How to Build a Computer from Scratch?

If you have been using a computer for so long, and now it can not keep up with the rigorous daily duties you have to perform. Maybe its components are worn, degraded over time, or just lost performance. In any circumstance, you have to either plan a new computer or replace some of its parts that have lost functionality over time. But the pre-built computers you purchase from the market can not go along with the replacements or upgrades. Manufacturers, while developing these machines, fix and adjust components in a compact place, with no room left for anything additional.

But there is no need to panic. You can spare some time and bucks to build your PC. This suggestion may seem quite perplexing for many users as they think sorting a computer while starting from zero is complicated, and only experts can do so. But this guide can help you understand how to build a computer from scratch. You select, purchase tools and components, put them together, arrange the cables and connect to the power source. Which case to use and how much space should be left for future upgrades is all you can decide to make your machine long-lasting and performing well. 

The process is easy and gives you satisfaction and a sense of creativeness. You feel fulfilled when you look at the computer that consists of your desired components and helps achieve a performance level that is not the feature of standard computers. Remember, while working with tools and equipment, things may get messy, or some components may demand more time if you are a newbie, but in the end, all the hard work you put into the stuff is worth doing. Grab the necessary tools like Phillips screwdriver, computer components, clean and large surface area, cable ties, screws, and scissors. 

You can pick all the components with useful features to build a personal computer. But if you want a gaming computer, keep your graphics card high-end, as this is the unit that can thrill your nerves by boosting the games. Make sure you purchase the components from a trustworthy seller; for that, you can visit the website or store of a reputable seller and make a purchase. It ensures you are not buying from third-party vendors and the prices are not too high. Note down the required tools and elements you want to build a computer and pick them individually.

Building a PC step by step

You will set up different elements in a shell to get a working computer. So there are must-have prerequisites; no component will run and perform if you do not consider them. The most crucial element is compatibility; all the details should have one or two elements that help them connect and establish a network among all the PC parts. Without this network, no information will flow to access the internally stored information and deem it to fulfill the institutions. The next element is space, whether all the elements can be caged inside the case you have purchased or not. 

For this, you must be very critical and well aware of the case form factors and their goals for various setups. The most suitable form factor is the full-sized ATX motherboard, which can beautifully accommodate all your elements. Here we have enlisted the components you will deal with in the next few hours. Do not ignore the specifications and budget limit while picking up any unit; the sole purpose of compiling a computer from individual units is to have a machine that thrills your mind and work. If you are not cautious enough while looking for a single item, it can impact your final output.

Computer components:

• PC case

• Motherboard

• Central processing unit

• Graphics processing unit

• Power supplying unit

• RAM

• Storage devices

• Operating system

• Cooling system

• Mouse

• Keyboard

Safety when building a Computer from scratch

You are working with the PC parts; therefore, to test different components at different times, you have to plug in power supplying unit and plug it out after a while. Users are barely aware of this invisible risk posed by the static current. What happens is static electricity is reserved in some PC elements just after switching them off. You do not get any indication in the form of a beep or light, which shows the left in current. That is why sellers deliver many components in anti-static bags, and you can leave them packaged until you need to put them in the system. So while building up your machine, you may face this static current, but with the built computer, this risk is minimal. 

But how can this risk be prevented from occurring? Let us tell you some precautionary steps which help avoid this problem and keep you safe if it accidentally happens. First, you must know some surfaces and stuff that pick up a lot of static currents and can transfer them to you. A carpeted surface, socks, and woolen stuff can be significant static receivers. So before starting your work, choose a static-free site like a bare floor, and wear rubber shoes. You can also wear an anti-static wrist band which keeps you grounded and safe from the static wave. Using these tips, you can eliminate the chances of a static shock.

Opening the case

This is the preparatory step where you must get the case out of its packaging and open it. No technical things; just remove anything present inside the case and store them in a safe place. It could be the panel, dandling elements, or wires. Removing the panel gives you vent to the case’s interior, and getting the cables and other details out creates free room for easy and intelligent installation of components. If you have any doubts or confusion regarding the layout of the particular case you bought, you can refer to its instruction guide. 

