The thrilling thing about owning and using computers is that you don’t only have to sit back and wait for already built computers, especially if you fall among the category of high-end users who require computers for uses such as gaming. Several PC companies not only sell already built PCs, but they also offer PC parts to enable users to build their own. If you are interested in building a gaming PC, you should visit the US-reviews platform for a list of selected PC companies before choosing which one to patronize.
Building your gaming PC is one of the quickest ways to ensure that you enjoy a heightened gaming experience especially if you are a novice. Successfully doing this can be intimidating, but with guidance, you might find it easier than you had imagined.
In building your gaming PC, the first thing you need is to prepare your PC building tools. You will need an insulated workspace and a set of magnetic screwdrivers. The next thing you need is to select a PC case for your system. They come in three general sizes which include full tower, mid-tower, and mini-tower. The cases however vary according to manufacturers and are typically made based on motherboard sizes. The third thing you need is to get your gaming PC parts. You need to create a list of components and make research to know which components would be compatible with one another. To get reliable components needed in building your PC, it is advisable to read computer store reviews before selecting which computer store to patronize or visit.
The PC components/ parts you will be needing to include Central processing unit (CPU), Motherboard, Memory (RAM), Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), Storage, Power Supply Unit (PSU), System cooling, Gaming peripherals, and Operating system(OS). After all these are set, you can apply the following guides in building your PC:
Install the CPU
Remove the motherboard from its package. Look for the CPU socket, (this will be covered by a protective cap). Open the CPU socket, remove the CPU from its packaging and gently insert the CPU into the CPU socket. Thereafter, ensure it is balanced before gently lowering the retention lever that covers the CPU socket.
Install M.2 SSD
Although this is optional, find the M.2 SSD slot on your motherboard (you can consult the user manual that comes with your motherboard to find it), then gently slide the M.2 SSD into its slot, push it down and tighten it with its screw.
Install CPU Coolants
CPU coolers come in a variety of models and types. You should consult the manual that came with your CPU cooler to be guided on how to undertake the installation process.
Install the RAM
Consulting the motherboard user manual would help you ascertain how many RAM slots your motherboard has, and how to arrange and fit the RAMs accordingly.
Mount the Power Supply
Unpack the PSU, and set aside its cables. Mount the PSU by observing your case to know where the PSU should go. You should ensure the fans are faced outside the case (for a case that comes with a vent) to ensure that the PSU has access to optimal airflow. Should your case be without a vent, mount the PSU with the fan facing upwards. Attach them using the screws that come with the PSU. The cable management features in your case would help you know how to attach the cables to your PSU.
Install the Motherboard
Insert the motherboard into an unattached input/output shield that comes with the motherboard. Make sure your cables have been fixed in the right places before doing so. Tighten the motherboard using the provided screws before you connect the power supply to the motherboard.
Install the GPU
Find the Ple* × 16 slot on your motherboard. Go through the user manual to enable you to determine the most suitable of the slots to use (should your motherboard have more than one slot). After removing the GPU from its antistatic packaging, carefully insert it into the Ple* ×16 slot. Screw it and connect it to the power supply (for a GPU that requires auxiliary power connectors).
Install the Storage Drives
Check your computer case to ascertain the sizes of the Drivebay. They could come with plastic switches (for tool-free bays) or metal brackets. HDDs and SSDs come in two major sizes which are 2.5 and 3.5-inch storage drives. For tool-free bays, unlock the lever or switch, pull out its tray and place your drive on the tray. If you have to fit a 2.5-inch drive into a 3.5-inch tray, make sure you tighten it with a screw. The metal brackets typically have slots or holes in them where you can slide the drives, and fasten it will a screw. After inserting the storage drive, connect it to the power supply and the motherboard using the SATA cables (which mostly comes with the drive or motherboard).
Install the Operating System
You can install your operating system through a USB flash drive. Turn your PC on, after connecting your monitor, mouse, and keyboard. Check your ‘system set up or BIOS’. This would enable you to know whether your components have been successfully installed and recognized by your PC. Search for your systems ‘boot order’, to enable your flash and storage drives. Restart the PC and follow the instructions that would be displayed.