This can save you quite a bit of money. Manufacturers tend to include hardware that might exceed the requirements you need in one category while failing to meet your hardware needs in another.
The power supply is a critically underrated component. Future upgrades will be made possible by having a good quality power supply. A weak or already somewhat obsolete power supply will not provide enough electricity to meet the requirements of new hardware components six months to a year down the line. The same is true of the motherboard, a poor or outdated motherboard will not be compatible with high performance processors. You should choose a reliable motherboard that has good upgrade potential. Your processor and motherboard must be compatible. If you invest most of your budget in those two pieces, you will be able to upgrade very easily in the future.
Once you have purchased your parts, make sure that you have the proper tools to assemble your computer. You will probably only need a small phillips head screwdriver, but other tools may be required. You can ask at the store or a representative online whether you will need additional tools when you purchase your parts. It would be wise to buy an anti static wrist bracelet while you are getting the hardware. Static electricity can damage your valuable computer components. Since an anti static wrist bracelet is so inexpensive, you should purchase one for good measure.
Assembling the computer will be a little bit of a undertaking for the first timer. Have patience. Carefully read the instructions that come with each component. Watch a few instructional videos. It may be helpful to have a second person available to help you match up the appropriate connectors or to refer to instructions while you are putting together pieces. You should leave a little room in the budget for unexpected expenses, your first build might involve some accidental damage to parts. Do not throw away any of the packaging or receipts for the components until you have put together and tested your PC. It may be that a few parts do not function together, or a few parts may suffer from manufacturing errors that prevent them from working at all. Any such parts must be replaced with working, compatible equivalents.
When you have completed your first machine, you will have an excellent, personalized computer and a sense of accomplishment. It will also be very easy for you to upgrade in the future. While most consumers will be sated with pre built computers, the user with specialized needs will find this strategy much cheaper.
Author Resource:
Gregg Housh holds the position of Technician Manager at Geek Choice. At Geek Choice we solve computer problems such as: Slow computer, Virus Removal, Spyware Removal, Computer startup problems, and much more.
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