Geeks On Site Advise You On How to Build Your Own Computer Part III

Nov. 2, 2010 - PRLog -- In the previous two articles in this series we introduced basic computer components, now it’s time to put the pieces together.   So get ready to learn more- and do not worry – this is not a “how to” manual for heavy machinery!

In this article we will explain the equipment for 2 types of computers – one using a Mid-Range processor, and other using a High-End processor (mid-range and high end being defined by prices), having those two processors as starting points. To make it even easier for you, we are giving you a list of components those two computers will have in common:

•   Motherboard - Asus EVO Desktop (be sure the motherboard is compatible with the CPU you are buying!)
•   Monitor -  LCD monitor, Acer X193HQL 18.5”
•   PC case - comes with the power supply, which distributes power to the hardware components – (consider how much space you need, and of course, be sure the motherboard will fit into it!)
•   RAM memory (depends on which operating system you will be using) – you should buy the memory depending on how fast you want your computer to run, but always try to buy as much as you can; (for the high end computer you will need at least 2GB or more).
•   Hard drive -  this depends on how much information you want to save
•   CD/DVD writer - very important gadget nowadays! Unless you’re installing an application online, almost all computer software and applications are using CDs to install, so without this component, your goose is cooked!
•   USB reader – Necessary if you want to back up, read, or copy data from a portable, flash memory card
•   Video card – if you are considering a high end computer you should consider investing in a high quality video card
•   LAN card -  not really necessary unless you want to transfer data faster from one computer to other
•   Keyboard and mouse – this is pretty self explanatory

We did not include an operating system (you should buy one supported by the type of CPU you are going to be using).

Here are the final products:

Mid range computer - will use a mid-range processor, such as Intel Core 2 Duo E7500. This is the type of computer widely used among regular computer users. Even though it is not using the latest CPU model, it’s close enough. These computers are reliable and strong for most tasks, while keeping in mind we mean as far as building a computer for personal use.  Want to play games? Sure you can, unless something revolutionary comes out, and that might just happen, that requires a bit more than this computer can do.  Want to bring home some work from the office?  This computer should be able to handle the overflow from your office (spreadsheets and materials for a presentation to name of few things.)   Want to watch a DVD or video? Sure! But do not forget, the better resolution your monitor has, the more you will enjoy the view.  The approximate price of this computer, using the mid-range processor and the rest of the components would be around $950 and some change.  Of course, you can shop around for special deals to get a better price.

High end computer – with a high-end processor such as the Intel Core i7-965 Extreme Edition, this little number will thrill you with its performance, including its speed. The ultimate toy, this computer is just waiting for you to play with it.  What is so good about this computer? Well, probably the fact that you can do whatever you want on it. Ok, let’s not exaggerate; you cannot watch holographic movies, but otherwise…  You can perform a myriad of tasks on it; from writing essays in Word to editing movies.  The approximate price of this computer with the high-end processor and the rest of the components would be around $2, 500.  Ahem, we did say high end right?  

In conclusion, understanding how a computer is put together is hopefully not as hard as it may have once seemed.  However, we still feel it is your best bet to leave the actual building of your computer to a professional.  We just wanted you to know the process, so you have a better idea of what that professional is actually doing.

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