Parts Needed To Build A Computer
There are some things that you will need in order to get started. The requirements are as follows:
- Computer Case with or without a power supply (some come with a power supplies while others don't)
- Motherboard
- RAM (Memory)
- Hard Drive
- Processor with heatsink
- CD/DVD-RW drive
- Floppy drive (optional)
- Keyboard
- Mouse
- Monitor (unless you already have one)
- Operating System (will discuss later)
There are a few sites that i recommend that carries all of the supplies that you will need. The two that I prefer are NewEgg and TigerDirect, you will find links to both of these sites under the Links section of this website. You need to first find a case that you like and find if it has a power supply or not, typically they do and a 300 watt power supply or above should be more than efficient.
Next you will need to look at motherboards, one important thing that you look at the measurements of the motherboard to make sure that it will fit in your case. You will also need to make sure that your processor is compatible with your motherboard, many times you will be able to buy a motherboard/processor combo.
Once you get your motherboard and processor you will need to look into RAM. There are many different types of RAM, DDR2 and DDR3 are the newest and the least expensive. You can check what type of RAM your motherboard takes and then purchase it.
With a hard drive you have 2 choices, IDE, which is a older and slower technology. SATA is a new technology and is faster as far as transfer speeds.With SATA you will need to make sure that your motherboard supports it. (Most new motherboards do).
You will then need to pick a CD/DVD drive as well, I would recommend a DVD/RW drive since they have come down in price.
As far as the monitor, it will probably be cheaper to go to Best Buy or Staples and buy one instead of paying for shipping on it. With the operating system you have a few choices as well. You can pick Windows Vista, Windows XP, or Ubuntu. You will find the link to download Ubuntu, which is free and open source in the Links section of this website.