Learn how to build a PC

Posted May 7, 2006

There are many reasons for wanting to build your own PC. Building your own PC can be an enjoyable learning experience (especially when it works first go!) and greatly improve your understanding of hardware systems. In addition, building your own system may be the only option if you've sourced the individual components from different supplies, or if you're building a machine from parts that have been lying around. Further, building your own PC can help your gain skills in PC troubleshooting as well.

This article describes the general procedure for building a PC from individual components, rather than focus on any specific type of hardware. In which case, it is important to always consult the installation guide for each piece of hardware in your system before commencing the build. This article assumes you have a basic understanding of computer hardware terminology.

Electrostatic discharge (ESD)

Perhaps the greatest threat facing system builders is electrostatic discharge (ESD). ESD is the sudden discharge of static electricity causing a momentary current flow that can weaken or permanently damage semiconductor components (such as the processor, memory, motherboard, and video card). Therefore it is imperative that you follow the correct ESD storage and handling procedures.

All components that are susceptible to ESD damage are shipped in antistatic bags. Always keep these components in their correct packaging until you need to use them. You'll also need to purchase an antistatic wrist strap. This device ensures that your body has not built up a static charge that can damage sensitive components when you handle them. When handling sensitive components, always handle them by the edges. Never allow your fingers to touch any electrical connectors or electronic components.

Hardware components

To build a working system, you'll need the following minimum components:

» Computer case and power supply
» Motherboard (mainboard) and mounting hardware
» Processor (or central processing unit - CPU)
» Processor heatsink and fan assembly
» Memory module (RAM)
» Hard disk drive
» CD or DVD ROM drive
» Video card (optional if not integrated on motherboard)
» Network card (optional)
» Floppy disk drive (optional)
» Data cables for connecting drives
» Installation guides for each component
» Monitor
» Keyboard
» Mouse
» Operating system installation disks
» Any additional driver software shipped with hardware components

The starting point is to decide on the type and speed of processor your system will be based on. Once this has been decided, choose a motherboard that can support that type of processor. You can now choose a type of memory module that is supported by the motherboard. be sure to also choose a hard disk drive that the motherboard can support. Finally, choose a case that's big enough for your build and that suits the form factor (physical dimensions) of your motherboard.

Tools and equipment

At the very least you'll need the following tools and equipment:

» Selection of flat-head screwdrivers
» Selection of Phillips head screwdrivers
» Long-nose pliers
» Torch (flashlight)
» Antistatic wrist strap
» Clean static-free workbench

Commencing the build

1.	Familiarise yourself with the motherboard layout.
	Read the motherboard installation guide and familiarise yourself with the motherboard layout. A typical arrangement is shown in the diagram below:


2.	Install the motherboard.
	Install any plastic spacers that came with the case in the correct positions to support the motherboard. Ensure there case is not plugged in to the mains power outlet. Following the correct ESD prevention procedures, carefully remove the motherboard from its antistatic bag and correctly position it in the case. Use the screws supplied to firmly mount the motherboard.

3.	Connect the front panel lights and switches
	Consult the documentation that came with your case (or do some clever tracing!) to locate connections to the case front panel. These will include the power light and switch, reset switch, hard disk light, loudspeaker and so on. Connect these to the appropriate connectors on the motherboard (consult the motherboard documentation.

4.	Carefully install the memory module(s) in their correct slots
	Following the correct ESD prevention procedures, carefully remove the memory module(s) from their antistatic bag and correctly insert them in the memory module sockets, begging with Slot 1. Push the clips on each side of the slots inwards so that the memory modules are firmly in place.

5.	Carefully install the processor
	Most processors are installed using a ZIF (zero insertion force) socket. Lift the ZIF socket's leaver fully upwards, and, following the correct ESD prevention procedures, carefully install the processor. Most processors are keyed (should only go in one way) and should not require any force (see picture below).


6.	Install the processor heatsink and fan assembly
	If the heatsink and fan assembly is separate to the processor, install it as per the installation guide and lock it into place.
	Warning! Be sure to connect the CPU fan to the CPU fan power connector on the motherboard, otherwise your seriously risk damaging the CPU!

7.	Connect the power supply to the motherboard
	Connect the power supply to the motherboard's primary power connector. Remember to connect any secondary power connectors to the motherboard such as the 12V ATX power connector.

8.	Install the hard disk drive.
	Make sure that any jumpers on the hard disk are set so that it's configured as a "master" drive. Slide the drive in the appropriate drive bay in the case and secure it in place with screws. Connect power to the hard disk as well as the data cable from the drive to the primary IDE or SATA connector on the motherboard (see diagram below).



9.	Install the CD/DVD ROM drive
	Remove the appropriate panel on the front of the case and carefully slide the drive in the appropriate drive bay and secure it in place with screws. Connect power to the drive as well as the data cable from the drive to the secondary IDE connector on the motherboard.

10.	Install the floppy disk drive
	If you're installing a floppy disk drive, remove the appropriate panel on the front of the case and carefully slide the drive in the appropriate drive bay and secure it in place with screws. Connect power to the drive as well as the data cable from the drive to the floppy connector on the motherboard.

11.	Install the video/graphics card
	If you're installing a video/graphics card (rather than using the one integrated on the motherboard) install it in the correct slot (normally AGP) following the correct ESD prevention procedures. Secure the card in place with a screw.

12.	Install the network interface card (NIC)
	If you're installing a network card (rather than using the one integrated on the motherboard) install it in the correct slot (normally PC1) following the correct ESD prevention procedures. Secure the card in place with a screw.

13.	Connect the monitor, keyboard, and mouse
	Connect the monitor, keyboard, and mouse to the appropriate connector at the back of the case. Be sure to also connect power to the case and monitor.

14.	Turn it on!
	Power system on and allow it to boot. The system will register successful completion of the POST (power on self test) with a single beep. If you get no beeps, continuous beeps, or some other beeping pattern, turn the system off and check your build then try again.

15.	Insert the operating system disc
	Insert the operating system (e.g. Windows XP) installation disc into the CD/DVD ROM drive.

16.	Configure the system
	Reboot the system again and this time go into the set-up utility (CMOS set-up) by tapping the Delete key during start-up (or as prompted on the screen). Set the primary hard disk configuration to "auto detect" and set the boot sequence to boot from the CD/DVD drive first and the hard drive second.

17.	Install the operating system
	Save changes, exit the set-up utility and allow the system to reboot. After successful completion of the POST, the operating system should begin to install off the installation disc. Follow all on-screen instructions to the successful installation of the operating system. This could take 45 minutes or more. At some stage you'll be prompted as to how you want your hard disk partitioned and which file system to use.

18.	Install hardware drivers
	Once the operating system has successfully loaded you should have a working machine with basic functionality (next time you're in the set-up utility, remember to change the boot sequence to the hard disk first). Install any additional driver software that came with your motherboard, video card, and so on. Refer to the installation instructions for these devices.

19.	Configure your network settings
	Once the operating system has successfully loaded you should have a working machine with basic functionality. Install any additional driver software that came with your motherboard, video card, and so on. Refer to the installation instructions for these devices.

20.	Install your software
	Once the system is working correctly, you can install your favourite office applications, games, and other utilities.

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