I'm about to take a leap and build my own computer...?

Question

Just like everyone here at Yahoo answers has advised me to do. So, any tips or anymore advice, preferably from people who have or still build custom computers. Thanks.

Answer 1

I build custom computers all the time. The first step is deciding on the cpu, (amd or intel), then choosing the motherboard and researching that motherboard to learn what RAM has been tested and confirmed compatible, and so on...

Look in all the forums for reviews on the hardware before buying and always buy from reputable dealers like newegg.com as you may be unlucky and receive a defective part.

Learn how to troubleshoot problems in case something comes up during or after the build and, as with anything you do, be patient!

Answer 2

I owe a computer shop and we often build custom computers. The main thing is to balance the total computer. Buying a cheap processor and an expensive video card makes no sence. Or a big, expensive processor and a cheap video card.
Before you start building the computer take serious look at why you're wanting a new computer. Then check your budget for the computer. Ask yourself if there are any parts in your old computer that might go with your new computer.
Once that's done. Start by selecting a few good motherboards that have eveything you want. Take the time to scan the tech forums for user experience with the motherboard. Slowly trim your selection of motherboards down to two or three. Once again, check each for things that you value in the new computer (Sata vs Pata HHD support, DDR ram vs DDR2 ram, Sound chip, ethernet chip, video port (the newer PCI-e is an excellent choice),number of USB ports, etc.)
Browse the forums for interesting tid-bits about processors. Then select processors for each of the boards. Next shop for ram, check speeds, CL (CAS latence, lower is better) speeds, and price.
Finally, finish by considering the video, hard drive, optical drives and case.
Spend time considering your power needs, if you're building a hot, gaming machine a new, much more powerful power supply might be needed.
The most important thing is to not rush your parts selection. Buy the best parts that your budget will allow. Skimping on a critical component can lead to hours and hours of fustration and ruin what should be an exciting and enjoyable experience.
Lastly, invest a couple dollars in an antistatic wrist strap. They may not look all that cool, but saving a costly component from being destroyed by static electricity will make up for a little "geekishness."
If you need specific information about a part, how a part works or its installation, feel free to e-mail me.
Good Luck with your project.

Answer 3

You need some knowledge to build your own computer. There are two issues to deal with: your budget and your need (or your wish). If the budget isn't an issue, you want to choose the best hardware.

Here is the list of hardware you need to build a computer.
Consider in order:
1) Processor (Intel or AMD)
2) mainboard (many brands)
3) memory (RAM)
4) Case
5) Hard Drive
6) Removable Drive (DVD-Writer, etc.)
7) Display (Monitor)
8) Input Devices (Mouse, Keyboard, Web-Cam, Mic, etc.)
9) Main OS (Win-2K, XP, Vista, etc.)
10) Other software (such as Firewall, Anti-Virus, AntiSpyware, etc.)

It is not easy to build your own computer. You have to make a lot of right decisions.

Good luck.

Answer 4

Choose your processor first and move on from there. You'll need to determine what type of user you are to make that decision. Gamers need better processors, high end graphics cards and more RAM than an everyday or light user. Once you've chosen your processor you can choose your motherboard, then case and power supply. tigerdirect.com is another great site for purchasing hardware.

Answer 5

Great and welcome to the club. This might be of help.
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AgfQarCJ_FoWIvH34jGDfyvty6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20070626165146AAzAv5L&show=7#profile-info-f07926461bdcfe322b6a09357c11df76aa
http://www.guru3d.com/article/pcbuyguide/434/
http://arstechnica.com/guides/buyer/guide-200708.ars

After that YA post, I completed my 6th build, my first C2Duo, my low power E2140 rig. A month after, my daughter took my AMD gaming rig so I built another C2D but w/ an E6600. So right now, I am actually a newbie with Core2 Duo. Still tweaking from time to time.