How to Build a Computer

[-0MEGA-] · 12-04-2007, 03:54 AM

How to Build a Computer: (Currently Editing)

First a little background here, The case that is used in this build is the Antec Nine Hundred. The other components that I used was the Asus P5K Deluxe (based off the P35 chipset), Intel Core 2 Duo E6400, 2GB of Corsair XMS2, Silverstone 750W power supply, 4x Seagate 320GB SATAII hard drives, ATI 2900XT video card, X-Fi Fatal1ty FPS sound card, and a Cooler Master UFO CPU cooler.

Before we get started, what you need to know is that installations will differ to some degree based on what case you choose, what platform your building off of, as well as the types of accessories you install. This guide is intended to help you if you get stuck somewhere and/or are interested in building your own and want to read up on how one would build a PC.

Getting Started:
Before we begin, it's a good idea to get all of your components out of their packaging and lay them down where you will be working. This way you know exactly what you have, what you need to install, and what you have left after you've started. As you can see in the picture below, I have my case that I will be using during this build.

__________________________________________________ _____________________________

After you have all your parts laid out at your workspace, lets remove the case from the packaging and get ready for installing all the components. Note however that if you are working on a place such as a bed, carpet, or other fabric, you should wear an anti-static wrist strap or be touching the case with your hands while handling any electronic device to prevent a static charge from ruining your equipment.

__________________________________________________ _____________________________

Preparing the Case:
One of the important steps that many new builders forget are the gold extender feet that go between your motherboard and case chassis. These prevent your motherboard from shorting out, and allows air to pass underneath. The ones in the following photos are based off of the ATX design, note that each form factor has their own layout, so be careful to only install them where they will be screwed down. The photo below is a closeup.

__________________________________________________ _____________________________

As stated above, only install the extender feet where the motherboard will be screwed down, to prevent the possibility of a short. You will notice that there are many empty holes in the case, which would be used if I was using a motherboard with a different form factor.

__________________________________________________ _____________________________

The next step is to remove the rear I/O panel that comes with the case, with the panel designed for your motherboard. To do so simply push outward on the panel from inside the case, and it should pop out towards you.

__________________________________________________ _____________________________

The next step is to install the new rear I/O panel. If you purchased an open box / OEM motherboard, chances are you never received a rear I/O panel. If thats the case I would attempt to use the panel that comes with the case, however most likely it will not work, if that happens then you would need to run it without the rear panel or try to find one online.

__________________________________________________ _____________________________

Installing the Motherboard:
Now that we have the case ready for the components, it's time to install the motherboard. This may seem like the most complicated step when it comes to actually building the computer, however it is actually easier then it looks. First make sure the motherboard is lined up properly so the rear I/O panel is in the correct spot, and that the expansion card slots are also lined up with the back of the case. When you are lining it up with the gold extenders, be very careful not to scratch the bottom of the motherboard on the case, as it may cut through the PCB and into the imprinted circuit board.

__________________________________________________ _____________________________

In the photo below you can see that the holes in the motherboard line up exactly with the gold feet we had secured to the case. If there are holes that do not line up with any feet, then remove the motherboard and either relocate them to the proper holes in the case, or add additional ones.

__________________________________________________ _____________________________

The photo below should help you locate the correct screws to use if you are unsure about what kind to use. These are usually the same screws that are used to secure the expansion cards down as well.

__________________________________________________ _____________________________

The screws should screw in fairly easily and do not require much force. If you notice that you need a lot of force or that it's not properly screwing in, then remove it and try another one, as it's very important to have the motherboard securely screwed down to the case. Make sure that you did not forget any, as it can be easy to overlook.

__________________________________________________ _____________________________

Installing the Processor:
Now that you have the motherboard securely connected to the case, it's time to install the processor (CPU). This part does vary slightly with the different sockets that are available, although the same general rules apply. To install the processor, first open up the holder as shown by pulling the lever outwards, then lifting it up. Once it is lifted you can pull back on the holder, now it should look like the photo below.

__________________________________________________ _____________________________

Now comes the actual installation of the processor. All current processors can only be installed in one direction. If you attempt to power on the computer with the processor installed incorrectly, it very well may damage/destroy the processor and/or motherboard. Note that on the CPU itself there is a marking, usually an arrow, which indicates the direction in relation to the motherboard marking. It's hard to see the marking on the motherboard in the photo below, however you need to verify that that the arrow on the CPU lines up with the marking on the motherboard to ensure correct operation. You can also judge by looking at the bottom of the processor and making note of irregular pin configurations, as thats usually another way to ensure the CPU only goes in one way.

