| The world of computers is constantly changing. It is | | | | You can also benefit from gaming ports for joysticks |
| one of the only industries that is different from | | | | or other game controllers. |
| month to month. If you're in the market for a new | | | | The hardest part about building your own PC is |
| PC, there are continually new options available. To | | | | installing the motherboard and the Operating System. |
| get the best bang for your buck in computer | | | | This is the first step toward creating the unit. You |
| technology, you may want to consider building your | | | | must physically put the components into the case |
| own PC. | | | | using screws. Begin with the motherboard and then |
| Those with a little know how in the computer | | | | connect your processor. Add the memory into the |
| industry can save themselves tons of money by | | | | memory slots and install any necessary drives. |
| building their own computers. Companies such as | | | | Once you've installed the drives, you can put in the |
| Tiger Direct and offer components that can create a | | | | install CDs for your operating system. Most PCs will |
| top of the line system for a fraction of the cost. | | | | guide you through the set up process to install the |
| These stores offer all of the necessary components | | | | operating system. After making sure the operating |
| that reside in the "case" or main unit of the | | | | system is up and running, put in your other devices |
| computer. | | | | one at a time. |
| These include the motherboard, processor, cooling | | | | Although it may be quicker to install all of your |
| fans, hard drive, memory, keyboard, mouse, video | | | | additional hardware at once, you want to test each |
| and sound cards. There are motherboards available | | | | piece as you go to make sure that piece is in good |
| with integrated video and sound but not all do. | | | | working order. |
| When you are buying a motherboard, make sure to | | | | Even though building your own PC can give you a |
| check whether you will need to buy a separate video | | | | better computer for less money, the process is not |
| and sound card. Also make sure that the | | | | for everyone. As a compromise, computer |
| motherboard you are buying has extra slots so you | | | | companies like Dell and Gateway allow their |
| can expand your system. | | | | customers to custom build PCs on their website. |
| Another key to remember when building your own | | | | A customer can choose from different options |
| computer is to make sure all of your components will | | | | regarding speed, memory and special portals. The |
| work together. Manufacturers make specific models | | | | additional benefit of buying from a company is that |
| to work together, so you may want to buy your | | | | the PC is normally under a guarantee. You can also |
| parts from just one brand. | | | | take advantage of technical support. This may be the |
| If you are going to use your computer to surf the | | | | best option for someone who has extra money to |
| Internet and play computer games you are going to | | | | spend to get the custom components that they |
| need extra pieces. At minimum you will need an | | | | want. |
| Ethernet card, CD/DVD drives and a graphics card. | | | | |