Save money by building your own computer.
Building your own computer allows for a noticeable cost savings. Components are often less expensive when purchased separately. Building a computer requires a familiarity with the basic components required and their compatibility. These components adhere to industry specifications that reduce the complexity of the project.
Storage Devices
The primary storage system for computers is an internal hard drive, which come in two classifications. Hard disk drives have been used in computers for many years and offer economically priced storage space with capacities ranging up to 3 terabytes, as of 2011. Also available are solid-state (SSD) hard drives, which use internal flash memory to store and retrieve data. SSD drives are more expensive but offer better data transfer and access times.
Motherboard
The computer motherboard is the backbone of a PC, providing low latency, high-bandwidth communications between hardware devices. Motherboards are commonly classified based on their features and, more importantly, the CPU (central processing unit) socket that they support. A motherboard that only supports slower, low-end processors restricts the ability to build a high-end computer.
RAM
RAM, or random access memory, acts as a volatile storage area where data for in-use programs and supporting files are held. RAM is fairly inexpensive, and a shortage of it can lead to severe system slowdowns. For a standard computer user, 4GB to 6GB of RAM is sufficient. If the computer is being built for video encoding or video games, and the processor and operating system support 64-bit computing, consider adding 6GB to 12GB of RAM.
CPU / Processor
The CPU is often the hardware device that receives the most consideration. Any processor made within the last 12 to 18 months is sufficient for most tasks. For example, the AMD six-core Phenom II X6 1090T Black Edition processor, released in 2010, is the current flagship CPU for the AMD Corp. and sells for just under $180 at the time of publication. This processor will perform virtually all computing tasks with relative ease and efficiency.
Computer Chassis
The computer chassis encloses the internal computing components. Often given little consideration, outside of aesthetics, the computer chassis provides mounting points for all internal cooling solutions such as fans or water cooling. Computers require adequate cooling to remain operational during high use periods. The computer chassis also provides mounting points for power supplies, motherboards and internal hard drives.
Computer Power Supplies
The computer power supply converts alternating current electricity to direct current. Computer power supplies are classified by two key features. The overall capacity of the power supply, rated in Watts, gives a general overview of the number of devices the power supply can support. Systems that require heavy electrical resources, such as multiple graphics card installations, have specific wattage requirements. A second key feature is the number and type of internal connectors, which is often a deciding factor in which power supply to purchase.
Graphics Card
The graphics card computes and renders all data that goes the computer monitor. High-end graphics cards, such as the NVIDIA 590, cost between $700 and $800. A typical computer user would do well with a mid-level graphics card that ranges up to $250, such as the NVIDIA 560 Ti. Keep in mind that it is only at higher resolutions that the need for a high-end graphics card becomes apparent.
Computer Monitor
Consumers face two primary concerns in the purchase of a monitor. The screen size, most commonly measured diagonally, is of great importance. For gaming computers, a larger screen size allows for a more immersive and detailed gaming experience. For productivity considerations, a large screen size allows multiple windows to be open simultaneously. A secondary concern is screen resolution. A monitor should support 1080p HD resolution.
Optical Drive, Networking, Sound and Cables
Optical drives allow for the use of CD and DVD media. These devices are relatively cheap. Virtually all motherboards come with on board high-definition sound and high-speed Ethernet ports. Connective cables such as SATA data cables, internal USB header cables and power connectors come with their respective devices.
Tags: power supply, graphics card, screen size, come with, computer chassis