__________________________________________________ _____________________________

Now the processor should be in the socket. It shouldn't require much if any force to drop into place, if you feel that you need to applya strong amount of force, it's most likely installed incorrectly.

__________________________________________________ _____________________________

Now that the processor is in place, it's time to secure it to the motherboard by closing the CPU holder and pushing the lever down and under the latch. It should look the same as what is shown in the picture below.

__________________________________________________ _____________________________

Now it's time to apply the thermal paste. Please note that usually the heatsink comes pre-applied with a thermal compound, so this step may not be necessary. However if yours didn't include any thermal compound on the heatsink, or you wish to use a higher quality thermal paste, then follow these directions. You only need a small amount of thermal paste for proper conductivity, too much or too little will cause an increase in temperatures and may even cause shorting if too much thermal paste is applied and it falls down onto the motherboard. As shown in the picture below, you only need a small amount in the center of the CPU. I usually apply a small dot between the size of a grain of rice and a small pea, then I gently spread it around for a more even distribution.

[-0MEGA-] · 12-04-2007, 03:55 AM

The next step is to install and connect the heatsink and fan for the processor. With the LGA775 heatsink you need to snap each corner into place, push down, and then turn the knob on the top of each corner of the heatsink. Once that is done connect the fan to the motherboard:

Now comes the memory. Before you attempt to install the memory (RAM), make sure you are using the correct type, such as DDR, DDR2, DDR3, etc, and that it is aligned to the notch properly. Make sure that each DIMM is secured in the slot by the tabs on the left and right:

The next step doesn't need to be performed right after the above step, however I prefer to do this next before the wiring gets too complicated. It's pretty self explanatory, some cases have openings for the power supply on the top, and/or on the bottom. It is secured to the backside of the case via screws:

In order for the case's power and reset buttons, as well as lights for the HDD, Power, etc to work, you need to connect them to the motherboard headers. Each motherboard varies so you will need to refer to your manual to determine the correct order for each header. This also applies to the USB and/or FireWire headers:

The next step is to remove the front panel covers to allow for installation of optical drives, floppy drives, controller cards, etc. To do so you need to remove screws from BOTH sides of the case, such as shown here:

Now this step varies based on case, for the Antec Nince Hundred as well as several others, there are removable hard drive carriages. You would remove them the same way you do the front panel covers, by unscrewing them from the case chassis and sliding/pulling it out. The next step is to secure it to the carriages by using the included screws.

The optical drives will now be installed in the drive bays where we removed the covers. Each drive can be slid into the case from the front or rear, and then secured using screws (which are usually included in the case):

Now for the wiring. This can go in any particular order, however I prefer to start off with the main power 20/24-Pin power connector, followed by the 4/6/8-Pin power connector. After that you connect all the drives, fans, accessories, video cards, etc.:

[-0MEGA-] · 12-04-2007, 03:55 AM

Before we get any further, I would recommend connecting all the data cables to the hard drives and optical drives:

Now for the optional accessories. I'm sure pretty much everyone on this forum uses a dedicated video card, so not many of us think of this as optional. Before trying to install the card, make sure you have the correct video card for your interface (PCI, AGP, PCI-E). Then line it up with the slot and secure it to the PCI expansion slots on the case using screws. After that, connect the PCI-E power connectors (if applicable):

Now for the sound card. This is how to setup a sound card with an external I/O panel, however most sound cards do not include this. The first step is to install the sound card itself into the expansion slot using the same method listed above. To install the I/O panel, I would make sure any power/data cables are connected to the panel prior to installing it in the case, as it's much easier then trying to connect it afterwards. The install process is nearly identical to that of installing an optical drive:

Now I'm sure you're case looks pretty similar to mine, with wires everywhere and no real organization. I highly recommend doing some wire management to improve airflow and make the inside of the case look better overall. The first picture is before, and the second picture is after using some zip-ties:

Now the last step is to connect everything to the back of the computer:

Here are some pictures of my setup after everything is complete (excuse the dirty desk ):

brian · 12-04-2007, 04:02 AM

OMG! took like 5 min to load

jk jk

WOW GREAT!!!!!!!!! enough hard drives

if you dont mind me asking, how much did all that cost you

also if you want to keep this "clean" just say, i will delete this post if you want

[-0MEGA-] · 12-04-2007, 04:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by brianmay27

OMG! took like 5 min to load

jk jk

WOW GREAT!!!!!!!!! enough hard drives

if you dont mind me asking, how much did all that cost you

also if you want to keep this "clean" just say, i will delete this post if you want

hehe, I like lots of data storage

Well the case itself was $120 with free shipping, and a $50 mail-in rebate. The parts themselves were about $1800 back in June (minus the monitor).

