Putting a Computer Together?

[Ynog]

Never put a computer together.

Honest answer please, for someone who does have half a
brain, but has never put a computer together. How diffcult
is it?

Keep in mind though I have swapped out PCI cards,
hard drives and memory. Just never ever put them in
all together all at one time.

I know its easy to find some guide on a site on how to do it.
Is there anything to watch out for that someone might
screw up on the first try. (ie. Static Electricity)

I appreciate it

 

[Rkonster]

You should be fine.

You have worked inside a computer already, and there isn't really much more than that.

 

[copyfixer]

S.B. cake for you

 

[SemperFi]

If you can swap cards you can build computers! Motherboards just have more screws.

I like to install the memory, cpu, and fan with the board laying on the table before I put it in the case. Installing the heatsink fan is the worst part if you are building an athlon system. I don't think it is hard but I have read of people cracking the core's on the chip.

Semper Fi

 

[amdskip]

Once you start, you will keep buildiing system after system. I built one to replace our first gateway p166 and that was gonna be the only one I was gonna build. That was wrong, I've built close to 20 now and redone too many to count.

 

[starwarsdad]

Building is easy. Just read the manual for the motherbord to make sure the jumpers are in the correct position. I agree with SemperFi. I prefer to put the proc., HS/fan, and memory on the mobo before putting it in the case.

Good luck! Let us know what you build.

 

[Ynog]

Thanks everyone for the help

I am planning on building a
P4 2.53 GZ
Albatron PEV Pro Motherboard
512MB Cosair XMS 3200 Memory
80GB Western Digital
Lian-li PC-60 Case
Still thinking about the Graphics Card

I'll reply back when everything gets put together

 

[MrPhelps]

Your system looks like a good one, I built mine and I am very stupid so you are in great shape.




MrPhelps don't put your self down!!! ANANDTECH MODERATOR

 

[networkman]

One thing I'd suggest since you're first starting out: build the system outside the case first - that way you can check for basic functionality before you have to start working in cramped spaces(possibly) inside the case. Doing it this way will take a little more time, but if you run into a problem here, it's much easier to change components or backpedal to discover the problem. Additionally, knowing the system works okay outside the case can help you later if you have a problem inside the case such as a grounded electrical path on the bottom of a board or similar.

Just take your time, make notes for yourself along the way(if needed) and most important of all - have fun! It's a great learning experience and can be very rewarding and addictive.

 

[OZEE]

ynog

The biggest problem I have is plugging stuff in the right direction... Some of the connectors will be keyed -- if it doesn't seem to fit, don't force it. However alot of them aren't key -- you'd think the chances of getting 'em right would be about 50/50 -- but no, I get about 5 wrong for every 1 right. I even had one build that EVERY connect that could be backwards was backwards -- nothing worked.

Looks like a killer system. Just take your time and don't do anything stupid -- you'll do fine.

OZEE

 

[PCMarine]

Yes, it's really easy, just remember how the cables get plugged in! Like the red strip on the IDE cable points toward the power plug on the drive.

 

[copyfixer]

Suggestion is big ps with lots of fans. Keep it all cool. Go wild and add some lights, window, etc.

 

[alm4rr]

be careful when putting in the hsf (and don't forget the compound between fan and cpu) so as to not knock over any capacitors..... it can get cramped, esp if you have orangatang hands.


i like ati, so i would say an 8500 =)

also, while building it, don't be afraid to post to AT tech supp.
i would suggest you buy your big cost parts off the net using resellerratings and pricewatch or just use newegg and multiwave.

 

[eL3MeNT]

nice