So, I wanna learn how to build a computer. Where should I start?

Question

My computer I am on now is really slow 666mhz processor, 186 memory and really crappy motherboard with hardware glitches. I got it in like 97 anyway.

Well I know the cheapest way to get a new computer is build it yourself. I went into compUSA yesterday and im kinda excited about it. I dont want to pay someone else to build it for me.

What things do I need to buy if I want to build a very fast computer with ok graphics. I dont want a gaming computer, but I definitely want a fast processor and huge harddrive.

What should I do first?

Answer 1

Learn about what you are getting into, or you'll end up wasting lots of money.

http://www.tomshardware.com/
http://www.anandtech.com/

And Google. *Please* do your homework diligently. Nothing like buying a motherboard you think is great, and then finding it's the wrong type for your processor and RAM, or buying a SCSI hard drive without proper support, or buying a video card that doesn't have a supported chipset.

If you haven't built a computer before, or the whole thing is new to you, you'll want to understand how the components fit together. Read read read...

Answer 2

First thing first is buy a case & motherboard. Make sure you get something that has enough slots for what you need (usually a minimum of 3 PCAs and an AGP slot for video. Make sure you get one that will support the processor you want.

Go with a Dual core processor if possible for speed.

Get a HD that is 7200 rpm if you are wanting a big one - access times will be shorter.

Oh and check the FSB on the motherboard so that it will be good for your memory and processor - after all, why get the good stuff only to be limited by your motherboard?

Hope this helps. :)

Answer 3

Java or C++. Java is a bit easier to start out with, but if you learn C++ correctly from the start the move to Java is a cakewalk. If you learn Java first and then move to C++, it will not hold your hand nearly as much, and the transition may be more difficult. If you had someone tutoring you, I'd say C++ in an instant, because you can get your questions answered quickly. If you're going to be doing a self-study sort of operation, it's an even draw. Good luck!

Answer 4

I've built several, and helped with many more computer builds. First, buy one on the shelf, it's usually cheaper unless you exactly know what your doing, like the ultimate gaming machine. Ok, if you are hell bent on it, you can buy all the pieces and parts, the store clerk might be able to help you. If you can snap together Lego, you can build a computer, read the instructions for each part. Then it's a matter of installing the firmware and drives for each part. Maybe someone knows better than me, but my son in law spent more money on building his own, than if he went and just brought one off the shelf, your choice. Happy New Years.

Answer 5

First time building a computer sounds nerve racking at first. However, do not let that bother you at all. I have already searched it out for you, and here is what I have found. This sight will tell you what you will need to what you will have to do. All step by step lessons on how to build your first computer. When building a computer remember to put on the ESD wrist strap to prevent electric static discharge. Take care and good luck!
http://www.pcmech.com/byopc/




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Answer 6

Well there weren't computers that fast in 97 or at least not for consumers. Yours is a PIII! They just came out with the PII in 97!!!

First thing is get book on building a computer! Second buy your stuff on ebay!!!

Answer 7

probably start off with a book go to http://microcenter.com/search_results_e.phtml?coordinate_group=CBAB for manuals and books on building computers there are also parts for BYOPC at Microcenter

Answer 8

hahah, are u kidding 97?, i bought mine in 99 and its slower than urs, its 550Mhz, 64mb ram. LOL; but im buying a new one soon, tho it'd be cooler to make one.

Answer 9

the places where i learned was tomshardware.com as well as pcmech.com

**Pcmech was very helpful, it displays images and detailed step by step instructions

Answer 10

There are two good articles on PC magazine:

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1759,1921083,00.asp

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1759,1950183,00.asp

Good luck!