Those of you looking to upgrade to a new computer and want to have a go at building one yourself, you have come to the right place.

Over the next few weeks I will be developing a simple guide to building your own desktop computer. This guide will explain everything that you will need to get started on a modern computer from the tools required to the software you may find useful. Feel free to comment if you think something has been left out.

Also, if you need some help deciding between Windows XP and Windows Vista you may want to check out my other blog post “XP vs Vista”

 

The Essentials

Before you even pick up a price list you will need to make sure you have the necessary tools for the job. Thankfully this list becomes smaller as PC hardware becomes more streamlined and easy to install.

Phillips Head Screwdriver
Thermal Paste
Torch/Good Lighting
Anti-Static Wrist Strap

 

What Parts Do I Need?

The basic components of a modern PC are as listed below. Be sure to include all of these parts when it comes time to purchase.

Case
Motherboard
Processor (CPU)
Memory (RAM)
Power Supply
DVD Drive
Keyboard
Mouse
LCD Screen
Speakers

 

Hardware Selection

Now that you have everything you need to build your new computer, its time to find the right parts for you. This step can be the most daunting of all - deciding on suppliers, brands, models and quantities. In actual fact this decision is not nearly as complicated as it seems. Below are some basic recommendations according to your needs.

Processor (CPU)

Basic home computer running Windows XP - AMD AM2 X2 5200+ (Dual Core)

Advanced home computer running Windows XP - AMD AM2 X2 6400+ (Dual Core)

Gaming computer running Windows XP - Intel Q6600 (2.4GHz Quad Core)

Basic home computer running Windows Vista - AMD AM2 X2 6400+ (Dual Core)

Advanced home computer running Windows Vista - Intel Q6600 (2.4GHz Quad Core)

Gaming computer running Windows Vista - Intel Q9450 (2.66GHz Quad Core)

Memory (RAM)
Basic home computer running Windows XP - 1GB DDR2

Advanced home computer running Windows XP - 2GB DDR2

Gaming computer running Windows XP - 3 - 4GB DDR2

Basic home computer running Windows Vista - 2GB DDR2

Advanced home computer running Windows Vista - 3GB DDR2

Gaming computer running Windows Vista - 4GB DDR2

Video Card
Basic home computer running Windows XP - 256MB 8400GS

Advanced home computer running Windows XP - 512MB 8600GT

Gaming computer running Windows XP -512MB 8800GT/512MB 9800GTX

Basic home computer running Windows Vista - 512MB 8600GT

Advanced home computer running Windows Vista - 512MB 9600GT

Gaming computer running Windows Vista - 512MB 8800GT/512MB 9800GTX

Power Supply
Basic Computer - 430W

Advanced - 600W

Gaming - 750W+

For most users these parts are going to be the only ones which contribute to the overall performance of your computer (gaming PCs aside). For the other components its basically a case of you get what you pay for. If you have the budget to go with a high end case for example you are generally going to get less noise, better cooling and a much easier installation.

 

Where Do I Get My Parts?
All PC stores will be able to supply you with the basic parts you’ll need to get you going so if you have a local supplier nearby then this may be a great place to start, just be aware that no supplier stocks every possible part so brands and models may differ from store to store. If you are like me and don’t have time to stand in line at a computer store to get your parts then an online shop may be much more useful to you. I personally prefer to use IT Megastore (www.itmegastore.com.au) where you can find your parts, pay for them online and have them delivered to your door.

 

Time To Build
Once you have all of your parts and tools its time to get started. Firstly find a clean dry place where you can put your parts withing losing or damaging them.

 

Important: Before you do anything it is essential to understand that static electricity can be very harmful to the parts in your computer. It is highly recommended that you have an anti-static wrist strap to help reduce amounts of ESD (Electrostatic Discharge). Most computer stores will have these in stock.

 

Go to Step 1 - Case