This guide will help you understand the procedure of carefully removing case elements and installing necessary parts. Throughout your working journey, try to keep things sorted on the table. While dealing with one component and its tiny details, ensure the working area is not crowded with other stuff. Keep the parts removed in a small bowl, or you can even use the case box because you will need them later once you have packed all the components inside the case. Using a magnetic tray is the best way to prevent spreading the pins and holding them in place. 

How to install the power supply

Our case is empty now and ready to receive PC components. The first unit to be installed is the power supply. Though we can opt to start with another element as well, setting the power supply in the beginning is advantageous, as it helps you test the component’s proper functionality whenever required. The power supply is commonly attached to the case’s lower back area, but if you are new to this component, you can check the case manual to locate the port.

Steps:

You just need to follow some steps to install the power supply properly.

• Step 1: Grab the unit and locate it at the mounting site. A power supplying unit is equipped with a fan, and directing this fan to the external environment is a real struggle. You might get confused about how to place the unit for better ventilation. So check out the user manual, and find out which direction is most suitable.

• Step 2: After directing correctly, fix the unit inside the case. For that purpose, use a Phillips screwdriver to tighten the screws.

• Step 3: Now plug the power cables in their slots. This step can be performed later whenever you feel it is needed. However, this step might not be required if lines are pre-provided in the PSU.

How to install the processor

Installing a processor before or after setting the motherboard is a personal choice. Go for the option you find that can deliver easy access. Here we are installing the processor and attaching it to the power circuit. The subtle differences in CPU sizes and structure like that observed in AMD and Intel CPUs do not affect the installation process to a greater extent. To overcome any issues, a user guide can be more than enough to instruct. Last but not least, a CPU must be handled in a neat and grease-free place. So make sure your working area is tied up and not messy with liquid stuff.

Steps:

The processor is one of the sensitive parts of a computer, so it must be installed with a lot of care. Here are some steps that will surely help you install the processor.

• Step 1: Open the CPU bag and get the processor out. Place the CPU and its associated peripheries on an anti-static surface. Some preferable options are a wooden desk or a complex, nonmetal surface. Metallic and carpeted surfaces are not suitable for handling these components.

• Step 2:  Now follow our instructions to open the load plate by adjusting the lever. The load plate is a square-shaped metallic bracket responsible for setting up the CPU in its assigned place. First, push down the lever and get it out of the side hook. Then turn the lever upward as far as it goes. This movement opens the plate, which can be brought out from the bracket and sheds the plastic. After the CPU gets in place, press the load lever down, and it will tuck its head under the same hook keeping the element secured at that position.

• Step 3: Correct orientation is also an essential aspect of CPU installation. Pick up your unit and properly align it with the CPU socket. You can use any tool for help and then press it inside. Your CPU is all set in the socket. Here make sure that the processor is seated appropriately in the slot; if you feel it is not, remove it and insert it again. Here we must mention that the suitable alignment is enjoyable only in advanced processors. Most Intel CPUs do not allow orientation of your choice. There are given some notches on one side, and the processor can be aligned only in that direction. At the same time, Intel has brought out advanced units where these notches are in a triangle structure so that you can align them in any reasonable order.

• Step 4: After setting the CPU in the bracket, gently press down the lever gently and tuck it, so the CPU is safely locked inside. If the processor were seated correctly, you would not need to apply much force, but if it is hard to press the arm down, check out the CPU placement and try again. 

How to install RAM

Installing the computer’s short-term memory chip is no big deal. Just locate the appropriate slot, bring the chip close to it, find the proper alignment, and slip it inside the slot. However, some concerning points are always around the table when we wonder; how to build a computer from scratch. In the case of RAM, these deciding factors are the module’s slot, alignment, and compatibility. The memory chip needs to be a compatible partner with your motherboard. The contact points residing on the chip must line up with the motherboard slots. 

However, deciding the proper slot for your memory stick might be confusing; to ease it out, read the manual to spot the best configuration if you have more than one memory device. On the other hand, knowing the exact alignment is very easy, owing to the notch at its bottom lining. This bottom side is the contact point between the RAM and the motherboard. So to pair them, place the memory chip above the slot, and both the contact areas will align. But if they do not align, turn the chip the other side down and match their lining.

Steps:

When installing RAM, it is necessary to plug it carefully by following these two simple steps.

• Step 1: To install the RAM in the motherboard, first make sure that the board is firmly on the surface and has some support in the back, as you might need to apply pressure. Get the memory stick out of the pack, and open the slot by pressing its clamps down and then pushing outside. Insert the stick inside and push firmly, so it clicks appropriately in place. Now let the clamps click back in their position to secure the bar.

