Building your own desktop computer is a rewarding experience that allows you to tailor the system to your specific needs while saving money. Whether you’re a gamer, content creator, or just looking for a reliable workstation, assembling a desktop PC provides performance, upgradeability, and customisation unmatched by pre-built systems. Today we’ll share easy to understand comprehensive guide to assembling your own custom desktop PC.
Before Buying New Parts
First thing to do is check your current desktop computer components and ask ‘what can I keep from my current system that will still be useful?’.
For example: your current system’s FANS or Power Supply Unit (PSU) may be adequate to power up your new system. We recommend minimum 750W for standard systems and 1200W for high-end systems. Another example is that if your current Graphics Card does the job without lagging, you may install it in your new system.
Such considerations when made before building your new system can often save $100’s of dollars.
Electronic Fix Tip: the most important thing to remember when building or upgrading computers and laptops "Motherboard, CPU, RAM and SDD is the main drivers for peak performance". Furthermore: all these components should compliment each other, meaning, if CPU speeds are fast but SSD read/write speeds are slow, this will create a bottleneck for performance.
Components You Will Need
Before starting, ensure you have all the necessary components and tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Processor (CPU): The brain of the computer (consider future upgradability and be willing to pay bit more for CPU. Also consider buying a CPU that comes with its own original CPU FAN).
- Motherboard: Connects all components and ensures compatibility.
- Memory (RAM): Provides fast access for running applications (consider fast transfer speed with low-latency)
- Storage: Solid State Drive (SSD) or Hard Disk Drive (HDD) for storing data (once again if you already have fast enough SSD, you may consider keeping your old one).
- Power Supply Unit (PSU): Powers all components (as we’ve mentioned minimum 750W will power most systems).
- Graphics Card (Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)): Handles graphical processing (pro tip: if you’re not gamer, you need not purchase RTX cards with ray tracing capabilities which are often expensive).
- Case: Protects and houses the components (you may keep your current case).
- Cooling System: Fans or liquid cooling to maintain optimal temperatures. As you know, Queensland weather can get quite hot, this means, cooling is important for any type of computer systems.
- Operating System: Software to run the computer (e.g., Windows, Linux). For brand new systems wanting to install Microsoft Windows OS, create a bootable USB Drive.
Tools You Will Need
Make sure to have the following tools and materials before beginning:
- Philips-head screwdriver
- Anti-static wrist strap (to prevent damage from static electricity)
- Cable ties for organising wires
- Thermal paste (if not pre-applied to the CPU)
Step-by-Step Assembly
If you’ve never built or upgraded computer systems before, ensure that you thoroughly read through instructions that comes with new computer parts. Or at least visit the manufacturer website to learn how-to install each component before attempting to install it.
1. Prepare Your Workspace
Choose a clean, static-free surface with ample lighting. Lay out all your components and tools for easy access.
2. Install the CPU
Open the motherboard’s CPU socket by releasing the latch. Align the CPU’s gold triangle with the motherboard socket and gently place it in. Secure the latch by gentle pushing it down.
Apply thermal paste before attaching the CPU Fan cooler.
Attach the CPU FAN and CPU Fan cable to motherboard (you will see a label CPU Fan).
3. Insert RAM
Locate the RAM slots on the motherboard. Open the latches and align the RAM module with the notch in the slot. Press firmly until it clicks into place.
4. Mount the Motherboard
Install standoffs on to the case to prevent the motherboard from touching the case directly. Align the motherboard with the standoffs and secure it using screws.
5. Install the Power Supply
Place the PSU in its designated spot in the case (usually at the bottom). Secure it with screws and route the cables through the case for better cable management.
6. Add Storage
Install SSDs or m.2 SSD into their respective bays. Use screws or tool-free brackets to secure them. Connect the SATA power and data cables to the motherboard.
7. Install the Graphics Card
Locate the PCIe slot on the motherboard and remove the corresponding case bracket. Insert the GPU firmly into the slot and secure it with screws. Remember: all motherboards will have different speeds for PCIe connection (for example: 1 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slot) identify the highest speed capable socket to install your GPU)
8. Connect All Cables
Connect the power cables to the motherboard, GPU, and storage devices. Attach the front panel connectors (power button, USB ports, etc.) as per the instructions of motherboard manual.
9. Organise and Close the Case
Use cable ties to neatly organise wires to improve airflow. Once everything is secure, close the case panels.
10. Boot Up
Plug in the monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Turn on the PSU and press the power button. If everything is connected correctly, the system should boot. Install your operating system and necessary drivers.
Electronic Fix Tip: because brand new systems do not have an operating system installed, you will need to access the BIOS settings and change the boot sequence to boot from USB Drive.
Tips for a Successful Build
- Double-check compatibility between components before purchasing.
- Handle all parts carefully to avoid damage.
- Refer to the parts manual (especially the motherboard manual) for specific installation instructions.
- Optional: test the system outside the case to ensure components work before final assembly.
- Optional: test the correct air-flow direction by placing incense smoke outside of the case’s FANS
Is It Worth Building Your Own Computer System?
Building a desktop computer may seem daunting at first, but with the right components, tools, and patience, it becomes an enjoyable and fulfilling project. You’ll gain valuable knowledge about computer hardware and create a system perfectly suited to your needs.
Can I Build My Own Laptop System?
NO. Although possible, you should not attempt to build your own laptop system. You can however upgrade your laptop computer following the insights above. The only main difference between desktop vs laptop components are their size. For example: laptop CPU is a smaller version of a desktop CPU, laptop RAM is a smaller version of a desktop RAM.
Want Us to Custom Build Your New Computer in Brisbane?
Don’t have the time or confidence to build your own PC? We can help. With years of experience in assembling custom systems, we’ll create a computer tailored to your specific needs and budget, whether it’s for gaming, professional work, or everyday use. Contact Electronic Fix in Brisbane today to get started on your dream build. Email: info@electronicfix.com.au or call (07) 3613 0029 to discuss your requirements and get a free quote.
