Build Your Own Computer

By learning how to build your own computer system you can save a lot of money and you get exactly the system the you need.

Building your own computer system is not too difficult and well within the capability of anybody with an aptitude for technical stuff. If you have little or no knowledge of computer systems and components then it is worthwhile investing in good book like Upgrade And Repair PC's which will give you the confidence you take advantage of the great deals available in discount computer parts and enable you to upgrade, repair or build your own system. This will save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars in the years to come.

This purpose of this page is gives you an overview of the hardware you need with links to some good sources of discount computer parts. The components of the most basic of computer systems consist of a Computer Case and Power Supply, a Motherboard, a CPU, Memory, and a Hard Disk Drive. Once these are all assembled you have a basic system, but to make it more functional you need to add such extras as CD/DVD Drives, floppy drives, sound cards, video card, etc. Click Here for great prices on Discount Computer Parts


Computer Case
It's worth spending a bit extra on a quality case because while the motherboard and CPU may need to be upgraded from time to time the case will last for many years. Be sure the case also has room for additional hard drives and CD or DVD drives. A USB port in the front panel is also a nice option. Click Here for great prices on Cases


Motherboards
The motherboard is the most important component in the computer. I would recommend going for the best you can afford. The chipset is the hub of the motherboard. You need to pay attention to what chipset a motherboard has before you purchase it. It will determine the future upgradability of the board. As a minimum the board should have 4-5 PCI slots and an AGP slot and supports DDR memory. Many motherboards come with build-in sound, video and a network socket. Make sure they can be disable in case you need to upgrade these components in the future. Click Here for great prices on Motherboards


Processors
Which CPU you get is a matter of personal choice and is determined by what you will be using the computer for. If you need it for CAD for example, you will need the fastest available processor. Otherwise a CPU that's been around for 6 months or so will do fine. You also have the choice of Intel or AMD CPU's. I like AMD as they are in some cases faster than Intel and cheaper. Which ever one you go for make sure your motherboard supports it, and get a quality Cooler as all processors need cooling. Click Here for great prices on Processors


Memory
Get as much memory as you can afford, preferably DDR. Get at least 1024MB, I recommend a minimum of 2048MB as memory is relatively cheap. Click Here for great prices on Memory

Barebone Kits
If all this seems too complicated then another option is to go for a Barebones System. They usually consist of a case with the motherboard, CPU and memory installed. They are ideal for a beginner and as you can easily add a hard drive, video card and CD Drive. Click Here for great range and excellent prices on Barebone Systems

Hard Disk Drive
Buy as large a drive a you can afford. Make sure it's IDE and SATA. Also insure the rotation speed is at least 7200RPM. It should also have a manual with the jumper settings. Click Here for great prices on Hard Disk Drives


Video Cards
Get a 128MB or higher video card. If you need a card to play the latest games expect to pay a lot more for high end gaming cards. Click Here for great prices on Video Cards


CD/DVD Drives
Consider getting at least a DVD Re-writer and if you can afford it get a Dual Layer DVD Re-writer as they are now becoming affordable. Click Here for great prices on CD/DVD Drives


Accessories
You will also need Sound Card if it is not built into the motherboard and speakers. A PS2 Keyboard and Mouse. Click Here for some great prices.


Monitors
If you are going to spend a lot of time sitting in front of you monitor, then you need to invest in a good quality one. Consider getting a at least a 19" LCD Flat Panel Display as they are now becoming affordable. Click Here for some great prices on Monitors


Build Your Own Computer
Now that you have decided which computer parts you need it's worth investing in a good book like "Build Your Own PC" at under $18 it's a excellent investment. With a simple to follow step-by-step instructions, you will be up and running in no time. For more "build your own computer" books Click Here