How to Build a Computer

One trip the computer store can send your head reeling from all the choices and difference in prices, sometimes simply for the name on the case. When I needed a new computer, one short trip to the store was all it took to encourage me to learn more about computers. I set out to not only know more about how they worked but also to learn enough about computers to build my own. This opened up a door to many options I did not have at the computer stores I had visited.

My first task was to determine what my computer needs were, and to then start building a master list of components and compatibility of those components. I set out to build a computer suited to my needs, but to also build a computer that was affordable and as an investment for the future. I did not want to have to continue to swap out parts later, so I chose what was the best value for the money, all the while keeping my computer needs in sight.

Once I had decided on the processor I wanted to use I could begin looking for the motherboard that was right for my needs. I had to keep everything in budget, so this is one area I would have liked to have moved up in, but it wasn't possible. I did make sure to choose a motherboard that is upgradeable to a faster processor later on. The cost was kept down by watching for sales and rebates, and taking advantage of those.

The heat sink needs of my computer processor unit was not only based upon the processor, but also the motherboard. This is vital at keeping your processor cool and functioning correctly. If it overheats, you can permanently damage your processor. That is not a cheap part to replace. I actually had purchased the wrong heat sink for my computer the first time around, and had to return it in order to purchase the right one. I was thankful that I was able to do that, but also wanted to mention at this point that if you are buying computer components, please take note of the return policy of some of the companies you are dealing with. I got lucky with the heat sink, but know that if paying a restocking fee had been mentioned, I would have had more problems.

The motherboard choice determines a few other things for your computer as well. It will determine what type of RAM you can use. That was my next purchase, and much to my surprise, the RAM for most computers have come down greatly in price. I think my choice of motherboard probably put me in a bit cheaper level for the RAM for my computer. This was a pleasant surprise, as most of the needs I have from my computer are RAM intensive. The savings enabled me to buy more RAM for my computer than I had planned on, which has been a great surprise.

The graphics card for my computer was the most expensive component. It is the greatest piece in my computer needs, but even with that I searched out the best deal. The amount of rebates and sales at the computer shops that are online gave me week after week of great deals to decide on what I was going to pay. I found the best deal, and was quickly on my way to building my computer.

The DVD ROM drive I chose was picked up at Wal Mart, as that was my best deal for the needs of my computer. The hard drive was also picked up at a local shop to save on shipping. I did factor in the cost of gas to go pick it up, and it still ended up being the best deal for my computer build. I am not sorry for that purchase, as the first one was defective, so I was quickly able to replace it rather than waiting a week for it to ship back to a company and then another week for the replacement to be shipped back to me.

The only component left was the case and power supply. The power supply was decided upon based on the needs of my graphics card, and potential to upgrade this computer. I went with one a little bigger than I needed, in hopes of not replacing it in the first round of computer upgrades. The power supply also had a rebate, and I found a great deal on it which allowed me to get the larger, more powerful power supply for the cost of one that would be considered standard. This was a great find, and a great investment in the future use of my computer.

The case or tower I chose was based upon the cool factor. Now how cool it looked to me, but how cool it would keep the components as my use would stress the processor and cause the temperatures to rise. Temperature is your enemy to any computer, but especially when using programs that are graphic intense. My computer has 4 fans that assist in air flow and keeping the computer innards cool. Two in the front pull in cool air to flow over the components and over the graphics card. I have one more at the back that pulls the hot air out of the case and pushes it out. This causes a great flow of cool air from front to back. There is also a fan directly over the heat sink that also pulls cool air into the case and pushes it directly into the heat sink, helping it disperse heat and allowing the computer processor unit to stay cool.

This computer is my first build, and was a great success. I am not a computer expert, but I learned a lot and built a machine that my teen sons are jealous of. If I can do it, you can do it. Take time, do your research and find the best deal that matches up with your needs. This investment will be with me a long time. This computer is solid, and I know it inside and out. This computer build is my first, but also fits my needs like a glove. I would like to encourage you to take the time to learn and build your own computer in the future. It's rewarding to not only do it yourself, but also to know that in the future, it won't cost you hundreds of dollars to replace an outdated computer, but less than that to simply update the component in your computer that needs to be upgraded.