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Pastimes : Computer Learning -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: Sexton O Blake who wrote (74252)	2/23/2011 8:34:43 AM
From: thecow	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 110626

I build my own. It isn't hard at all. I am very, very bad at anything mechanical and I have built my last five or six machines. If I can do it, anyone can. The instructions that come with the parts are usually easily followed and if you do have a problem you can bet someone on the troublesome item's forum has run into it too. The mobo is easy to put in. Just put the standoffs in and you'll probably have to put in either 6 or 9 small screws. The scariest part for me is always putting the cpu cooler. I'm afraid of using too much force clamping it down and breaking the cpu in the process. If you go for a really good graphics card make sure these is room in your case for it. The top of the line cards are huge and can hit the hard drive bays. You need a good size working space so you don't have to keep digging through a pile of boxes for the right screws and parts and I know as "wimpy" as it may sound, a grounded wrist strap will prevent static electricity from ruining a part. It's a worthwhile minor purchase.

To: Sexton O Blake who wrote (74252)	2/23/2011 1:14:08 PM
From: PMS Witch	1 Recommendation Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 110626

Building a computer. . . I have a deep discount computer store withing comfortable driving distance where I can get the components I need. If it weren't for this place, I'd be dealing with Newegg. They'll assemble a system for $50. I use a spreadsheet to help me decide on components. That way, I can do the build mentally first. Compatibility issues are far easier to resolve with keystrokes than driving to the store and making exchanges. Installing the CPU cooling isn't fun for me. I don't find thermal paste friendly. The amount needed is really tiny. Hint: drip coffee filter material does a superb job of cleaning mistakes. intel.com Hint: Ask Intel, and they'll send you some thermal paste, for free! (Or you could just buy some.) I value neatness -- especially with the wiring. Route all the wires first and make the connections later. It makes the changing things easier. Pay attention to anything loose. I like using really long screwdrivers because they allow me to keep my knuckles and metal edges well separated. Be sure fan blades rotate freely -- and that they're pushing the air the right direction. If your case has some extra room, consider using some Velcro to mount a screwdriver inside. This trick has saved me more than a few extra return trips from under my desk. It's REALLY IMPORTANT that you don't apply power to the power supply unless it's connected to a load! (A switching PSU without a load can self-destruct.) Windows 7 will run for 30 days without activation. DON'T activate during the installation. (You'll "consume" your key.) I hope this helps. Cheers, PW. P.S. When disassembling a system, I used to find the big power cable to the motherboard a challenge to remove. Now I use a giant pair of pliers for this. The pliers are so big that they can grip the connector without touching the wires. I can use both hands and wiggle. (This connector has a "clip" that must be squeezed for release. It "clicks" into place solidly.) Case: antec.com

To: Sexton O Blake who wrote (74252)	2/25/2011 12:02:18 AM
From: shadowman	Respond to of 110626

I buy the components and assemble myself. and this is how and where I do it. Message 27185797 For a the first attempt online guides come in handy... pcguide.com mysuperpc.com

To: Sexton O Blake who wrote (74252)	2/25/2011 12:38:18 AM
From: shadowman	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 110626

Like thecow says it really is pretty easy to assemble a computer. I find that checking out a specific motherboard on newegg and reading the buyer comments about that MB usually clears up any questions I might have about compatible memory. For me the biggest pita is connecting the wiring (headers) from the front case panel.. reboot button..on/off button..USB connectors, front panel audio out header.. etc. They are usually a mess of small wires with little clips on the end that you attach to the proper connections on the motherboard. The motherboard manual has diagrams showing where they connect, not all that hard, but it usually is a pain connecting some of them...everything else is fairly easy. The motherboard (some) manufacturers have made it easier though with modular plugs so that not all the connection have to be connected individually. I'm not a pro. I've built a bunch of pc's for friends and relatives over the past 7-8 years. Never had a problem. I've always taken the approach that I do it when I feel like it..sometimes I'll spread it out over a few days. I've done it as quickly as 2-3 hours, but I work best when I take my time. Take your time..less stress..especially the first time you do it. It's like learning to ride a bike..once you know it becomes almost automatic.