Should i build a computer slowly or buy it all at once?

Question

I'm wanting to build a very decent HTPC but i dont have the money to buy it all at once. Like in 2 weeks i can buy the memory the motherboard and the sound card. 2 weeks later i can buy the graphics card and the processor...2 weeks later....so on and so fourth. I want to watch it build in front of my eyes. But i was wondering....what if a part does not work? I have to wait for all the parts to come to put it together so i wont find out for months if a part is bad.....what about the return policy? Most places have a 30 days return poloicy.....what do you think?

Answer 1

I used to do that on my 486. But in today's world, a different problem. I would suggest you save up the money, then buy the whole thing at once. :)

Answer 2

I know it is possible to build a computer and I would feel good if the computer I am using is built by me. It may cost less.
But I recommend to buy one ready to use. Less headache to your head and to your wallet.

The risks when building it by yourself:
- the components may not work well between (different brands, type and model may not support each other well, even the universal branded ones)
- the components are built at the same board (cheaper for the manufacturer): this includes the processor and slots for memory and the video card for example are on the same motherboard (if any of them is defective you will not know until start testing the computer).
- Memory may also come defective and make your computer work not quite correctly.
- the HD may not be compatible.
- Graphic card may also come defective

Additional risks, as your budget is not complete right now, you plan a long-term 'construction':
- you may not feel like to touch your project for a while. It could be years until finish it.
- Technology changes every minute. When you get the money to buy additional components, many computer related standards may have been replaced.

Answer 3

Yes, it OK to buy this way. The only thing I would be worried about is something not work and by the time you know you can not return it. If, you understand.
You could just save the money back and order all together and may save some on shipping.
IF, you decide to go through and order as you have money, I would buy in the order of installation and install as I get;
Case, Power Supply, MOBO (I mount the Processor before installing the MOBO), Processor (and Fan), RAM, HDD, CD/DVD/Floppy (Whatever), Graphics etc. I think I covered most.