Gaming machines provide hours of fun and relaxation.
Building a gaming machine will enable you to play your favorite PC games without spending a lot of cash at a PC shop or big box retailer. It's also rewarding to build a computer piece by piece and see it as a final product. Gaming machines require complex and sometimes pricey components, such as graphics cards and higher-level CPUs. Building a gaming machine allows choices in component brands, speeds and prices. This enables you to make a custom machine capable of running your gaming software.
Instructions
Assembling the Components
1. Dismantle the computer case by removing the side covers. Install the power supply (typically installed at the top back section of the case) with four screws. Run the power cables for easy access to help plug in the other components. Keep them neat and grouped together for adequate airflow.
2. Install the CPU and memory onto the motherboard. The motherboard should be laid on a non-conductive surface to avoid static shock. Install the CPU in the designated slot and place the fan on top of the CPU as instructed. The memory sticks click in a designated slot, and are designed to be placed in one direction. Do not use excessive force when installing the CPU and memory units.
3. Install the motherboard into the gaming machine case. The case will have pre-drilled screw marks that will align with the motherboard to allow you to secure it in the case. The necessary hardware is always included in the motherboard box.
4. Place the CD/DVD drive into the front of the case, replacing a door cover. This allows the CD/DVD to sit flush in the case. The hard drive can be installed in cages inside the computer case in the bottom front. Place four screws in each component to ensure a secure fit.
5. Place the graphics card in its designated slot by gently sliding the card into the correct position and applying light force until the card is completely inserted in the slot. The ports of the card face the back of the computer, and one or two screws are needed to secure the card to the computer casing.
6. Make the power connections by ensuring all components have a direct connection to the power supply. The motherboard and graphics card have a dedicated power connection. The hard drive and optical drive use a standard molex connector.
7. Remove any wire clutter or non-essential materials such as unused metal trays found in certain computer cases. This will ensure proper airflow for the gaming machine.
Installing Software and Running Games
8. Make all connections for the mouse, keyboard, monitor and speakers. Hook in the power cord for the gaming machine.
9. Install the operating system by placing the CD into the optical drive and follow the on-screen instructions.
10. Update the computer's software and install any necessary drivers and patches. This is generally done automatically by the operating system, but it's necessary to do before attempting to run any gaming software. Search the manufacturer's website for the graphics card driver. These are constantly updated and the newest drivers will ensure the best performance. Avoid using the packaged CD drivers. They are typically out of date.
11. Install games by placing the game's CD or DVD into the optical drive. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the game. Gaming machines are more elaborate than typical computer builds, so observe the system when running games for the first few hours. Check for such things as proper airflow out of the back of the case, as well as stability while running the game.
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