Building a computer

[peterm69]

I'm goning to have a go at building my first computer, has anyone got any tips or advice from personal experience?

[degsy]

Too many to mention

Always use static precautions and becareful when handling the hardware.

Startoff with a basic system and see if it works before adding extra cards & stuff.

[renegade600]

I'm goning to have a go at building my first computer, has anyone got any tips or advice from personal experience?

keep your fingers crossed :D You can find more info searching google using build computers as keywords. Finally, remember us if you have any problems or questions.

[Jim Smith]

I'm goning to have a go at building my first computer, has anyone got any tips or advice from personal experience?

www.pcguide.com has a step-by-step description of building a PC that at a minimum will reduce stress and increase confidance.

I don't want to overstate this, but, most components are fairly hardy, so don't be overly worried about a few bumps. I've dropped just about every component on to the motherboard or table, from short distances, and all worked fine.

It is advisable to wear an electro-static discharge wrist strap that is clipped to unpainted part of the chasis. Some use a ESD mat, also clipped to the chasis, to lay the components on. That said, I almost never use any ESD protection other than touching the chasis before touching any component. It is a foolish risk, but I am foolish.

One thing I sometimes forget is that recent PCs if plugged in will draw power as long as it is plugged in. I try to always remove the plug from the back of the PC before doing anything, it doesn't need to be grounded. For those who believe it should be grounded, turn off at the surge protector

Enjoy.

[twistedcranium]

There is a magazine called "Computer Shopper" that should be available at a local magazine shop/bookstore. I know that they are sold here in the states just about everywhere, and they do have a UK website, so they likely have a UK version of the mag.

http://www.computershopper.co.uk/

[dohray]

If you're swapping stuff from one 'puter to another, make sure you keep things seperate...ie Make sure that your RAM matches your Motherboard. :rolleyes:

I'll admit to seeing smoke coming from my DIMM's. :D

[jdunn]

Remember that the floppy plugs directly into the Mother board. USB wires maybe labeled oddly. For example on the case I bought the power line for the USB was labeled V (don't know why) Ask the tech from where you buy the parts. Also remember the CPU has an aligment mark on it for it's socket and use the silicone paste that comes with it.

Good luck

[peterm69]

Thanks for everyones advice I will letyou know how I get on!!!!!!!! :)