How to Assemble a Basic Desktop PC<br />This set of instructions will help you assemble a basic computer capable of running most modern software packages encountered by a casual user. Modern computers become more affordable when users supplement their monetary investment with a few hours of effort. This computer build will be very basic and will be the minimum hardware necessary to have a functional system. After you have all of the parts and materials needed, <br />Step 1: Procuring Parts <br />Procuring Parts<br />First you will need to buy the parts necessary to build the computer. The parts we will use in this project are labeled in figure 1:<br />1. Processor (CPU)<br />2. Computer Case<br />3. Optical Drive (DVD RW and SATA capable)<br />4. Memory (RAM)<br />5. Power Supply<br />6. SATA Cables<br />7. Motherboard (SATA Capable)<br />8. Processor Fan<br />9. Case Fan<br />10. Hard Drive (SATA Capable)<br />11. Assortment of case and drive screws (Not Pictured)<br />12. Flowers (necessary if you are invading the space of your significant other)<br />Caution: Double check the manufacturer's specifications on all items before you purchase them. <br />Step 2: Gather Tools and Supplies<br />Gather Tools and Supplies<br />Gather the tools you will need for the project:<br />Screwdriver (for slotted and Phillips head screws)<br />Wire cutters and strippers<br />Needle-nosed pliers<br />Utility knife<br />Small flashlight<br />Adjustable wrench<br />Small container to hold screws<br />Heat sink compound<br />Grounding strap<br />You may not use every single one of these tools in every installation, but it is best to have all of them on hand in case you have a use for them.<br />Warning: Using incorrect tools for a task (such as turning a screw with a knife blade) can cause equipment damage and bodily injury.<br />Step 3: Open the Case<br />Open the case<br />Open the computer case by removing the side panels. Find the screws that hold the side panels in place and remove them<br />Warning: Case may have sharp edges. Handle with care to avoid injury.<br />Step 4: Prepare the Case for Assembly<br />Prepare the Case for Assembly<br />Ground yourself<br />Put the grounding strap on your wrist (Figure 10) and connect the other end to the computer case. If your strap is not equipped with a clip to hook to the case, find a place to wedge against the metal as shown in figure <br />Caution: Static electricity can ruin computer components. Always wear a grounding strap when handling any internal components.<br />Step 6: Install Motherboard<br />Install Motherboard<br />To install the motherboard we need parts that should have been included with your purchased components:<br />I / O Bezel is a trim panel installed in the back of the case that surround<br />Step 7: Install Hard Drive<br />Install Hard Drive<br />The hard drive is the device that stores all of your data. It is 3.5 "wide and needs to be mounted so that you can gain access to the cable connections on the back (figure 16).<br />Step 8: Install Optical Drive<br />Install Optical Drive<br />The optical drive is 5.25 "wide and is installed in the drive bay that we removed the cover from in a previous step. Cable access considerations apply to this