And feel free to post, I want to see what people think of it.

MatrixEVO · 12-04-2007, 04:11 AM

Nice job Geoff. I told you it was a great case, and I guess you listened. This "how-to" should help beginners that already know some basics, but still need help to put it all together without questions.

oregon · 12-04-2007, 04:13 AM

Wow, very nice. I wish I would have had access to that before hand. Great pictures.

Motoxrdude · 12-04-2007, 04:14 AM

Hhaha, i didnt read the text but the pictures where awesome.
Hella nice computer omega! Gotta know the specs!

EDIT: hahha, in your sig; ik that

[-0MEGA-] · 12-04-2007, 04:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Motoxrdude

Hhaha, i didnt read the text but the pictures where awesome.
Hella nice computer omega! Gotta know the specs!

EDIT: hahha, in your sig; ik that

Thanks everyone!

This computer did cost alot, but it does perform great

theresthatguy · 12-04-2007, 04:30 AM

I thought/hope I read through all the correctly. I think you should make mention of the power connector by the cpu fan that many people forget about or about ensuring that all power connectors in general. Good work!

12-04-2007, 03:54 AM	#1 (permalink)
[-0MEGA-] Diamond Member Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Concord, NH Age: 19 Posts: 25,267	How to Build a Computer - Step by Step (With Photos) How to Build a Computer: (Currently Editing) First a little background here, The case that is used in this build is the Antec Nine Hundred. The other components that I used was the Asus P5K Deluxe (based off the P35 chipset), Intel Core 2 Duo E6400, 2GB of Corsair XMS2, Silverstone 750W power supply, 4x Seagate 320GB SATAII hard drives, ATI 2900XT video card, X-Fi Fatal1ty FPS sound card, and a Cooler Master UFO CPU cooler. Before we get started, what you need to know is that installations will differ to some degree based on what case you choose, what platform your building off of, as well as the types of accessories you install. This guide is intended to help you if you get stuck somewhere and/or are interested in building your own and want to read up on how one would build a PC. Getting Started: Before we begin, it's a good idea to get all of your components out of their packaging and lay them down where you will be working. This way you know exactly what you have, what you need to install, and what you have left after you've started. As you can see in the picture below, I have my case that I will be using during this build. __________________________________________________ _____________________________ After you have all your parts laid out at your workspace, lets remove the case from the packaging and get ready for installing all the components. Note however that if you are working on a place such as a bed, carpet, or other fabric, you should wear an anti-static wrist strap or be touching the case with your hands while handling any electronic device to prevent a static charge from ruining your equipment. __________________________________________________ _____________________________ Preparing the Case: One of the important steps that many new builders forget are the gold extender feet that go between your motherboard and case chassis. These prevent your motherboard from shorting out, and allows air to pass underneath. The ones in the following photos are based off of the ATX design, note that each form factor has their own layout, so be careful to only install them where they will be screwed down. The photo below is a closeup. __________________________________________________ _____________________________ As stated above, only install the extender feet where the motherboard will be screwed down, to prevent the possibility of a short. You will notice that there are many empty holes in the case, which would be used if I was using a motherboard with a different form factor. __________________________________________________ _____________________________ The next step is to remove the rear I/O panel that comes with the case, with the panel designed for your motherboard. To do so simply push outward on the panel from inside the case, and it should pop out towards you. __________________________________________________ _____________________________ The next step is to install the new rear I/O panel. If you purchased an open box / OEM motherboard, chances are you never received a rear I/O panel. If thats the case I would attempt to use the panel that comes with the case, however most likely it will not work, if that happens then you would need to run it without the rear panel or try to find one online. __________________________________________________ _____________________________ Installing the Motherboard: Now that we have the case ready for the components, it's time to install the motherboard. This may seem like the most complicated step when it comes to actually building the computer, however it is actually easier then it looks. First make sure the motherboard is lined up properly so the rear I/O panel is in the correct spot, and that the expansion card slots are also lined up with the back of the case. When you are lining it up with the gold extenders, be very careful not to scratch the bottom of the motherboard on the case, as it may cut through the PCB and into the imprinted circuit board. __________________________________________________ _____________________________ In the photo below you can see that the holes in the motherboard line up exactly with the gold feet we had secured to the case. If there are holes that do not line up with any feet, then remove the motherboard and either relocate them to the proper holes in the case, or add additional ones. __________________________________________________ _____________________________ The photo below should help you locate the correct screws to use if you are unsure about what kind to use. These are usually the same screws that are used to secure the expansion cards down as well. __________________________________________________ _____________________________ The screws should screw in fairly easily and do not require much force. If you notice that you need a lot of force or that it's not properly screwing in, then remove it and try another one, as it's very important to have the motherboard securely screwed down to the case. Make sure that you did not forget any, as it can be easy to overlook. __________________________________________________ _____________________________ Installing the Processor: Now that you have the motherboard securely connected to the case, it's time to install the processor (CPU). This part does vary slightly with the different sockets that are available, although the same general rules apply. To install the processor, first open up the holder as shown by pulling the lever outwards, then lifting it up. Once it is lifted you can pull back on the holder, now it should look like the photo below. __________________________________________________ _____________________________ Now comes the actual installation of the processor. All current processors can only be installed in one direction. If you attempt to power on the computer with the processor installed incorrectly, it very well may damage/destroy the processor and/or motherboard. Note that on the CPU itself there is a marking, usually an arrow, which indicates the direction in relation to the motherboard marking. It's hard to see the marking on the motherboard in the photo below, however you need to verify that that the arrow on the CPU lines up with the marking on the motherboard to ensure correct operation. You can also judge by looking at the bottom of the processor and making note of irregular pin configurations, as thats usually another way to ensure the CPU only goes in one way. __________________________________________________ _____________________________ Now the processor should be in the socket. It shouldn't require much if any force to drop into place, if you feel that you need to applya strong amount of force, it's most likely installed incorrectly. __________________________________________________ _____________________________ Now that the processor is in place, it's time to secure it to the motherboard by closing the CPU holder and pushing the lever down and under the latch. It should look the same as what is shown in the picture below. __________________________________________________ _____________________________ Now it's time to apply the thermal paste. Please note that usually the heatsink comes pre-applied with a thermal compound, so this step may not be necessary. However if yours didn't include any thermal compound on the heatsink, or you wish to use a higher quality thermal paste, then follow these directions. You only need a small amount of thermal paste for proper conductivity, too much or too little will cause an increase in temperatures and may even cause shorting if too much thermal paste is applied and it falls down onto the motherboard. As shown in the picture below, you only need a small amount in the center of the CPU. I usually apply a small dot between the size of a grain of rice and a small pea, then I gently spread it around for a more even distribution. __________________ Pentium Dual-Core E2200 @ 3.3GHz Gigabyte P35-DS3L ATI HD 3870 GDDR4 @ (875/2272) 4GB (2x 2GB) DDR2-1000 500GB SATAII HD w/16MB SilverStone 750W +12V@60A 3DMark06: 11515 Last edited by [-0MEGA-]; 12-08-2007 at 05:28 PM.

