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Almost every computer
needs these essentials: systemboard, CPU, RAM, hard drive, CD-ROM drive
(or you can substitute a DVD drive or CD-RW drive for added
functionality), floppy drive, case, power supply, video card, monitor,
keyboard, and mouse. And, most likely, you will also want a sound card and
modem. Make careful and informed decisions about every part you buy.
Selecting each
component requires reviewing your functionality, compatibility, and budget
needs and determining what parts meet your criteria. Select the
systemboard first, and then select the rest of the parts around this one
most important component. The Intel chip set is preferable to other brands
of chip sets. When selecting parts, including the systemboard, carefully
examine the documentation. Look for good documentation that you can
understand without struggling. When buying parts for your first assembly,
you should probably not use mail order. Buy from a reputable local dealer
who will allow you to examine a part and look at the documentation, and
who is willing and able to answer any technical questions you may have.
Know the return policy of the store and the manufacturer’s warranty for
the part.
If you can buy the
systemboard, CPU, and memory from the same dealer, who can help you
determine that all three are compatible, do so to avoid later problems
with compatibility. The documentation for the systemboard is quite
valuable. Make sure it’s readable and complete. Does the CPU need a
voltage regulator, heat sink, or fan? Ask the dealer for recommendations,
and read the documentation for the CPU. Often a dealer will sell a
systemboard with the CPU and fan already installed and jumpers on the
systemboard set correctly. After you have selected the systemboard, RAM,
and CPU, select the case and accompanying power supply. Remember the two
rules: the case must meet your predetermined functionality, and it must be
compatible with other parts (especially the systemboard).
Next, select the hard
drive and other drives. Does your BIOS on the systemboard support the IDE
or SCSI hard drive selected? Is there an IDE adapter on the systemboard?
Are connections available for the CD-ROM drive, floppy drive, removable
drive, and the like? If the video logic is not included on the systemboard
(for clone systemboards it probably will not be), select the video card
next, and make sure that you have an AGP or a PCI slot to accommodate it.
Next, select the hard drive, CD-ROM drive, and floppy drive and then the
peripherals, including a mouse, keyboard, and monitor.
Getting Ready For
Assembly: Final Preparations
When all parts are
purchased, prepare for the assembly well. Prepare a work area that is well
lit and uncluttered. Read all the documentation and plan the assembly
through, from beginning to end, before you start. If you have questions or
are unsure how to proceed, find the answers to your concerns before you
begin. For example, if you’re not sure how to set the jumpers on the
systemboard, even after you have read the documentation, take the
documentation to your technical support (dealer, service center, a
knowledgeable friend) and ask for help in interpreting the settings in the
documentation before you start the work. Often you can find a detailed
diagram of the systemboard on the manufacturer’s Web site complete with
proper settings for specific CPUs. While working, don’t get careless about
protecting against static. Always use the ground strap on your wrist.
Overview Of The
Assembly Process
Once the research is
done and the parts purchased, organize everything you’ll need to assemble
the PC. Have the parts with the accompanying documentation and software
available, together with your PC tools. You’ll need a safe place to work,
with a ground mat and ground strap. Be careful to follow all the safety
rules and precautions discussed at the beginning of this book. Work
methodically and keep things organized. If you find yourself getting
frustrated, take a break. Remember, you want the entire experience to be
fun!
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