Buzz
This guide will walk you through the process of assembling a desktop computer using selected components. To successfully build a computer, you need to assess your computer usage needs and budget, choose the right components, and assemble them in the correct order.
Steps
Preparation Before Assembling the Computer
Identify your computer usage needs. Before purchasing components or setting a budget, you must know the purpose of the computer. For a regular desktop used for browsing the web and running basic programs (such as Microsoft Word and Excel), you can opt for older, cheaper components. However, for gaming or high-performance tasks, newer and more powerful components are necessary.
Note: You can buy a computer for general use at a price below 11.5 million VND. Gaming and editing computers typically range from 11.5 million to several tens of millions of VND.
Set your budget. Avoid overspending on your favorite components without considering your budget. You might find that you don't have enough left to purchase all the necessary parts for your computer. Define a minimum (for example, around 7 million VND) and maximum (say 9 million VND) budget, and try to stick within that range.
- Your analytical skills will also assist you while shopping. For instance, if you're aiming to spend around 2.5 million VND on the processor, but a newer and better model is reduced from 4.6 million VND to 2.7 million VND at the computer parts store, spending an additional 200 thousand VND might be a better long-term investment.
Understand the essential components. No matter how expensive your computer is, it still needs the following components:
- Processor — Acts as the "brain" of the computer.
- Motherboard — Serves as the link between all the components and the processor.
- RAM — Random Access Memory. The larger the RAM, the more "workspace" it provides, enhancing your computer's performance. Think of RAM like a desk: the bigger the desk, the more tasks you can do. A small desk is like having little RAM!
- Hard Drive — Stores data. You can opt for a traditional hard drive or choose a faster SSD if you want super-fast performance.
- Power Supply — Powers each component of the computer and connects it to the electrical outlet.
- Case — Essential for housing and cooling the components.
- Graphics Card — Processes images on the computer. Although most processors have built-in graphics processors (GPUs), you can purchase a dedicated graphics card if you plan to game or do high-level editing.
- Cooling System — Ensures the internal temperature of the case stays safe. This component is only necessary for gaming and editing computers; regular computers can use the built-in cooling system.
Buy components
Research where to buy components. Computer parts stores often display products for easy selection, but you may find similar items at lower prices by shopping online. Some popular online electronics stores include Tiki, Shopee, and Lazada.
- Don't overlook second-hand components, especially those labeled "Like New" or still in good condition. You can often buy these at incredibly discounted prices without compromising on quality.
Understand the components you wish to purchase. It’s important to read reviews and consumer websites for more information. This is just one crucial step, as everything else depends on the hardware’s performance.
- Look for articles on building budget PCs, how to choose components for assembly, and tips for making a computer that is both powerful and quiet.
- Check whether the product you want to buy has good reviews on order sites and other websites. Avoid promotional charts or figures, as these are often manipulated to look better than the actual product. Reputable tech review sites include Tinh Tế, Linus Tech Tips, Tom’s Hardware, or Gamers Nexus.
- After finding a well-reviewed part, also check its negative reviews. You might discover that while the component has strong features, it may not suit your needs.
Find the processor. The CPU is the heart of your computer’s performance. The higher the gigahertz (GHz) of the processor, the faster data will be processed. Many applications use multiple threads simultaneously, so multi-core processors can enhance performance.
- The processor will consume a large portion of your budget.
- Processors usually have 4 cores, 6 cores, or more. You only need a processor with fewer than 6 cores unless you want to build a high-performance gaming computer.
- The top two processor manufacturers are Intel and AMD. Generally, AMD offers better value for money.
Select a motherboard that fits your processor. Ensure that the motherboard is compatible with your CPU by checking the CPU socket type and motherboard specs. Other factors to consider when choosing a motherboard include:
- "Built-in Wi-Fi" (ensures your computer can connect wirelessly)
- Bluetooth
- Multiple RAM slots
- Graphics card support if necessary (PCIe x16 slot)
Purchase RAM. RAM is responsible for storing data for the running programs, so it’s crucial to select the correct size. Before buying RAM, verify which type your processor and motherboard support.
- Computers have a limit on the amount of RAM they can use, defined by the processor’s capacity (usually 64GB) and the applications in use. If a program only requires 1GB of RAM, adding more will not increase task execution speed. Typically, 8GB of RAM is sufficient, while gaming PCs require 16GB.
