Build Your Own Computer

Why Should You Build A Computer

Why would you want to build your own computer when you can (almost literally) go to the corner store and buy one? I'll tell you why! Because it's easy to build a computer, you know what you're getting when you build the computer yourself, and if you want to, you can upgrade any component at any time. You don't have to guess about the quality of the parts, and you don't have worry about something going out on your computer a few days after your 90 day warranty expires (unless you pay extra longer coverage). Almost every computer component that you use when you build your own computer will carry between a one year and three year warranty and some actually have a lifetime warranty.

I've been building computers for myself and others for close to 20 years. I'll help guide you through the process of selecting and installing the right parts and pieces to build a computer for exactly what you need. I'll discuss selecting your new computer's case, power supply, motherboard, processor (CPU) , memory, hard drive(s), multimedia drives, and video cards. After you've selected and purchased the parts, I'll guide you step-by-step through the complete computer assembly process. Throughout this site I'll do my best to explain things in everyday language and try to stay away from the geek speak.

I highly recommend reading through all of the pages on this site before selecting and buying anything. Many of the components required to build your own computer are dependant upon other components that you select. Because of this, you don't want to just start buying stuff. There's nothing more frustrating than starting to put your new computer together and suddenly finding out that something you've bought won't work with something else that you've bought and your whole computer build comes to a screeching halt. (Ask me how I know this?) Pay very close attention to what you're buying so this doesn't happen to you.

Buying Computer Components

Most of the components can be purchased at your local computer store or online at various retailers. I highly recommend buying your parts from Newegg.com. I have used them, I couldn't tell you how many times over the past four or five years, and have never had a single problem. They have, hands down, some of the best prices around. In most cases, I can purchase items from Newegg.com (including shipping) for less than I can purchase the same item locally at wholesale. One of the best things I like about their site is the customer reviews of items. This can be a big help in deciding what to buy.

Computer Cases
To build your own computer you need a case to put everything into. In this section, I'll discuss choosing the right computer case for your needs, whether that need is for a basic desktop computer, a high-end desktop or gaming computer, or a portable type to carry to your local LAN party.

Computer Power Supply
When you build your computer, the case you choose may or may not come with a power supply. In this section, I'll discuss the selection of the right power supply, either in conjunction with choosing a case, or as a separate item.

Computer Motherboard
The computer's motherboard can be one of the hardest things to make a decision on when building your own computer. In this section I'll guide you through the steps from determining your basic needs, narrowing down your selection, and then to your final decision about which motherboard is right for you.

Computer Processor (CPU)
The CPU, along with the computer's motherboard, is the heart and soul of your computer. In this section I'll discuss the various processors that are available, the differences between the different types, and the selection of the right processor for your home-built computer.

Computer Memory
The computer's memory can make a big difference in the performance of your computer. I'll help you decide what's best for building your own computer.

Computer Hard Drive
Your computer's hard drive determines not only how much software you can install and how much data you can keep on your new computer, but it can also have a big affect on system performance. In this section I'll cover the different types of hard drives available and the advantages or disadvantages of each type.

Computer Multimedia Drives
This section discusses the different types of internal and external CD, DVD, and USB drives. Depending on the type of computer you're building, you will probably need at least one type of multimedia drive. I'll discuss the different types available, and what type will be best for your computer build.

Computer Video Card
This section discusses the different types of computer video cards, high-end, CAD or gaming type video cards, versus basic cards for budget computers, and all kinds in between Depending on what type of computer you're building, choosing the right video card can make all the difference.

Computer Assembly
Putting it all together. This section covers step-by-step processes for installing and connecting all the different components that you've chosen to use to build your computer.