Build your own computer (howto)

Update 02/05/2007: I have put together a few systems see How I saved $1800 by building my own computer!

Having built over a dozen computers and servers, I have some experience with building computers. It has been a few years since I last built a custom PC. I plan to build one when Microsoft Vista (the new operating system from Microsoft) is released early next year. I will probably write a more detailed article about the process then. I have already decided it will be based on the "Core 2 Duo" processor from Intel and will simulate the purchase of it as an example. It's also important to date this article since prices are sure to change in the coming months. Today: 09/16/2006.

Here are the components that are required to build you computer (remember most online stores will answer your e-mail questions for free):

- Processor (i.e. CPU)
Lately Intel has the upper hand with their Core 2 Duo processor. Today, the "core 2 duo" processor from Intel is the fastest, most energy efficient and best priced processor. Usually the top 2 models are the most expensive. I would recommend the 3rd or 4th CPU for the best ratio price/performance.
Note: Usually OEM versions are a little less expensive but might not come with a cooling fan.
Example: Core 2 Duo E6400 2.13GHz (this processor will function with any LGA775 Socket compatible motherboard)
$249.99 at buy.com (Intel Core 2 Duo E6400)

- Motherboard
The motherboard will handle your CPU (processor) and memory. Some motherboards can come with built in sound, video and networking capabilities. Motherboards range from $25 (on sale) to $250 (top of the line with built in sound, video and networking). Select a motherboard that has the appropriate socket to handle the CPU you plan to purchase.
Example: Asus P5B (excellent motherboard with 8-channel HD audio and Gigabit LAN).
$154.99 at buy.com
 

- Computer Case or Chassis
The computer case will house the components of your PC. Some of the differentiating factors can be: Shape, Size, Color, Price, Sound-proofing.
Usually an average computer case will cost $50 and be in the range: $25 (on sale) to $200 (cool design, sound proof with a good power supply).
Example: Antec New Solution NSK6500 Chassis - Tower APFC Power Supply 430W
$99.57 at buy.com (Antec NSK6500 Chassis)
$89.99 at onsale.com

- Power Supply
The power supply provides power to your motherboards and peripherals (Hard-Disks, Floppy Drive, CD-ROM..etc..). Often the computer case will come with a power supply. The power supply should be powerful enough (in watts) for your system. You also have to make sure that the motherboard plug of your power supply is compatible with motherboard you plan on purchasing.

- Memory (RAM)
The memory you purchase should be compatible with the motherboard you plan to buy. You can find the memory your motherboard accepts by looking at its specifications. I would recommend 1GB to 2GB of RAM to run Microsoft Vista.
Example: 2GB of DDR2 PC2-5300 (or DDR2-667)
$210 at buy.com (1GB DDR2 667MHZ)

- Hard Drive:
This is the device that holds your data. I usually don't buy the retail versions since I do not need the accessories (Quick Install Guide, a CD with Data Lifeguard Tools, four mounting screws and a Serial ATA cable). Your motherboard might already come with a serial ATA cable or you can pick one up for a few dollars.
Example: WD Caviar SE16 320GB SATA/300 7200RPM 16MB Buffer Retail
$145 at buy.com (WD Caviar SE16 320GB Serial ATA/300 Retail)
$113 for the oem version at buy.com (WD Caviar SE16 320GB Serial ATA/300 OEM)
$110 at onsale.com

Additional Components:
- Video Card:
Some motherboards already have a video card built in.
Example: XFX GeForce 7900 GS 256MB EXTREME DDR3 450Mhz PCI Express x16 Video Card (Dual DVI)
$220 at buy.com (GeForce 7900 GS 256MB EXTREME)

- Sound Card:
Many motherboards already have a sound card built in.

- Network Card:
Many motherboards already have a network card built in.

- Floppy Drive or Smart Crd Reader

- CD-ROM or DVD-ROM ...etc...
Example: Sony CD/DVD burner (DWQ120A-B2)
$40 at buy.com

The total cost of the "example computer" would be around $1140 at buy.com (including shipping). You could probably save an additional $300 with a lower grade motherboard, computer case and video card. In other words, you could get one of the fastest computers for about $1000.

Some of the online stores I have already used in the past to purchase PC components:
Specialty	Name/Links	Notes
PC parts and more...	Amazon	Arguably the most trusted online store. Often free shipping when sold directly by Amazon.
PC parts and more...	Buy.com	Reputable online store. Often free shipping and the excellent prices.
Memory (storage, video)	Crucial	One of the best memory stores.  Free shipping over $40. Specials Not always the cheapest but if the prices are similar this is probably the better memory store.
PC Parts, Tools, Cables	Cyberguys	Offers a good selection of hard-to-find items.
PC Parts and more...	eCOST	Can sometimes offer the best price on certain parts. Watch for specials and sales.
PC Parts and more...	Newegg.com	One of the best computer store. Useful reviews and excellent prices.
Some PC Parts and more	Tech Depot	The technology store of Office Depot. Rarely has the best price but has the advantage of also being a brick and mortar shop.
PC Parts and more...	Overstock.com	Not always a huge selection or the latest products, but can have some of the best prices.
PC Parts and more...	TigerDirect	Good selection and sometimes the best prices online.

Other cool computer hardware stores:
Specialty	Name/Links	Notes
	X-treme Geek	Offers a good selection of hard to find and sometimes unique items.
All parts	Geeks.com
Memory (Storage)	EDGE Tech Corp	Free US ground shipping orders over $40.
	OnSale.com
	Wal-Mart - Computers	The largest retailer in the world...now online.

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