Building a laptop is an enjoyable project that has many benefits. As is the case with desktops, if you build your own laptop you get a great deal more performance for less money. You can also build it to the exact specifications you need rather buying a pre-manufactured laptop and upgrading certain parts. Another advantage, aside from the sheer pleasure of building the laptop, is that you can ensure every detail is attended to so as to avoid future hardware failures due to oversights.
The Shell
The first component you need to build your laptop is what's known as a bare-bones laptop. A bare-bones laptop is manufactured with only the absolutely essential components. These components include the LCD screen and case, the motherboard, chassis, speakers, touch-pad, connectivity ports and, in most cases, a graphics processing unit (GPU). If you are building your laptop for graphics intensive use and want a custom GPU, it is possible to get bare-bones models that do not include one so that you can install one separately. However, these can be difficult to find.
The Components
When selecting your other components, keep in mind you need to shop according to the specifications of your bare-bones shell. This means the components need to be compatible with the motherboard and fit in the case. Do not purchase more parts than you have space for. This may sound like a no-brainer, but you should carefully consider what parts you will want to install and how many USB and firewire ports you will need in your laptop before purchasing the bare-bones shell. When purchasing your processor, be sure you buy one your motherboard supports. When it comes down to cooling, since you are already saving money, it is advisable to go top of the line with heat-sinks, fans and cooling gel. A good cooling system will drastically prolong the life of your hardware. You also need to ensure you purchase RAM compatible with your motherboard. Because there is generally little room for expansion in a laptop, it is best to get the largest DIMs possible when buying RAM so that you can use the available slots efficiently. Choosing your wireless card should be fairly simple since there are not many available. Look for the fastest and most updated card available.
Assembly
Once you have obtained all of your parts, the assembly of your laptop is straightforward. The most difficult part will be installing the CPU. Follow the instructions that came with your shell and never force a piece into place. If you are having trouble inserting a piece, be sure it is turned the right direction, that the pins match the holes and that it is a compatible component. Once the CPU is installed, the rest is basically plug and play. Use the directions that came with your shell and insert all of the components. Reassemble the case and you are ready to install the drivers, operating system and start using your new laptop.
Tags: your laptop, with your, bare-bones laptop, bare-bones shell, build your