• Step 2: If you have more than one stick, install them by following the method mentioned above. 

How to install the motherboard

Grabbing the best motherboard is not tricky as this component comes in unique flavors and sizes that can soothe almost all users' choices. However, some PC parts are scarce, and getting an item with compatible features and prices is quite challenging. Installing a motherboard inside the case is the highway for connecting other computer components. This unit forms the foundation, where different parts find their place to communicate and perform. If this board is aptly locked in the PC case, other members might not face much resistance to setting up cable connections or screwing up the holes. Let us see how one can install a motherboard inside a PC case.

Steps:

The motherboard is the PC’s central hub, so they should be dealt with great care, but you can install them properly by following all these simple instructions.

• Step 1: Open the motherboard package and get the rear I/O shield out. This shield comprises a metallic panel with proper places or cutouts reserved for motherboard ports. It finds its position in the back of the case. Before mounting it, place it close to the backspace and find out which direction it gets seated. Moreover, its slots must align with the motherboard ports. Once the panel is aligned, push it in and install it.

• Step 2: Here comes the question of how to safely lock the board in its place. For that, many PC cases do not let you get in headache, as they feature pre-installed standoffs. These are oddly appearing screws with black and golden color. They are different because, unlike standard screws with a notch at the top surface to allow screwdrivers to get in and fix them, these standoffs have another hole that appears like the screw itself. So in some PC cases, you might need to install these standoffs, which is not tricky. Just pick up the manual and look for the places and layout to be followed for engraving these screws.

• Step 3: When the I/O panel is locked in the case, and the standoffs are ready, the only remaining thing is to grab the motherboard and fix it in the panel. Surely we can fix it using screws. So make sure the screw holes on the motherboard are adequately aligned with those in the panel and that the board ports have also found their respective slots on the panel. If everything seems adjusted, put the screws in holes and rotate them. Tightening them too hard can be harmful, be gentle while turning them and stop once you feel the board has locked comfortably.

• Step 4: In the last, you have to ensure the power supply to the board. Not just the power supply, some internally developed connections that run in the form of bundles of cables must be made right with this step. A motherboard must have linkages with the plugs, buttons, and all necessary inputs of the PC case. All these connections allow a motherboard to control the power button, USB slots, and other ports and LED light blinks to indicate different activities. The CPU and the motherboard share the power supply connection, which powers up both devices once switched on. However, some processors have their supplying connectors plugged directly into the CPU. 

How to install the CPU cooler

Finding the best cooler for your computer and then set it in the case might take a lot of your time. Each cooler suggests its instructions and requires different tools to handle them. Therefore, in this guide, helping users how to build a computer from scratch, we are referring to general instructions for installing the CPU coolers. However, for straightforward directions, the user manual is the best guide to follow. This is because these coolers come with subtle differences and do not follow the same procedure to be a part of the PC case. Some want a backplate, and some work with the thermal paste.

Steps:

CPU Cooler is another necessary part of the PC, and it has to be fitted accurately to work well.

• Step 1: The first step deals with applying or reapplying the thermal paste. A silver-colored paste is layered on the cooler if it does not come in an already used form. Do not think of excelling; just get a reasonably good thermal paste and stick it on the surface. While opening and squeezing, make sure the paste does not spill on the PC parts. Sometimes, the paste is already present, and you may want to change it. In that case, the simple and best way is to use a cloth dipped in isopropyl alcohol and clean the paste. You would not have to be rough and tough; it gets off the surface quickly. Once properly cleaned, get a modest drop on the center of the chip and spread it uniformly over the surface.

• Step 2: Based on your cooler’s setting arrangement, you may need to replace the case panel with a custom backplate.

• Step 3: Place the cooler on the CPU and align its bolts and mounting holes with the motherboard. Now gently press it to fix the bolts and insert the screws. While tightening the screws, do not be too lenient or harsh. If you insert too much pressure, screws might get deshaped, and if you give them a few turns and leave, the cooler may be loose and keeps moving.

• Step 4: If you want to add a fan, you can mount it right now on the cooler. This fan has a connector that one can plug into the respective port on the motherboard. 

