Question about building a computer.

N3rd · 05-17-2008, 07:36 PM

Should I install the cpu, cpu cooler, and ram BEFORE I put the motherboard into my case?

voyagerfan99 · 05-17-2008, 08:50 PM

It gives you much more room to work in if you install them before, so I'd say yes. But it's personal preference really.

ScOuT · 05-17-2008, 09:23 PM

I had a friend who mounted his motherboard first, then found out he had to mount the CPU cooler with his motherboard out....don't do that. Just make sure you check first.

cohen · 05-18-2008, 08:10 AM

depends on the type of CPU cooler - i have the stock one and i put the Motherboard in then, Ram, then CPU + cooler.

Quick69GTO · 05-18-2008, 04:24 PM

I have been doing the following for the last ten years when building PCs.
1: If you are using the stock heatsink fan, skip to step 2.
2: Lay a half folded bath towel on a sturdy table.
3: Lay the motherboards anti-static bag on the towel.
4:If you are using an aftermarket heatsink/fan that requires removing the stock retention bracket, remove it now.
5: Lay the motherboard on the anti-static bag (be sure to install the aftermarket heatsink back plate before laying it down), install the CPU, then apply the thermal paste.
6: Install heatsink/fan.
7: Install the RAM.
8: Install the motherboards I/O shield (plate) into the case.
9: Install the proper amount/height of motherboard stand-offs into the case.
10: Install motherboard into case using supplied screws and tighten firmly.

I use the table method because the back of the motherboard is completely supported by the table instead of only being supported by the stand-offs inside the case.
It especially helps with installing the RAM.

Good luck!

cohen · 05-18-2008, 10:03 PM

Follow this thread - How to Build a Computer - Step by Step (With Photos)

05-17-2008, 07:36 PM	#1 (permalink)
N3rd Bronze Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Posts: 75	Question about building a computer. Should I install the cpu, cpu cooler, and ram BEFORE I put the motherboard into my case?

05-17-2008, 08:50 PM	#2 (permalink)
voyagerfan99 Diamond Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Connecticut Posts: 1,953	It gives you much more room to work in if you install them before, so I'd say yes. But it's personal preference really. __________________ Drum Major - Windham High School Marching Band Mach Speed MSNV-939 nForce Socket 939 AMD Athlon 64 X2 3800+ (OC'd to 2.20 Ghz) Power Up Black ATX Mid-T Case w/450w & Clear Side 3 GB DDR RAM 450 GB Storage (80-ATA, 120-ATA, 250-SATA) Visiontek Radeon x1650 Pro 512MB 22" Viewsonic LCD w/ iPod Dock + 17" Dell CRT Logitech G15 Gaming Keyboard Computer Pics

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
My noob 3rd attempt at building a computer!	kassokiller	Desktop Computers	15	03-16-2008 01:48 PM
Looking for a bit of advice-- Building my first computer.	bryan47	Desktop Computers	4	02-26-2008 11:49 AM
First time building computer	lucky_charms	Computer Memory and Hard Drives	3	05-02-2006 11:40 AM
Im new in computer building... I have some cpu installation question	silicon-thumb	CPUs and Overclocking	3	01-24-2005 12:53 AM
Building Computer	CypriotPryde	Desktop Computers	29	07-11-2004 10:18 PM

05-17-2008, 09:23 PM	#3 (permalink)
ScOuT Bronze Member Join Date: May 2008 Location: Germany Posts: 96	I had a friend who mounted his motherboard first, then found out he had to mount the CPU cooler with his motherboard out....don't do that. Just make sure you check first.

05-18-2008, 04:24 PM	#5 (permalink)
Quick69GTO Silver Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Posts: 204	I have been doing the following for the last ten years when building PCs. 1: If you are using the stock heatsink fan, skip to step 2. 2: Lay a half folded bath towel on a sturdy table. 3: Lay the motherboards anti-static bag on the towel. 4:If you are using an aftermarket heatsink/fan that requires removing the stock retention bracket, remove it now. 5: Lay the motherboard on the anti-static bag (be sure to install the aftermarket heatsink back plate before laying it down), install the CPU, then apply the thermal paste. 6: Install heatsink/fan. 7: Install the RAM. 8: Install the motherboards I/O shield (plate) into the case. 9: Install the proper amount/height of motherboard stand-offs into the case. 10: Install motherboard into case using supplied screws and tighten firmly. I use the table method because the back of the motherboard is completely supported by the table instead of only being supported by the stand-offs inside the case. It especially helps with installing the RAM. Good luck!