It may be hard to believe, but when you purchase a brand-name computer, you're probably paying almost double what you should.
Did you know that half of the components inside a computer have lifetime warranties? And did you know that the rest usually come with a 3 year warranty or longer? So why is it that when you purchase your Dell, HP or Gateway, they want $250 extra for the 3 year warranty?
This is just one of many examples of the hidden costs associated with buying a computer from a large computer company. These hidden costs appear in millions of consumer products of course; how else would corporations make profits? Do you really think it costs Apple $400 to make an iPod?
But the difference between an iPod and a computer is; it's easy to build a computer. These days there is so much information available on the internet to guide you through the entire computer-building process. Here is a brief outline of the assembly process:
1. Before you Build (shopping and learning)
In this first step you would learn about the different parts inside a computer: what they look like and what functions they perform. You would also find out where you can buy these components and how much they cost. It is also important that you understand any associate d risks and heed appropriate warnings before beginning.
2. Setting up the Computer Case
In the second step you would prepare yourself and the case for installation. You would make sure that you are electrically grounded, that your working area is clean and organized, and that you have all the necessary components before proceeding. At this time you would do small preparatory tasks, such as punching out the I/O Shield, screwing in motherboard separators, and making room for a disc drive.
3. Installing a Power Supply
This is usually a very simple step. All you need to do is slide the power supply into the case and secure it with screws. Later on you will connect the power plugs to your components inside.
4. Installing the Processor (also known as a CPU)
This is by far the most difficult step, and thankfully it comes early on. There are two parts to this step. First you have to place the CPU into the motherboard socket (the easy part). Second you will have to install the CPU heatsink. The reason this is difficult is because it often takes tremendous force to get pushpins through those little holes. If you are using screws, it can also be difficult because you will have to push downwards while turning, and you don't want to break the board!
5. Installing the Motherboard
All you need to do here is lower the motherboard into the case and then use screws to secure it to the case. You should probably also connect the power supply to the appropriate spots on the board.
6. Inserting the Memory (also known as RAM)
Another very easy step. All you need to do is insert the sticks of memory into the obvious location on the motherboard. If you have multiple sticks and the slots are color-coded, use the same color for a pair of sticks.
7. Installing a Hard Drive
To install a hard drive just slide it into the appropriate holding rack inside the case. Then connect the power and data cables and you're done!
8. Installing a Graphics Card
You will insert the graphics card into the appropriate slot on the motherboard, then support it with whatever power cables are required. All graphics cards are different so check the instruction manual.
9. Installing a CD or DVD Drive
This step will be almost the exact same as the hard drive. There will be an obvious location to slide the drive into place, then secure it with screws. You will connect it with cables very similar to a hard drive.
10. Last But Not Least
The computer is assembled but there are a few final tasks to complete. First you should turn it on and make sure everything works properly. Make sure all power cables are connected and that the case buttons (the power button for example) are connected to the motherboard. You will then need to configure the BIOS settings and install an operating system.
Seems like a lot? Trust me, at a relaxed beginner's pace, it can be accomplished in just a couple of hours. Not only that, it is fun and when finished you will have a great sense of accomplishment. If you plan on buying a computer - whether it costs $800, $1000, $1500 or more - don't do it! Instead, spend that same amount of money building a computer yourself and get twice the power and performance. Or alternatively, spend half and get the same computer you would otherwise pay double for!
Now that you have an overview of the computer building process, check out a full guide with high resolution pictures, important tips and step-by-step instructions. Learn How to Build Your Own Computer!
Good luck with your new computer!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Geoff_Russel