How to install the graphics card

Some processors have an integrated graphics card, and you do not have to install a discrete GPU. These pre-installed graphics units are not average in functionality. Instead, they can manage most of the games, day-to-day tasks, and some professional programs. However, if you plan to have an outstanding machine, or a PC able to fulfill professional duties, you must buy a beastly graphics card and install it on the computer. Graphics cards are pretty larger, and you have to mount them wisely. For that, you might need to remove some metal brackets on the back of the motherboard or might concern the user manual to find the most suitable slot with sufficient room.

Steps:

Here are some helpful instructions to install your graphics card in the desired way.

• Step 1: The first step in installing a modern GPU is to locate the PCI Express slot on the motherboard. This new connector type does not support old graphics cards. You can spot this thin and elongated slot on the back side of the motherboard. When selecting one place for the graphics card, you must start with the one near the processor. Leave this slot and find two more PCI slots next to this one. Use any of these places to seat your graphics card. But to do so, you must remove one or two backplates from the rear side of the case. These plates are locked in the brackets with the help of screws. Get the screw out with the screwdriver and store them in a separate bowl. Once unscrewed, the plate will slip out on its own.

• Step 2: Pick up the graphics card and bring it close to the mounting space on the back of the motherboard. The units' ports and mounting holes must be aligned, and the PCI connector should be directed down. Click the card into the slot, and here is your GPU installed. Your motherboard might have a securing lever that locks the card in place. If you have a tough time mounting the graphics card into its space, ensure the back ports and PCI slots are directed well, and the locking lever is put aside.

• Step 3: Then grab the screws you kept aside in the box and slot in their holes to secure the GPU.

• Step 4: One side or top surface of the graphics cards is sometimes provided with two PCI power connectors. We have already mounted the card in the PCI Express slot; what is the purpose of these additional connectors comprising 6, 8, or 12 pins? Some graphics cards are so powerful that they can not just rely on the power supplied by a single PCU connector. So the manufacturers- have featured two more connectors that can deliver more power to the card. These connectors have a specific structure to help you avoid resistance while installing a unit. 

How to install expansion cards

To install expansion cards, you must go through the user guide with every motherboard because you might get confused finding the compatible slot for these cards. Expansion cards use the same type of slot and installation procedure as a graphics card, but some differences are always around the corner. Like an expansion card uses PCI Express x4 slot instead of 16 owing to the smaller mounting connector on the chip. Let us discuss how you can mount an expansion card in a smaller PCIe 4 slot.

Steps:

Expansion cards are considered the fragile components of a PC, so you should handle them with great care. Let’s follow these steps to install these cards like a professional builder.

• Step 1: Locate the PCIe x4 slot on the rear side of the board, and remove the screws of the metal brackets present nearby the corresponding space. Get the brackets away and keep the screws sorted in a safe place because you will need them in the end.

• Step 2: Grab the expansion card, place it near the slot and bring its contact points in line with the space. When both are aligned, push the expansion card to seat it securely.

• Step 3: You can plug the cable directly into the card if you pair any additional power supply that some cards may require.

• Step 4: Now secure the expansion card using the screw pins you safely placed aside. Fix the screws in place, and do not overdo things. The purpose is just to lock the unit and prevent it from wiggling.

How to install hard drives and SSDs

Let us enable our computer to store some stuff permanently. For that, solid state drives, the 2.5 inches modules, and hard drives, 3.5 inches modules, are installed in the PC case. Every storage type has different nature, which means they differ in size and, therefore, have additional requirements during installation. Though during our journey of how to build a computer from scratch, we have dealt with unbound variations in components and the way of seating a case. The same can be seen in settling storage drives. 

Locking 3.5 inches long drive and a tiny M.2 PCI Express drive in a PC case can be amazingly different. Let us see how we can tackle these differences while seating a storage drive in a computer case. Whichever storage drive size you have on your desk, check out its exact size and find its mounting slot on the motherboard. If you fail to understand the spot, get help from the user manual guide.

Steps:

We help you install these parts like a pro PC builder. Just follow these steps.

• Step 1: For installing a 3.5 inches hard drive, your motherboard offers either a single mounting space or there may be several. Select a single area, get your drive inside, and fix it using screws and pins. When you have secured it well, set up the things to power up the drive. Power connectors attach a SATA cable with the drive and the motherboard.

