The first step to putting together your new computer is to open up your motherboard and CPU manuals. These are provided with most components. While installing your motherboard may seem a little intimidating initially, it is a relatively simple process. The pieces fit together like a Lego set.
Choosing a motherboard
Choosing a motherboard for a PC can be challenging, especially since the market is saturated with different brands and models. With AMD and Intel launching new chips, the market is likely to grow more competitive, making it more critical than ever to choose a motherboard that works well with the brand of your CPU. However, you can also find motherboards perfect for a budget build.
A motherboard is a PCB that houses the connectivity between all PC components. The CPU, GPU, RAM, SSDs, and PSU plug into the motherboard. Motherboards offer different features, including PCI-E lanes, M.2 support, and overclocking capabilities. All of these features are dependent on the manufacturer and model.
Before installing any components into the motherboard, you need to align the screw holes. Then, install the hard and solid-state drives into their respective bays on the motherboard. You can find the location of these slots by consulting the motherboard’s manual. Now, you can begin assembling your computer.
Several form factors are available, but the most common size for a gaming PC is the ATX form factor. An ATX motherboard usually features two or four DIMM memory slots and at least two full-length PCI-E slots. If you’re building a PC for gaming, you’ll need a motherboard that supports the AMD CPU.
The most accessible component to install is the memory. RAM sits in vertical sockets next to the CPU. You should insert the memory starting with the left-hand slot. Once it’s seated, the memory will automatically lock into its place. You must leave a gap between two RAM sticks if installing two posts. The motherboard’s manual should include instructions on adequately spacing the RAM slots.
When choosing the components for your PC, make sure they are compatible. Software such as PCPartPicker can automatically check for compatibility issues. Ensure your workspace is free of static electricity, which can fry PC components. Fortunately, this problem is easy to overcome. You can protect your components and build a PC with minimum effort by following a few easy steps.
Choosing a power supply unit
Building a PC for the first time involves many factors, including the power supply unit. You want to choose one that will provide constant voltage and is reliable for a long time. You also want one that has a high total quality factor, which is measured by synthetic load tests. This means the power supply unit can reliably deliver its total wattage for a minimum of 10 years and twenty thousand hours. The power supply unit should also have good voltage regulation and low ripple/noise. In addition, it should have the ability to withstand extreme temperatures.
The first step is to decide how much power you need. This is the most critical aspect of power supply units since the power you need depends on the components inside. A typical PSU can provide anywhere from 300 watts to over 2000 watts. The next step is to decide on the connector type. There are two main types: round connectors (EPS) and square connectors (ATX). The case will tell you which kind of connector you need and the maximum number of cables that will fit into the matter.
Another essential factor to consider is price. If you have a tight budget, you can go for a cheap power supply, but don’t go for a low-quality one. It’s best to use an online calculator or calculate the power consumption of the various components in your PC before choosing a power supply.
A good quality power supply unit has a fan to keep the system cool. This fan prevents thermal throttling and overheating. It should be quiet, and a high-quality one has replaceable bearings. Those that don’t have replaceable bearings will wear out after a few years, so you should look for one with a more extended warranty.
The power supply is one of the most critical components in a PC. If you’re building a high-end gaming PC, you need a unit that will deliver the total wattage. The team should also be stable and not fluctuate beyond 90%. Even slight fluctuations in power can damage the hardware. When choosing a power supply unit, make sure you take into account the size of the motherboard and the components you’re planning to install.
Choose a power supply unit that is modular. A modular unit can save space and reduce the clutter inside your case. It also provides a lot of flexibility when it comes to connecting devices. Most power supplies come with many cables, so you should select a unit that can accommodate all your components. It would help if you also chose a power supply with at least 80+ certification, indicating it meets efficiency standards.
A low-cost 80+ White 400-watt unit might be the best option if you’re replacing a branded computer power supply. It will handle all of the components, including a primary graphics card. Although these are not high-end components, they’re affordable and offer good performance. However, they may come with only two years of warranty, and their cables are not modular.
