¶ … Build a Computer
Building your own computer can be a profoundly rewarding and interesting project, if approached with a realistic understanding of the steps involved in the process. There are many advantages of building your own computer, including the reduced cost of building your own machine (Ashen). However, the personal satisfaction of building your own computer can be the greatest reward. This paper provides a brief overview of building a personal computer (PC), using standard parts and techniques, and should act as a helpful guide for the first-time computer builder.
Getting Started
Perhaps the most intimidating part of building a computer can simply be getting started on the process. Choosing your parts is an important part of this process, and depends on a number of factors, including your intended use for the computer, pricing, and space available (Learnthat).
The parts that you need to purchase for your computer consist of both internal and external parts. External parts are the most familiar components to most people, and include the case, monitor, speakers, keyboard, mouse, CD-Rom drive, and speakers (if desired). Internal parts that will be needed are the motherboard, processor, video card, sound card, memory (RAM), hard drive, floppy drive, power supply, modem, network card, and fans. Notes Rosenthal (2002), "The case is almost universally sold with the power supply installed and included in the price" (3).
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Tools that are required are a screwdriver and thermal grease. Screws should be provided with the motherboard, and other individual parts should come with the internal components of your computer. A number of wires will also be needed, including ribbon wiring for hooking up the motherboard to individual ports, and power supply cords. These wires should also be included with the internal components of your computer.
Installation
Installing the internal parts may be the most challenging and interesting aspect of building your computer. First, attach the motherboard to the case. You may need to set jumpers on the motherboard prior to this step, a process that involved moving a number of small tabs/switches in order to customize the electricity that flows through your motherboard. You will need to consult the owner's manual for your specific motherboard to correctly set these jumpers (Shimpi).
After the motherboard is installed, you will need to attach parts to the motherboard, and attach other parts to the case. First, attach your CPU. This is a crucial step, as the CPU is the "brain of your PC, executing the instructions of the software programs you run..." (Rosenthal, 6). To install the CPU, pull the locking lever away from the socket, match up the corners of the CPU and socket and then insert the CPU. Use gentle pressure and be careful not to force the CPU into place, as this can cause damage. Bring the locking lever down, and…
