Introduction
This paper will provide a systematic procedure of how to build a computer. The main purpose of building a computer is cost reduction considering that it is cheaper to build one than to buy. When assembling the computer, use a flat and dry table with access to a power source. In addition, follow the instructions carefully as they will help you in assembling the computer. The task may take approximately one and a half hours to complete.
Requirements
For one to be able to build a computer, one must be have access vital parts, which include a CPU casing that has already been attached with its power supply. A key reason for finding a casing already attached with its power supply is that, it might be a little bit difficult to connect the power supply to its original casing. The next requirement is a motherboard, considered the main part of a computer. In this case, the motherboard to be used must be in working order, must have the relevant manual, and must not be broken since this may have an effect on its working capacity.
The next requirement is a hard drive preferably a minimum of 80GB for enough data storage space. The other essential requirement is the RAM used to store the memory of the computer. It is necessary to have a bigger RAM as this will increase the efficiency of the computer. Normal range of RAM of a properly functional computer is between 1GB and 4 GB. In addition, one must obtain IDE cables used in connecting the hard drives, DVD, and CD ROMs to the motherboard. One can also have a DVD or a CD ROM and/or a floppy drive useful in the installation of the operating system. Lastly, it is necessary to have a set of tools useful for assembling parts, such as a set of screwdrivers, pliers, masking tapes and many more.
Procedure
1. The first step is detaching the side panels of the casing while making sure that the power supply unit if firmly attached to the casing.
1.1 Using a screwdriver open the screws that attach the front and back panels to the CPU casing.
1.2 Slide the panels back, without using excessive force, one by one to detach them from the CPU casing.
1.3 Make sure that the power supply unit is firmly attached to the CPU casing.
1.4 Using a screwdriver, tighten the screws that attach the power supply unit to the CPU casing.
The CPU casing will now be open and free to allow the insertion of the motherboard.
Figure 1: Detaching the Panels from the CPU Casing
2. The second step is mounting the motherboard on to the CPU casing.
2.1 Insert the motherboard in a downward angle until it lies down against the standoffs.
2.2 Check to confirm that the screw holes are aligned with both the motherboard and the CPU casing.
2.3 Insert all the mounting screws one-by-one, and do not tighten until all screws are mounted.
2.4 Tighten the screws, with extreme caution, to attach the motherboard firmly to the casing.
The motherboard will now be firmly attached to the CPU casing.
Figure 2: Mounting the Motherboard
3. The third step is mounting the DVD or CD ROM and the Floppy Drive onto the CPU casing.
3.1 Check the front of the CPU casing for an opening that is 5 ¼’.
3.2 Align the DVD or CD ROM flush with the opening.
3.3 Slowly push the ROM slowly into the opening until fully inside.
3.4 Check the casing sides to confirm that, the mounting screws are directly aligned.
3.5 Using a screwdriver drive the screws into the screw holes to attach the ROM to the casing.
3.6 Check for another opening on the front of the casing that is 3 ½’ and repeat the same procedure for the Floppy Drive.
The DVD or CD ROM and the Floppy Drive will now be firmly attached to the CPU casing.
Figure 3: Mounting the DVD or CD ROM and the Floppy Drive
4. The fourth step is mounting the hard drive onto the CPU casing.
4.1 Inside the CPU casing, find a bay that is 3 ½’.
4.2 Slide the hard drive into the bay carefully to avoid any damages.
4.3 Check to confirm that all the screw holes are aligned with both the hard drive and the CPU casing.
4.4 Using a screwdriver drive the screws into the screw holes and tighten to attach the hard drive firmly to the casing.
The hard drive will now be firmly attached to the CPU casing.
Figure 4: Mounting the Hard Drive
5. The fifth step is mounting the RAM onto the motherboard.
5.1 On the motherboard, check for three memory slots used to accept RAMs.
5.2 Insert the RAM into the memory slot until you hear a clicking sound.
5.3 Repeat the procedure for the other RAMs one-by-one and be careful as they are highly delicate and may break.
5.4 Engage the two latches on either side of the RAMs to position them firmly on the motherboard.
The RAMs will now be firmly attached to the motherboard.
Figure 5: Mounting the RAM onto the Motherboard
6. The sixth step is connecting the necessary power switches and lights onto the motherboard.
6.1 Using the user manual for the motherboard as a guide, find the necessary power cables to be connected.
6.2 Connect the power cables to the motherboard and the necessary drives that are, Hard Drive, ROMs, and Floppy Drive.
6.3 Check to confirm the steps of connecting the power cable to the drives and do not connect the power supply unit to an electricity source when the making connections.
6.4 Confirm that the power cables are firmly connected as any loose connection may have a drastic effect on the motherboard or the drives.
The power supply cables will now be firmly connected to both the motherboard and all the drives in the CPU casing.
Figure 6: Power Connection onto the Motherboard
7. The seventh step is connecting the IDE cables to the relevant ports.
7.1 Check on the motherboard and all the drives for the IDE ports to be connected.
7.2 Using the user manual for the motherboard as a guide, connect the IDE cables to the motherboard and the drives.
7.3 Make sure that the IDE cables are connected to the Motherboard, ROMs, Hard Drive, and Floppy Drive.
7.4 Check to confirm that the IDE cables are firmly connected to both the motherboard and all the necessary drives.
The drives will now be able to transmit data to the motherboard via the IDE cables connected to them and the motherboard.
Figure 7: IDE Connections to the Motherboard
8. The last step is reattaching the CPU casing panels and connecting the CPU to a monitor and a power source.
8.1 Slide the CPU casing panels carefully back into position and using a screwdriver; anchor the panels firmly using screws.
8.2 Connect the CPU to a monitor for image display.
8.3 Connect the CPU to a power source to power the motherboard and all the drives.
8.4 Press the on button to start the CPU.
The CPU will now display on the monitor; thus, install the intended operating system.