12-04-2007, 03:55 AM	#2 (permalink)
[-0MEGA-] Diamond Member Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Concord, NH Age: 19 Posts: 25,267	The next step is to install and connect the heatsink and fan for the processor. With the LGA775 heatsink you need to snap each corner into place, push down, and then turn the knob on the top of each corner of the heatsink. Once that is done connect the fan to the motherboard: Now comes the memory. Before you attempt to install the memory (RAM), make sure you are using the correct type, such as DDR, DDR2, DDR3, etc, and that it is aligned to the notch properly. Make sure that each DIMM is secured in the slot by the tabs on the left and right: The next step doesn't need to be performed right after the above step, however I prefer to do this next before the wiring gets too complicated. It's pretty self explanatory, some cases have openings for the power supply on the top, and/or on the bottom. It is secured to the backside of the case via screws: In order for the case's power and reset buttons, as well as lights for the HDD, Power, etc to work, you need to connect them to the motherboard headers. Each motherboard varies so you will need to refer to your manual to determine the correct order for each header. This also applies to the USB and/or FireWire headers: The next step is to remove the front panel covers to allow for installation of optical drives, floppy drives, controller cards, etc. To do so you need to remove screws from BOTH sides of the case, such as shown here: Now this step varies based on case, for the Antec Nince Hundred as well as several others, there are removable hard drive carriages. You would remove them the same way you do the front panel covers, by unscrewing them from the case chassis and sliding/pulling it out. The next step is to secure it to the carriages by using the included screws. The optical drives will now be installed in the drive bays where we removed the covers. Each drive can be slid into the case from the front or rear, and then secured using screws (which are usually included in the case): Now for the wiring. This can go in any particular order, however I prefer to start off with the main power 20/24-Pin power connector, followed by the 4/6/8-Pin power connector. After that you connect all the drives, fans, accessories, video cards, etc.: __________________ Pentium Dual-Core E2200 @ 3.3GHz Gigabyte P35-DS3L ATI HD 3870 GDDR4 @ (875/2272) 4GB (2x 2GB) DDR2-1000 500GB SATAII HD w/16MB SilverStone 750W +12V@60A 3DMark06: 11515 Last edited by [-0MEGA-]; 12-04-2007 at 04:01 AM.

