OT- Building custom computer- hard?

[Derrick Townsend]

Hey guys I was looking into building a custom computer. I am pretty good with a computer and changing components but never really messed with motherboards and what not. Is it a hard process? and does anyone have any instructions?

Thanks

Derrick

 

[Thomas Rogers]

LSU, it's quite easy...and rewarding.



Linked below is a very good tutorial (haven't read it in a couple years, may be dated), it discusses all the essentials.



The main reason to build your own these days is to get the higher performance system for less. With around $1K invested in parts and an OS, you can get a really high-end gaming system that would cost twice as much if you went Dell XPS or Alienware.



If your needs are general computing, then you can't beat the prices of Dell and HP when building your own.



Good luck and have fun...

 

[Richard L]

As TJR said, it's pretty easy. I've built two PC's from components I purchased on-line and saved about 50%+ over what that same PC would cost if I purchased it already assembled. Most retail PC's are loaded with overrated junk software that you don't want or need, but it's included in the price anyway.



Usually you can purchase a good quality motherboard and a compatible CPU as a package deal. Often they don't include a CPU fan so but don't skimp on the CPU fan, buy a good one. Get the biggest, baddest, fasted CPU and motherboard you can afford since hardware is outdated so fast, you want to get the longest life out of your hardware.



I also buy my Case and Power supply together as a unit and don't go any smaller than 350 watts and 450 watts is even better if you ever hope to add on other hard drives, etc.



...Rich

 

[Todd Cloutier]

Building your own PC is pretty easy, as TJR and RichardL said. Don't skimp on the power supply, particularly if you plan on playing any video games or such. Most of the video cards required for games need a 450watt or higher power supply. Don't skimp on the CPU heatsink and thermal compound either. A cool CPU is a happy CPU.

 

[Matthew Pickwell]

Just got done with one lat week and there is no way that I could have got this performance and features for what I spent from a prefab. This was my second build and I plan to do all of them. I am building my wife another one next month. Let me no if you get hung up and need help.

 

[troy malone]

if your looking for parts this is a great site...

www.pricewatch.com



one of the best on line dealears is www.newegg.com

really good for reviews of parts....



you may spend more building your own... especially if you want top o the line parts...



troy

 

[Jacob Dryer]

tomshardware (linked below) has a 3 part article on how to build your own.



I have not purchased a computer since about 1993. I've built every computer since then (with the exception of our laptop)



If you have swapped other components and are comfortable with that, building your own it's too difficult at all. Just take your time and read lots before you do it/order your stuff.

 

[Derrick Townsend]

Thanks guys I appreciate the links.

 

[blksn8k]

I lost most of my major components to a lightning strike about four years ago. That included the power supply, motherboard and hard drive. I bought most of the new parts through pricewatch.com as TroY noted and I didn't skimp on quality. I'm no expert by any means but it has been running flawlessly ever since. Piece of cake.



Oh, make sure you use a good quality surge protector as well. :blink:

 

[Matthew Pickwell]

I also recommend www.NewEgg.com and of course www.TigerDirect.com runs great deals.

 

[Matthew Pickwell]

One more thing to keep in mind. If you reuse stuff from your old computer{which I do}, try to keep it atleast able to run. That way, if you need to get online for help, you can.

 

[Casey B]

Another source for general info:

 

[TomT]

I have been building my own computers and all the computers at work for over 10 years. It's a piece of cake. You get a chance to have QUALITY components installed on your computer, not the junk Dell, HP and others have in theirs. My advice to a newbie is to make a list of all the components you need, then start shopping. If you really want to save, do what I do. Instead of buying everything at once, shop for the really great deals. I will spend 2 or 3 months buying components for my computer. If your willing to take your time and don't mind rebates, you can get a kickass computer that will run circles around ANY strore-bought one for well under $1000.

Keep an eye on this site for deals: