What a Newbie Should Expect?

[Boomerm3]

I'm getting ready to start my first build. I researching motherboards on NewEgg, I see lots of problems with builders using ASUS boards.

I thought this was one of the top suppliers and was planning to use their board. BUT, problems with multiple startups, memory issues, required adjustment of voltages, disabling functions in the Bios, etc.

I am not interesting in overclocking (or otherwise changing performance out of the box).

Q: Will I encounter these kinds of problems?

Q: If I assemble the 'correct' components, can I expect the PC to work on power-up?

Q: I am comfortable with the components - but an I going to be over my head in this?

Thanks for the input.

[echrisinger]

I did my first build recently - and (edited by admin) up a motherboard - but it's ok since I got a new one for free despite the fact that it was my fault.
You should look up a LOT of tutorials on youtube etc., and follow all the manuals given to you. Leave something unplugged if you don't know exactly where it goes (that's how I messed up my board - plugged in a fan in the wrong place).
As for being over your head, just take it slowly, and look up exactly what to do. Make sure you have proper cable management, so you don't get confused with a ton of wires.
Also, I'd suggest making a thread on here for all of your questions - It helps lots.

[glc]

How about you post your budget for just the computer (not including operating system or peripherals) and what you want the computer to do?

[jdeb]

Originally Posted by Boomerm3 I'm getting ready to start my first build. I researching motherboards on NewEgg, I see lots of problems with builders using ASUS boards. I thought this was one of the top suppliers and was planning to use their board. BUT, problems with multiple startups, memory issues, required adjustment of voltages, disabling functions in the Bios, etc. I am not interesting in overclocking (or otherwise changing performance out of the box). Q: Will I encounter these kinds of problems? Q: If I assemble the 'correct' components, can I expect the PC to work on power-up? Q: I am comfortable with the components - but an I going to be over my head in this? Thanks for the input.

Asus uses the highest quality components and manufacturing process. I have done many builds and I can tell you from experience, Asus leads the way for quality, stability, and customer service. Many people who experience problems are not using QVL memory, power power supplies, and do not have a clear understanding. This forum is where you can save yourself a lot of headache.

Q1 : It is not normal to encounter problems if you select the correct components. Many of the reviews are done by inexperienced builders as evident by what they say in the reviews.

Q2: Correct components go a long way into getting your PC to boot the first time. Follow the sticky link below to increase your chances for success.

Q3: List your components selection, budget, and use so we can help you make solid decisions.

PROBLEMS with a NEW BUILD? Try This!!

[David M]

Are you reading the Newegg reviews? If so, you cant rely on those reviews. You have to go by the opinions of professional builders who have a much better sampling of boards.

[Boomerm3]

Originally Posted by David M Are you reading the Newegg reviews? If so, you cant rely on those reviews. You have to go by the opinions of professional builders who have a much better sampling of boards.

Yes to NewEgg. I can (I hope) get good recommendations from this board. But, the comments I read are 'real' people who are having real assembly problems. I can't play with a volt meter to troubleshoot. I don't want to get to that level.

So, is this a doable task for my skill level?

[glc]

If you know how to use a screwdriver, yes.

[Jeri]

I had no knowledge but I had the desire to learn. Fortunately for me, I found this forum and the incredibly helpful people here. Thanks to their help, I have successfully built a total of 7 pc’s over the last few years. I have had no issues with any of them – either during the build or later while in daily use. So far, because I trust these folks, I have used only ASUS boards.

I still consider myself a beginner, but I have learned a lot and it is very satisfying to build my own computers. I just built 2 last weekend and everything went like clockwork; if I can do it you can! Just trust the advice you get here and if you have a question – ask it.

Which reminds me... I do have a question – I’ll start a new thread...

Jeri

[Boomerm3]

Originally Posted by glc If you know how to use a screwdriver, yes.

Is that a big screwdriver?? And a small hammer??
Thanks for the input.

I started a new thread with questions about the parts for the build.

peter

[glc]

We prefer that you keep all questions about a build in one thread, but I'll leave it alone and simply close this thread.