12-04-2007, 03:55 AM	#3 (permalink)
[-0MEGA-] Diamond Member Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Concord, NH Age: 19 Posts: 25,267	Before we get any further, I would recommend connecting all the data cables to the hard drives and optical drives: Now for the optional accessories. I'm sure pretty much everyone on this forum uses a dedicated video card, so not many of us think of this as optional. Before trying to install the card, make sure you have the correct video card for your interface (PCI, AGP, PCI-E). Then line it up with the slot and secure it to the PCI expansion slots on the case using screws. After that, connect the PCI-E power connectors (if applicable): Now for the sound card. This is how to setup a sound card with an external I/O panel, however most sound cards do not include this. The first step is to install the sound card itself into the expansion slot using the same method listed above. To install the I/O panel, I would make sure any power/data cables are connected to the panel prior to installing it in the case, as it's much easier then trying to connect it afterwards. The install process is nearly identical to that of installing an optical drive: Now I'm sure you're case looks pretty similar to mine, with wires everywhere and no real organization. I highly recommend doing some wire management to improve airflow and make the inside of the case look better overall. The first picture is before, and the second picture is after using some zip-ties: Now the last step is to connect everything to the back of the computer: Here are some pictures of my setup after everything is complete (excuse the dirty desk ): __________________ Pentium Dual-Core E2200 @ 3.3GHz Gigabyte P35-DS3L ATI HD 3870 GDDR4 @ (875/2272) 4GB (2x 2GB) DDR2-1000 500GB SATAII HD w/16MB SilverStone 750W +12V@60A 3DMark06: 11515 Last edited by [-0MEGA-]; 12-04-2007 at 04:10 AM.

12-04-2007, 04:02 AM	#4 (permalink)
brian Diamond Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Well, i can see the sun if that helps Age: 16 Posts: 3,200	OMG! took like 5 min to load jk jk WOW GREAT!!!!!!!!! enough hard drives if you dont mind me asking, how much did all that cost you also if you want to keep this "clean" just say, i will delete this post if you want __________________ formerly brianmay27 Main laptop: hp dv9005us \| turion 64 X2 1.6 ghz \| 3 GB ram \| Vista home premium \| 240 GB HD First build: pentium e2160 3.2 GHz \| gigabyte GA-P35-DS3L \| 2.5 GB ram \| 160GB HD Wikipedia was made in the same time it takes 100,000 people to watch the super bowl. if this means something to you, put this in your profile If you can see this, you have WAY TOO much time on your hand. Or you're a mod going through my sig. But if you do, copy and past this in your sig.

12-04-2007, 04:11 AM	#6 (permalink)
MatrixEVO Diamond Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Phoenix, AZ Age: 20 Posts: 1,353	Nice job Geoff. I told you it was a great case, and I guess you listened. This "how-to" should help beginners that already know some basics, but still need help to put it all together without questions. __________________ I don't own a computer! It's great! I don't waste lots of time anymore!

12-04-2007, 04:13 AM	#7 (permalink)
oregon Platinum Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: west linn, oregon Posts: 686	Wow, very nice. I wish I would have had access to that before hand. Great pictures. __________________ MB: Gigabyte P35-DS3L CPU: Core 2 Duo E6550 @3.5hz GPU: PNY GeForce 8800 GT 512 RAM: 4GBs DDR2-800 (Ballistix and OCZ SLI) CL4 PSU: Antec NeoPower 650W Case: Antec 900 HDD: Seagate SATA 250GB. 7200RPM. 16MB cache

12-04-2007, 04:14 AM	#8 (permalink)
Motoxrdude Diamond Member Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Nor Cal Age: 17 Posts: 5,653	Hhaha, i didnt read the text but the pictures where awesome. Hella nice computer omega! Gotta know the specs! EDIT: hahha, in your sig; ik that __________________ RIP Mom 9/17/55-02/22/08.

12-04-2007, 04:30 AM	#10 (permalink)
theresthatguy Diamond Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: KC, MO Posts: 2,395	I thought/hope I read through all the correctly. I think you should make mention of the power connector by the cpu fan that many people forget about or about ensuring that all power connectors in general. Good work! __________________ CPU: Intel Core 2 Extreme X6800 HSF: TK IFX-14 with 120 mm @ 114 CFM GPU: XFX 7950 GX2 RAM: 2GB Corsair XMS2 Pro DDR2 800 MOBO: Intel D975XBX HDD:80GB/750GB Seagates CASE: P180b

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