Build Or Buy

Building Your Own Computer - Part 1

Building Your Own Computer - Part 2

Building Your Own Computer - Part 3

Building Your Own Computer - Part 4

Building Your Own Computer - Part 5

Building Your Own Computer - Part 6

Building Your Own Computer - Part 7

CD DVD

CPU

Components

Computer Accessories Part 2

Hard Drives - Part 1

Hard Drives - Part 2

Memory

Motherboard - Part 1

Motherboard - Part 2

Sound Cards

Video Cards

Build Or Buy

Memory
Computer memory is a storage area for both program code and data which is currently in use. Computer programs can write and .....

Many people might be intimidated about what's inside a computer case. At first glance all those wires and components look confusing and incredibly high-tech. The thought of actually putting all the parts together may seem impossible.

Don't worry! Even though they are the product of advanced technology, the various components of PCs fit together with relative ease due to the simple connections. Putting together a PC is about as complicated as repairing an appliance. If you can use a screwdriver and follow simple instructions, there is no doubt that you can build your own PC.

Advantages of Building Your Own Computer

You are probably asking yourself why anyone would bother to build their own PC. After all, you can buy a cheap computer in almost any retail store. If cost is your only consideration, you are probably better off buying one of those machines off the shelf, but if you have special requirements for software or hardware, building your own PC gives you total control over the quality of these components.

You can also save money too. Although you probably can't match the price of the cheapest preassembled PCs, once you start asking for customized hardware installation, the cost of building your own computer becomes cheaper. And don't forget -- those super cheap PCs are bare-boned systems. Unless you only need a computer for basic word processing and e-mail, you will probably have to upgrade.

Building your own PC is also a great learning experience. You will gain a better understanding of how the various components work together, which is knowledge that can be useful when troubleshooting when using the computer. If your computer ever breaks down you may be able to pinpoint and fix the problem yourself, saving on those expensive service bills.

Building Your Own Computer - Part 7
You now have a working computer!! Before you can use it, though, you have to install an operating .....

Disadvantages of Building Your Own Computer

The major disadvantage in building your own PC is that you don't get a system wide warranty. For example, if a malfunctioning motherboard fries your memory chips, you may be unable to get compensated for the damaged memory. If something like this happens with a store-bought system you could more than likely get the computer repaired under the warranty.

However, if you buy all the components at the same time and from the same retailer, they may be more likely to compensate you if this type situation arises.

Getting the Best

You are pretty well guaranteed to get the best computer when you build your own system. Big retailers often use cheaper OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) components to cut down on costs, which is what allows them to have such low prices, but components like these can compromise the performance of a computer system. Though you can buy OEM components retail, the trade-off in reliability and stability is usually not worth it. Brand name components are usually just a bit more expensive and well worth the cost for the extra performance they offer.

Building Your Own Computer - Part 5
Before installing the hard drives and optical drives in the computer case, you must check that they are .....

The Bottom Line

Building your own PC has so many advantages. You'll be assured of getting the best components available which translates as the best and most reliable computer for the money. You will learn a lot about computer components and how to choose parts that offer the best performance. When it comes to servicing your computer you may be able to pinpoint the problem yourself and replace the problem parts.

Don't be worried about the task of connecting the computer components together. Many of the internal connections are molded in a manner that makes it impossible to fit them together the wrong way. If you have ever assembled a child's toy you are more than capable of assembling a computer!

Hard Drives - Part 2
How big should your hard drive be? As we saw in the previous article, the file system your computer uses can determine the .....

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