• Step 2: For installing a 2.5 inches SSD chip, you just need to change the slot. This time slip the chip in a 2.5 inches slot. The remaining steps are similar to that of a hard drive. Repeat them, and your SSD will be installed and attached to the data and power connectors.

• Step 3: To install the minor form factor M.2 SSD in your system, finding the corresponding slot is difficult for everyone, as it is tiny in size. So better read out the user manual and find the exact location. Repeat the remaining steps as performed for other storage types. Ensure you install the drive at a 45 angle and then secure it with screws.

• Step 4: There is another storage type that uses PCI Express x16 slot. To install this PCI SSD chip, pick your user manual to know which place offers the perfect bandwidth.

Double-check everything 

Finally, you have put together all the worthy units a computer is generally composed of. It is when we may jump up to plug in the power supply and start enjoying our self-made machine. But having a double-check of all the assembled components can save us from many troubles. Have a little patience, sit on your chair, and glance at your computer to check whether the things are accurately paired. You can assess all the PC units one by one, and after ensuring optimal connections, you can turn on your machine.

Steps:

Let us help you analyze the components and wire connections that are of high significance.

• Step 1: Start with the motherboard, and check whether it moves when you slightly push it or is accurately secured in the given space. This check is crucial for your newly built set up to prevent any component from separating when you pick up the case or move it from one place to another. Moreover, figure out if the electric supply is plugged in the connectors appropriately.

• Step 2: Touch the CPU cooler and gently shake it to find out if it is wiggling or locked securely. Then look at the power connection, for which its connector is supposed to be plugged into the relevant port in the motherboard.

• Step 3: The graphics card must be connected to the power supply using suitable cables to enable your graphics processing unit to generate video output or enhance gaming performance. Generally, these cards require different power cables, so check the corresponding wires and ensure they are correctly attached.

• Step 4: Expansion cards also need the power to work on, so assure proper supply after mounting them aptly.

• Step 5: Check out the slots where you inserted storage drives. Look how securely these devices are put in their places; if they are loose, remove them and reinstall them. Moreover, a hard drive or an SSD drive has data and power connections established using cables. Figure out whether these cable connections are correct and strongly built.

• Step 6: Connect the necessary peripheral elements like the mouse and keyboard, which have mounting slots on the motherboard. Spot the relevant slot on the board, and plug in the units. Lastly, finish your setup by attaching a monitor.

When you are sure everything in the system is sound and there are no flaws, you can proceed to the next step. But it is good to arrange the scattered cables using pins and clamps to have a precise and compact setup. 

Turn the PC on

Now comes the exciting part, for which you have been thinking while setting up the entire system. Power up your computer built from scratch and try it out. Figure out what you have achieved by spending money and effort; undoubtedly, you will be mesmerized by its build and performance. You can use a USB drive to store the windows and other professional drivers to install the operating system. When the system is switched on for the first time, the USB drive delivers the necessary commands to reboot your system. You can make further settings by exploring the BIOS interface; as this varies in every design, we can not tell you to explore which direction exactly.

Steps:

Now just check whether it is working as expected or you made a mistake.

• Step 1: Plug in your computer power cable in the circuit and turn it on. Press the power button on the desktop, and the screen will light up. Here your system may restart a few times or might show you the log-in interface on the first go. But things might go another way, like if any wired connection is not made correctly or is loose, you may not switch on the computer. In this case, you must recheck connections in case of any misunderstanding concerning the user manual. It might be the main power plug you have not put appropriately in place, so unplug the machine and plug it in again.

• Step 2: After one or more trials, install your favorite windows when the system starts working. You can select a window based on your system and job requirements. Modern windows are preferred because they feature advanced tools and drivers, which ease many tasks we perform daily. Choose one window, and then install its drivers. Some windows automatically initiate this installation, and you do not have to command it.

• Step 3: Go to system settings, and enable the security and update controls. It will allow your system to install updates when available and keep it secure automatically.

• Step 4: When the system becomes fully operational, keep a record of its performance and temperature. Tracking performance helps you know the efficiency of your CPU, GPU, and storage drives to access and deliver data in time. At the same time, the system temperature tells how your CPU cooler is performing. If proper ventilation is allowed, your system will stay cool and calm. But if you notice raised temperatures and unnecessary noise, there might be trouble with the cooling mechanism.