Thinking about building

[cday710]

I am thinking about building my first system, but I really do not know how to. I can read many "how to's" online, but I am still reluctant to buy the pieces and get started. Just recently I took apart one of our unused computers just to see everything inside which is what game me the idea of building one myself. The computer did not work prior to its disassembly, so I cannot practice putting it back together. When taking it apart I recognized many components as well as cables and wires connecting the pieces. Ultimately I am wondering if there are any tutorials, possibly with pictures, which could take me through the process of building a computer. Any help would be greatly appreciated as I feel that this would be a great skill to have so I won't have to continue purchasing premade computers.

Thanks

[ktkendall]

GO Here:
http://www.pcmech.com/byopc/index.htm

[cday710]

I have read that and still some of it is over my head. I could probably attempt putting together something using that as a step by step process, but I am not very confident.

[Alaron]

I too recommend our own BYOPC Guide. You can purchase it in book form, with full color photos and lots of extras. Plus you can ask any questions you have here.

http://www.pcmech.com/shop/index.htm#book

[kram 2.0]

After you have read the PCM BYOPC guide, you should be pretty much set. Reading the motherboard manual through several times is key to making sure everything goes well. Just be sure to follow it step by step and you should be fine.

kram

[flanzig1]

Once you decide on the parts, many of the manufactureres have installation instructions with pictures on their web sites. Such as case maker XYZ will show how to install stuff in their case,etc.

[ktkendall]

Don't worry, I doubt very many of us were confident our first time, but you will only learn by doing it. It's very hard to do any permanent damage because most all the connections only go on 1 way, especially the power connections only fit 1 way and that is the right way. Those little case wires for your power switch and such can be a little tricky, but as long as you use a good light in there so you can actually see what your doing in there you'll be fine. I brought my first build parts home in an assortment of bags and spent about 600, and began the process. Finally had it all ready to hit the power button for the first time, and WALA, NOTHING happened. My only thought was, She's (the wife) going to kill me if I can not make something out of this mess. Turns out the processor was just not snapped in good, it was those old slot A type. Point being If you have the desire you should go for it, just take your time and be careful, and we're here for any questions and or problems you may have.

[freakitchen]

Here's a couple more guides. Use them in combination with the PC Mech online guide and book.

http://www.mechbgon.com/build/index.html

http://www.mysuperpc.com/build/pc_parts_list.shtml

FK

[cuog]

when building if u dont feel confident just keep ur other computer open to PCMech and if u really need a hand holding i could give u step by step as u go along via AIM also get a grounding strap(they're only a few dolars but well worth it)

[cday710]

Thanks, those posts were reassuring. I think in the near future I will make an attempt. My father's computer is terribly old and slow. He knows I am looking into this and said if possible he would like me to build him "a computer only used for word processing and the internet." He wont be using it for games or anything, just word processing and the internet like he said. In the future I am planning on posting a topic about which parts I should purchase.

[Kareeser]

For a computer designed for word processing and light internet surfing, you won't need very expensive parts (comparative to a gamer's system)

You may even get one built for under US$400! (Most likely less)

This forum is always here to help you with any problems you may encounter, and rest assured, the community will help you choose parts for it.