Complete newb wants to learn (but not buy... just yet)

[dionusos]

I'm a complete newb when it comes to building PCs from scratch. I want to get into PC gaming, so I need to a build a desktop from scratch... I only have a laptop. I won't be doing it right now, but when I do, I'll have my geeky/nerdy friend do it cause he's that knowledgable about it. But I figure it's best to learn from more than one person so that's why I'm posting here.

I'm not looking for advice on specific models of parts, since newer stuff will be out by the time I'm ready to buy. But I do want to start learning general concepts right now...

So as far as philosophy goes when it comes to building a PC (meant for gaming)... I have some questions.... generally I'd like to speak as if money was no object, for learning purposes.

1) For CPUs, what's with all this dual core, quad core stuff? Is Quad core simply better than dual core cause it's 4 processors instead of 2? Or is 2 ever better than 4?
2) I have heard that the CPU with the highest clock speed isn't necessarily the best one... why is that, if it's true? And what is the "best" choice? Are the terms "fastest CPU" and "best CPU" interchangeable?
3) Graphics cards... is there anything to know other than buy the latest ones for the best performance?
4) Motherboards... I don't know what to ask. What should I know about them?
5) Compatibility... do I need to choose a graphics card and a CPU and a motherboard that are compatible with each other?
6) I read that you shouldn't upgrade your CPU to a different brand on the same motherboard... why is that? Doesn't upgrading your CPU simply mean replacing the CPU with a better one? And if it's replaced, then what does it matter if you're using the same motherboard?
7) Viewscreen... can I somehow connect a PC to my HDTV? I have a Samsung LN-T4066F.
8) Other... anything else (I'm sure there is) stuff a newbie should know about builing a gaming PC?

Again, I have no intention of building one now... Just want to learn.

[Alaron]

Welcome to PCMech.

1. You'll find arguments for and against quadcore. I think it makes sense because more and more products will use the extra cores. You should lean this way, especially if you'll be waiting a few months.
2. Clock speeds dont tell the whole story anymore with CPUs. The architecture, extra cores, cache, FSB and lots of other variables enter into the equation. Best to look at benchmarks to see which has the edge when comparing models.
3. There is a lot to know about video cards really, but in general if you're gaming, go with the latest generation. Again look at benchmarks to get the best performance for the money. Its not always beneficial to spend a ton for a couple extra FPS.
4. Motherboards again involve a lot if you want to get into it. We recommend quality boards like Asus and Intel. Buying a good brand will save you a lot of headache. Also, you'll want to compare features to make sure your board has what you need and matches with all of your other parts.
5. CPUs and Motherboards require matching sockets at the basic level. Otherwise you'll need to be sure your board can handle your CPU. The manufacturer's website has this information. Pretty much all new video cards use the PCI-Express connection you find on motherboards, so thats an easy check.
6. You cannot interchange AMD and Intel CPUs on the same motherboard. See 5.
7. Yes you can. Video cards have DVI connections, which your TV probably has.
8. Do more research. Check out sites like TomsHardware, Webopedia and all of the articles on PCMech.

[pam123]

1. Single core processors are being restricted to basic boxes. Quad core is the way the future ls going but, the guys at Crysis not withstanding, it isn't here yet.
What's going to happen is one core will run the physics engine for the game, the other two cores will split the work between them and the 4th core will run background processes.

2. It's the best cpu depending on what you need it to do.
A gamer or serious video editor would need a fast multi-core processor but it's insane overkill if all you do is surf the web and send email.

3.Graphics cards upgrade roughly twice a year and the latest isn't necessarily the best, though it can certainly be the most expensive. That's why you read reviews before you go card shopping.

4. Having decided on what you want to do with the computer and chosen your processor then you chose the motherboard. Intel compatible boards for Intel processors and AMD compatible boards for AMD processors; and no you can't swap at random.
The latest and most expensive tricked out board isn't necessarily the best way to go (and remember that you're going to have to set it up.) as a beginner.

5. Since if they're not compatible your computer isn't going to boot up, yes you do.

6. The word is compatible a board will accept only certain processors within a given range and no AMD board accepts Intel processors and it doesn't work the other way around .either.

7. Yes you can connect your pc to an HDTV. It's called a Home Theater PC (HTPC).

First rule : Do your homework.