by William Moore

Created on: May 25, 2007   Last Updated: July 07, 2010

If you want to build your own computer system, begin by asking people and searching the Internet about the different types of computers there are. That way you can get an idea about where to start. There are many choices but you want at least a 2.4ghz board/cpu.

I will put this as simply as possible so you don't get to confused.We will start with the basics.

parts list:
atx computer case $40.00-$200.00
motherboard $50.00-$200.00
cpu $50.00-$500.00
memory $50.00 - $$200.00
power supply $30.00 - $200.00
operating system $100-$200.00
CD burner-rw and or dvd burner-rw $20.00-$100.00
3 1/2 floppy drive $10.00

If you want a basic low cost system, I suggest getting a barebone computer, 
it is the pc case, power supply, motherboard/CPU combo, this costs around $100.00-$200.00 for a computer running at 1.8 ghz - 2.8ghz,  then add the extra above mentioned parts.

I built a AMD 1.3ghz motherboard/CPU combo about 5 years ago. Here's the cost.
motherboard/cpu $120.00
two 512 memory sticks $100.00
dvd burner $50.00
xp home operating system CD $100.00
Computer case $40.00
CD burner $25.00
500 watt power supply $50.00
128 memory video card $50.00
fans/lights $25.00

I built this system piece by piece so as you see it cost a few bucks but I got what I wanted.

I just build a new computer, it is a AMD 64 Athlon X2 Dual core 3800+
the motherboard/CPU cost $75.00 for the board and $140.00 for the CPU
the memory was $50.00 for 512 MB.

I took out the old board AMD 1.3 from the case and installed the new board, thus saving a lot of cash in replacing the extra stuff I already had installed.

The computer boards sold today usually have video and sound outputs already built into them so I wont go into details of how to install these parts; by the time you are done with building your computer you will have enough knowledge to install these parts yourself

Now that you are a little more at ease about computer parts/building , lets get started.

You will need a Phillips screwdriver, an anti static wrist band if you're really scared about electrical shock ( you can just touch the case and it will eliminate the electrical charge that might be there).

There will be install instructions with your parts you buy, but I will try and explain it also.

1.Open your case,usually the panel on the left side of the case will slide off after unscrewing the 2 screws.
2.Install the power supply, there are 4 screws.
3.Lift the lever on the motherboard marked CPU socket all the way up and place the CPU into the socket.

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>