PC Build Guide
This page will expalin the basic steps of putting together your first PC. Wow thats exiting, lets get started!
Step 1: Prepare your workspace
Start by choosing a clean, well-lit area with enough room to lay out all of your parts. You will need a screwdriver, and your motherboard manual. Before touching any of the components, make sure you ground yourself with a anti-static wrist strap as to not damage any parts with static electricity.
Step 2: Install CPU, RAM, and M.2 SSD
Take the motherboard and open the CPU socket, line up the CPU correctly using the small triangle in the corner, and gently place it into the socket before securing it. Next install the RAM by lining up the notch and firmly pressing down until it clicks into place. If you are using a M.2 SSD, insert it into the M.2 slot, press it down and secure with the tiny screw. Refer to the motherboard manual to locate the appropriate slots for each part.
Step 3: Install CPU cooler
You will want to apply a small dab of thermal paste in the center of the CPU. Then you will place the cooler over the CPU and secure it according to the instructions for the specific cooler you have. Once it is secured you can plug the cooler directly into the motherboard. Refer to the motherboard manual for the correct slot.
Step 4: Install the motherboard
Open the panels on your case and lay it flat, you want to make sure the standoffs are in the correct spot for your motherboard. Then carfully lower your motherboard into the case, line it up with the standoffs and screw it into place without overtightening.
Step 5: Install PSU and storage drives
Place the power supply into the bottom part of the case and secure it with screws. If you are using SSD or HDD, mount them in the proper bay or bracket. Then connect the storage drives to the power supply using the SATA power cables.
Step 6: Install the graphics card
Find the top PCIe slot on the motherboard and open the lock, then line up the graphics card in the slot and firmly press down until it clicks into place, then secure it with screws to the case. Connect the PCIe power cables to the power supply.
Step 7: Connect all power cables and case cables
Plug in the 24-pin motherboard power cable and the 8-pin CPU power cable into the motherboard. Then connect all front panel cables to the motherboard coming from the case. Double check that you dont have any loose cables that do not plug in. Everything should be plugged in somewhere.
Step 8: Check everything!
We are almost there! Before turning the computer on double check you have removed all tools and loose hardware from the case. You should also double check to make sure everything is fully connected and seated properly. Once you have double checked everything turn the computer on and go to the BIOS screen. Here you can make sure the computer recognizes all the parts you installed.
Step 9: Install the operating system and drivers
Use a USB flash drive to install Windows or another operating system. After that, install the motherboard drivers, graphics drivers, and any system updates. Once everything is finished, the PC should be ready to use.
Final Tip
Take your time. Building a PC can seem difficult at first but if you go step by step and double check your work, it becomes much easier. You can never do too much research, so check out the Linus Tech Tips building guide video for any additional help.
If everything went right, you should hear something like this. Have fun!