Build a Computer : Intro
The two ways to build a computerI have divided this course into two paths:
The separation into two paths will not happen until we have skimmed through the components that make up a computer, i.e. after Step 2. At the end of Step 2 you will then be able to choose which path you want to take. I created a Course Flowchart for you to see exactly how the course is prepared. You can click anywhere on the Flowchart image map to go to any step you want. The course flowchart looks like this:
Before we begin with the ins and outs of how to build a computer, we will go through some very important considerations you need to be aware of. CostIf you go back 15 years or more then to build your own computer was very lucrative, but especially since we entered the new millennium the big dollar gains are simply not there anymore. You can still definitely save money if you build a computer, but then mostly by doing clever hardware choices as I will show you later on in the course. Savings can be made up to US$ 500 or more on a high-end computer system, not bad is it?HardwareWhen you know how to build a computer you will understand the importance of choosing the right hardware components. Computer manufacturers like HP or Dell will make inferior hardware choices simply because the competition is ruthless and a few dollars here and there will make a big difference. When you build a computer you have the power to install whatever components you want. The most important though is that you can decide which hardware to emphasize moneywise.SoftwareNowadays when you buy a pre-built computer from a major manufacturer like Dell or HP it comes loaded with all kinds of useless software. They stuff it with all kinds of software that you most likely will not have any use for at all. The only reason it is there is for them to squeeze out a few more bucks from you. The big drawback to build a computer on your own might be the Operating System (normally Microsoft Windows), where the major manufacturers have a significant discount, but there are actually a way (or two) around this. Just follow the course and I will show you how.ServiceIt is very uncommon that you find a computer manufacturer that is offering a warranty beyond 1 year. All of them will try to make you sign up for expensive warranty extensions, which high cost cannot be justified. If you want to extend your warranty to 3 years it usually cost you an additional $150 to $250 – that's a lot. Imagine your hard drive breaks down and you want to replace it. If you know how to build a computer, then to replace the hard drive would certainly cost less than $150 (except if you have installed a gigantic one of course). The only problem when you build a computer on your own is that you need to figure out which component is faulty and then send it back to the vendor if the component is still within warranty. It is rare that a component fails within the first year, actually all computer hardware components are designed to last at least 3 years of regular use. Buying only the highest quality hardware will assure you that they will last beyond 3 years.To summarize the advantages and disadvantages of building your own computer is the following: Advantages
Planning your computerThe first thing you need to do when you have decided to build a computer on your own is to start thinking about what you really need and plan according to this. Most people that want to build a computer start out with what would be nice to have not what they really have use for. We all want a high performance computer with all the bells and whistles – but why would you spend money on a Ferrari when you really need a pickup truck? If you are using your computer just to surf the web, download some music and write that occasional document then anything more than a basic computer is a waste of money – spend it on something else instead and have fun doing it. The situation becomes different when you are a dedicated Gamer or have special demands, then spending a few extra bucks can make your experience so much more satisfying and enjoyable. However, the common denominator here is the careful and smart selection of hardware components that go into your computer – what you are looking for is the most bang for your hard-earned buck, right?I have created a printable document (pdf) that you can download for easy calculation and comparison of two different configurations. Use it to plan your computer system. You need a pdf viewer to make use of the document. I recommend Foxit Reader, which you can download for free. Safety and toolsSince we are handling electronic components, some rules need to be followed.Always unplug the computer and peripherals when you are working on your hardware.
You do not really need anything better than the above, since you probably will only use it once a year or so. It contains everything you might need including anti-static wristband and tiny flashlight at a reasonable price. If you intend to use you tool kit frequently (more than once a month) or just want a professional tool kit then go to Stanley's. The reason for wearing an anti-static wristband when building or repairing a computer is related to ESD (Electrostatic Discharge). ESD is simply an accumulation of an electric charge (static electricity) and the following discharge, which for example can be caused by rubbing your clothing against something (polyester fabrics are the worst) and then touching someone or something else. Just because you don't see a spark doesn't mean there isn't a charge. A spark will only be generated if the charge is over 3000 volts. Since computer hardware is very delicate, even a small electric discharge can completely destroy your expensive hardware. You must take the necessary precautions, i.e wear an anti-static wristband, otherwise you will destroy your hardware. Just don't forget to attach it to the metal frame of your case, else it doesn't work. By the way, you are not going to be able to return a motherboard or video card that you destroyed by not wearing or properly using an anti-static wristband. See below for proper use:
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