- Depending on your motherboard, you will either buy DDR3 or DDR4 RAM. The motherboard manual will tell you which type is compatible.
Buy a hard drive. Generally, buying a hard drive is straightforward as most drives are compatible with most motherboards and processors, but make sure the selected drive fits your case. A SATA hard drive with at least 500GB of storage is a good choice, ensuring that the drive comes from a trusted manufacturer like Western Digital, Seagate, or Toshiba.
- A basic hard drive typically has a speed of 7200 RPM.
- Hard drives can also use IDE connections instead of SATA, but SATA is newer and supported on all modern motherboards.
- If you want a smaller drive with faster data retrieval speeds, consider buying a solid-state drive (SSD). SSDs are pricier than standard hard drives and are typically used as secondary storage to larger hard drives.
- SSD drives usually come with SATA connectors, with newer models using NVMe M.2 or SATA M.2. Some motherboards may not support standard NVMe or M.2 connections.
Consider purchasing a dedicated graphics card if needed. A separate graphics card is essential for playing the latest games but isn't required for general use computers. If you're into watching or editing HD videos or gaming, it's necessary to get a dedicated GPU.
- Like all other components, ensure the graphics card is compatible with your motherboard. However, this issue is usually not common.
- The graphics card will consume about ⅓ of your gaming PC budget.
- Most Intel CPUs come with integrated graphics, so you don't need to buy a separate card unless you're looking to use the computer for office tasks, browsing, emailing, and occasional online gaming. AMD also offers processors like the 2200G and 2400G with strong integrated graphics suitable for playing games at lower settings.
- The graphics card is also referred to as a "video card" or "GPU".
Ensure the power supply can adequately power your computer's components. The power supply unit (PSU) provides electricity to all components in your system. Some cases come with a built-in PSU, while others may require one to be added. The PSU must provide sufficient wattage to power all components; don't worry that a higher wattage PSU will consume more electricity unnecessarily because it only provides the required amount of power when the computer is in use. The label on the PSU indicates the maximum wattage it can supply.
Tip: Choose power supplies from reputable manufacturers such as Seasonic, beQuiet, EVGA, or Corsair.
Select a case that's both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The computer case protects the internal components. Some cases come with a PSU, but if you're building a gaming PC, it's better to buy a separate PSU because pre-installed ones tend to be of lower quality.
- The case size depends on the number of hard drive bays, expansion slots, and the motherboard's size and type.
- Ensure the case can accommodate all components, including hard drives.
- Some cases restrict airflow, which can cause high-power components to overheat due to lack of ventilation.
Assemble the computer
Grounding yourself. Wear an anti-static wrist strap to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) from damaging your computer components. Alternatively, you can touch a large metal object like a heat sink to protect yourself from static buildup.
Open the case. Unscrew the side panel of the case (or push the panel back) to access the interior for your assembly work.
Install the power supply. Some cases come pre-installed with a power supply, while others require you to purchase and install one separately. Ensure the power supply is installed in the correct orientation, and make sure no components obstruct the fan.
- The power supply is typically mounted near the top or bottom of the case. You can determine the correct placement by checking the available space at the back of the case.
Install components onto the motherboard. It's best to do this before installing the motherboard into the case since the case might limit your ability to connect the components:
- Insert the processor into the motherboard socket, ensuring the correct alignment as indicated by the CPU and motherboard guides.
- Install the RAM into the motherboard by aligning the slots correctly (typically, it can only be installed in one direction).
- Connect the power supply to the motherboard’s power input.
- Locate (but don't connect) the SATA ports on the motherboard; these will be used to connect the hard drive later.
Apply thermal paste to the processor if necessary. Apply a small dot of thermal paste (roughly the size of a grain of rice or a small bean) onto the CPU. Using too much thermal paste won't benefit performance and can cause issues, such as paste spilling onto the motherboard's pins, potentially causing a short circuit and lowering the motherboard's resale value if you ever decide to sell it.
Tip: You don't need to apply thermal paste to a processor that already has a cooler, as the thermal paste has been pre-applied during the manufacturing process. Make sure to check underneath the cooler before applying any paste to the processor.
Attach the cooler. Coolers vary, so it's important to follow the processor's user guide.
