How to Build a PC

This is how to build a PC.

Step 1: Ground Yourself

Before you start touching your computer components make sure you use an anti-static mat if you have one and ground yourself.

Step 2: Open Computer Components

Before you start building your computer open all of your computer components and lay them out ready for use.

Step 3: Lay Motherboard Out and Insert CPU

To start building your computer, lay the motherboard on one of your boxes for elevation, and insert your CPU. Make sure the metal arm is up on the CPU socket, match up the triangles on the socket of the motherboard and the processor. Add thermal paste to the CPU in the size of a pea.

Step 4: Connect Components

After you insert the CPU, you may start connecting components to your motherboard. Place the CPU fan on the motherboard so you can easily access the 4 pin connector for the CPU fan. Make sure the metal is over the plastic parts then pull the lever down to secure the CPU fan. Next is the ram. Open the ram slots to allow the ram to insert. If you have 2 sticks of ram, make sure you place them in the same color lanes. Last of all is the graphics card. All you have to do is push the graphics card into the slot until it clicks. Last of all, connect the sound card if you have one.

Step 5: Post

Plug in the power-supply to your motherboard, then connect the monitor to your graphics card. Take a screw driver then touch the + and - pins from the front panel at the same time to start the components. If you hear a beep once and you have video on your monitor, you are good to start putting the components in your case.

Step 6: Align Standoffs

Align standoffs with motherboard holes in the case. If you don't insert the standoffs, your motherboard will short and will not work.

Step 7: Insert Motherboard and the Power Supply

After you have inserted the standoffs, insert the motherboard on the standoffs. Make sure you insert your IO shield first. After that is done, you may now insert your power supply.

Step 8: Connect the Power Supply to the Motherboard.

Once you have inserted your power supply, you may first insert your 24-pin connector to the motherboard. Make sure the keys line up to make sure it connects correctly. Mount the power supply to the case then screw it in. After that you may connect the 4-pin connector.

Step 9: Mount Hard Drive

You may now mount your hard drive. Some hard drives have rails, locking features, and slots, your case may vary. The one we are using has the locking feature.

Step 10: Front Panel Connections Graphics Card, and CD-ROM

Insert your CD-ROM and connect the SATA cable to your motherboard. After you have connected all of your components, you may start connecting your front panel connections. Your graphics card may have a six pin connector, if so, make sure to connect that first.

Step 11: Cable Management

After your computer is built, it is always good to manage your cables to optimize airflow and to make sure the wires won't run into the fans. Cable management is usually done with cable ties.

Step 12: Side Panel and Connections

After your PC is done, put your side panel back on. Make sure it boots up before you add all of your peripherals like a keyboard and mouse.

Step 13: Enjoy Your PC

Enjoy!