Bookmark this PCSTATS
guide for future reference.
Assembling your own PC is
not hard. I just want to clear that up from the start, since I'm often surprised
when somebody praises me for my computer 'expertise' because I can, for example, install
memory in their systems. Installing memory is an exercise roughly comparable in difficulty to cleaning
the lint out of a dryer and putting the filter back in the right
way.
Modern computer systems are designed to be easy to
fit together, and they are. The majority of components are keyed so they will
only fit a certain way, for one thing, and everything is standardized. This is
not to say that it is foolproof, but perhaps foolresistant would be
true.
A couple of years working as
a Tech at a computer store taught me that some folks should not ever
be allowed near a computer that is not securely locked behind a
bombproof enclosure. But for most people I think, building a computer from a pile of
components just requires a little guidance to get them on the right
track.
The thing
is, the majority of non-techie people that I know have this almost superstitious
awe of computers which requires them to make pilgrimages to the local computer store
every time they want something added, upgraded, or replaced in their
machine.
I have to admit that charging $65
for the 10 minutes of labour required (computer must be left for service
overnight of course) is somewhat thrilling.... though really not necessary if you know a
few basic things about what lies under the hood so to
speak.
The key
then, is to familiarize people with computers as another appliance that may
sometimes need a little attention, and not just as a magic box that enables them
to use Photoshop. Building a computer will do this. Call it your own little
self-help project. Plus, you can always tip
few dollars from the money you'll save on labour to us in
gratitude. :)
This
guide aims to be a simple guide to building your own home computer from
easily available components available from local, or online retailers. Now, let's get started
and show just how easy building your own PC really can
be.