HOW TO BUILD A COMPUTER: HARDWARE BASICS

Raymond Payne

BASIC PARTS

In order to successfully build a computer, you need a few standard parts

Processor (CPU) Motherboard RAM Graphics Card Hard Drive(s) Optical Drive Case Power Supply

What is the CPU (Processor)?The processor completes any task you give to the computer. Often confused with the motherboard, the CPU is the “brain” of the computer. Stronger CPUs can carry out more tasks with better efficiency.

That being said, the CPU is one of the most expensive components to building a machine. Depending on your needs, you can decide whether you need a high or low end model.

Gamers and graphic designers typically need a high end CPU.

The MotherboardThe motherboard is like the “heart” of the computer. I connects each of the computer’s components to one another and contains many of the machine’s main features including USB ports, expansion card slots, and ultimately determines how big the computer will be.

Motherboards also contribute to whether you can build a low, medium, or high quality machine.

RAMRandom Access Memory (RAM) functions as the computer’s short-term memory. RAM stores quick-access data used to help programs run as smooth as possible.

Users who run many programs at once need more RAM. So again, graphic designers, gamers, web developers, and general heavy program users are going to need high caliber RAM.

Graphics Card (GPU)The GPU is specifically designed to process graphics. This is connected to the monitor and accurately displays content. 3D games generally need a dedicated GPU card to create complex images.

Hard Drive(s)Probably one of the most discussed computer parts, the hard drive stores all of the computer’s data. This includes the operating system, documents, music, movies, programs, and more.

How much data you would like to store on your computer will determine which size hard drive you will need to buy. More data of course means a larger hard drive.

Different types of hard drives also affect the overall speed of the computer.

Optical DriveThe CD or DVD drive basically makes up the optical drive. These days, not every computer will have or need an optical drive. Many ultra books lack an optical drive for the sake of portability and appearance.

However, CD and DVD drives haven’t quite gone the way of the floppy and are generally recommended for DIY standing desktop computers.

CaseThe case holds the computer together. It’s like the skeletal frame and “skin” of the computer. Cases come in many different designs. Some even include LED lights for added flair.

The case is less about how the computer will run and more about personal preference. So feel free to get creative or shop around for the perfect fit.

*Note: the case DOES have to fit whatever goes inside. So keep in mind how big your hard drive and motherboard are before buying a case.

Power SupplyThe power supply is exactly what it sounds like. It directs electricity to the other components in the machine, turning them on. High performance computers will need a higher wattage power supply than a lower performance one.

This is the very last thing you shop for after you figure out what exactly is going into the computer.

IS THAT IT?

These are the very basic components to building a computer from the ground up. Of course, you can later determine whether you’d like to install a Wi-Fi card or internal SD card.

Shop around for a quality monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Some monitors can be used for the computer and television.

Do you need Bluetooth capabilities? Or perhaps your high-performance machine will need extra fans for better cooling?

Definitely take some time to think about the type of computer you need, what you will be using it for, and how you would like it to function.

STAY TUNED

Keep an eye out for the next lesson on building

a computer, coming soon.

Good luck!