Saturday, 13 August 2011

Building a Computer - The Basics of Choosing & Installing a Motherboard


Building a computer is something any computing enthusiast can try. It's much easier than it looks and the advantages include being able to choose the components you need and want instead of buying an off the shelf PC with things you don't need, and you can save some money as well. The processor is the brains of any computer, but the first component you should select is the motherboard as it will affect every other decision you make when building your machine.

The motherboard has slots for the processor, RAM, expansion cards, and more. Depending on which motherboard you choose, many devices may be included right on the board as integrated chips including the sound card, video card, and wireless networking capabilities!

You should buy a motherboard depending on your needs. Consider if you want a computer for basic office productivity, or if you want a gaming and multimedia powerhouse. These considerations can make a great difference in which motherboard you should select.

If you just need a basic office machine, a low end board that can accept most modern processors is fine. Check for on board sound and video, and that should be more than enough. Gamers might want to look for more capabilities such as the choice to run two video cards in tandem (like Nvidia's SLI), Wireless internet, infrared remote control, and the speed of RAM that can be used.

Once you've got your board, you need to mount your chosen processor to it. Follow the instructions that came with your processor to do this, and always remember you should be wearing an anti-static wristband when doing any internal computer work. Installing the CPU before you put it in the case can make your job a lot easier.

Next you should have small riser screws to place in the case that your motherboard will mount to. If you mount directly to the bottom of the case, you risk shorting out the board, plus the case slots on the back won't match up. Screw in these risers at the screw points on your case. Then mount the motherboard screwing into these risers. Remember, use a screwdriver without a magnetic tip.

Now your motherboard has been mounted, you can plug in the case power supplies to the designated spots, and you're ready to install the rest of your parts. The hardest part is over and you're now on your way to enjoying your own custom built PC.




This story was written by Ross D Taylor, an expert author with more than 10 years experience in internet copywriting. Bret has a wide range of interests varying from internet marketing to very specific niches like how to find a Disc Jockey Service and budgeting for a Disc Jockey Service.





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