- Most pre-installed coolers attach directly to the processor and clip into the motherboard.
- Aftermarket coolers usually come with a bracket that needs to be mounted under the motherboard.
- If your processor already has a cooler, skip this step.
Prepare the case. Remove the back panel of the case to allow proper installation of components.
- If the case has a dedicated slot for the hard drive, use the provided screws to secure it.
- You may need to install and connect the case fan before proceeding with other components. If so, follow the case's fan installation instructions.
Secure the motherboard. After installing the bracket, place the motherboard inside the case and align it with the rear panel. All rear ports must match the holes in the I/O shield.
- Use the provided screws to secure the motherboard to the bracket through the shielded screw holes on the motherboard.
Connect the case headers. The connectors are located on the motherboard near the front of the case. The order of connections will depend on which are easiest to attach first. Be sure to connect the USB ports, Power and Reset buttons, LED indicators, hard drive, and audio cables. The motherboard manual will indicate where each connector goes.
- You can only connect the headers in one direction. Do not force them into position.
Install the hard drive. This process may vary depending on the case, but generally follows these steps:
- Remove the front panel of the case (if you're installing an optical drive, place it closer to the top of the case).
- Position the hard drive in the designated space (usually near the top of the case).
- Tighten the necessary screws to secure the hard drive in place.
- Connect the SATA cable from the hard drive to the SATA port on the motherboard.
Connect the power supply to essential components. If the power supply has not yet been connected to the necessary components, ensure it is connected to the following parts:
- Motherboard
- Graphics card
- Hard drive
Complete the computer assembly. After assembling and connecting all the computer components, ensure that no cables obstruct airflow, then close the case.
- If you purchased a cooling system, install it before proceeding with other tasks. Refer to the cooling system's installation guide for detailed instructions.
- Many cases have shields that can slide or screw into place on the case frame.
Use the computer
Connect the computer to a power source. Use the power cable to connect the computer to a wall outlet or power strip.
- First, plug one end of the power cable into the power input at the back of the case.
Connect the monitor to the computer. Typically, you will use the graphics card output near the bottom of the case, though some motherboards may have this port located on the right or left side of the case.
- The output here is usually a DisplayPort or HDMI port.
Turn on the computer.Power
Tip: If you experience issues during startup or if the computer doesn't power on, disconnect it from the power source, open the case, and check all connections.
Install the operating system Windows or Linux. Windows is compatible with all desktop computers and offers many features (such as Bluetooth), but you must purchase a Windows license if you don't have a product key. Linux is a free operating system, though not all computer hardware may be supported.
- If you don’t have an installation USB, you’ll need to create one on another computer before you can install the operating system.
Driver Installation. After installing the operating system, you need to install the drivers. Most hardware you purchase comes with a driver software disk to ensure the hardware functions properly.
- The latest versions of Windows and Linux operating systems will automatically install most drivers when the computer is connected to the internet.
Tips
- Some components may have a protective plastic layer to prevent scratches. Be sure to remove this plastic to avoid any burning plastic smells during use.
- Each power cable can only be attached in one direction, but you still need to apply force to connect the cable head to the port. If you are using a newer power supply with an EPS 8-pin 12V connector and a PCI Express 8-pin connector, avoid using excessive force when attaching the cable.
- If you are installing a cooling system instead of a standard fan, run a 24-hour test to check for any leaks before fully installing the components in your computer.
- You can use zip ties to carefully bundle all the cables together and organize them so they do not obstruct airflow.
- If you purchased the Microsoft Windows OEM version with a license sticker, make sure to attach the sticker to the side of your computer case for easy reference during installation.
- Some power supplies come with a built-in 115/230V switch. If you're in the US, use the 115V setting.
Warnings
- Prevent static discharge when installing components. Wear an anti-static wristband or regularly ground yourself by touching the metal part of the computer case before handling any parts.
- Ensure that all components are compatible with the motherboard!
- Be cautious when working around sharp metal edges on the computer case. These edges can easily cut into your skin, especially with smaller cases.
- Avoid purchasing computer parts from unreliable sellers online; you might be scammed or receive faulty components.
- Choose a power supply that fits your needs and is produced by a reputable company, as cheaper alternatives may fail and damage your system.
- Do not touch the resistors or pins on the CPU or socket.
- Wash your hands before assembling the computer.
