How To Build A Gaming PC
The finest technology investment you can make is probably a gaming PC. A high-quality gaming system is immensely more adaptable and has more durability than the most robust streaming device, more capability than any video game console. Sorry console gamers!
Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a casual, or just a tech buff, it is the ideal instrument for any task, including writing up documents, editing photos, video production, and, of course, turning up the settings on the hottest triple A games. Some gaming PC systems may survive up to five to six years with routine maintenance and possibly even 10 with frequent improvements.
And if you want full control over every little detail, from thermals to casing, the perfect route is DIY. Assembling your own gaming computer is satisfying and provides you far more flexibility over the components that go into your tower. Those who are unfamiliar with the intricacies of a PC could find the procedure to be too difficult and choose a pre-built system. But you might be shocked to hear that constructing your own PC isn't that difficult!
Contrary to popular belief, putting together a computer system is really more enjoyable than it is hard. Unfortunately, you just wouldn't find it fun if you don't already enjoy researching a part's specifications. Going DIY is the only way you can fully appreciate your gaming machine; otherwise, all you would see is a box-shaped device with some RGB lights.
Don’t worry, RadioShack has created this useful step-by-step guide to help you construct your own gaming computer system. It’s also beginner friendly!
Step 1: Buy The Necessary Parts
In order for a gaming PC to boot up, you’re going to need various parts and components, the most important of which are the Motherboard, Input Unit, Output Unit, Central Processing Unit (CPU), Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), Random Access Memory (RAM), and the Storage Unit. These are the core of what makes your PC a PC. Regardless of what type of PC you are trying to assemble, it will always need the seven components mentioned above.
Step 2: Install The CPU
The procedure for installing a CPU might vary slightly based on your components, including the motherboard you have and whether you're utilizing an Intel or an AMD processor. But CPU sockets are usually found on the top of your motherboard. Lift the latch, insert the CPU, and then put the lock back in place.
Step 3: Insert the RAM
This one is easy, even for beginners. Just locate the RAM slots, release the clasps, determine which side of the RAM module should face the slot, and lock it into position. The second and fourth RAM slots are typically optimized on motherboards; however, yours may differ. It’s harder to mess this one up than it is to do it successfully, so you’re doing fine! Just make sure the RAM is completely locked in on both sides.
Step 4: Install Your Storage
Depending on the type of your motherboard, you might need to slide a large, bulky HDD into a specific drive bay or install a single, small M.2 SSD. You only need to lock the storage drive into the appropriate configuration and connect any required wires since each type of storage drive will have a specific slot on your motherboard or bay in your case.
Step 5: Install The Motherboard
Installing the motherboard is simple and only requires one entry point. Rule of thumb: The motherboard should not come into direct contact with the metal case frame. To avoid this, make sure to first install the standoffs, which some cases already have.
Step 6: Install The GPU
It is often relatively easy to install a GPU. The only challenge you’ll probably face is positioning a large card into the PCIe slot on the motherboard, which is usually small and dark. There is no magic technique to this.Just make sure the GPU's latch is down and that you have removed two slots from the case's rear to create room for the hardware.
Step 7: Insert The Power Supply
The installation of the power supply is probably the least enjoyable but most important step in creating a gaming PC. Nonetheless, it has a predefined placement in each case, so hooking it up shouldn't be difficult. But it's a little trickier to know which cables to join and where to route them all.
Step 8: Connect All The Cables
If not the most challenging, at least the aspect of PC assembly that calls for the most physical skill is linking all of your wires. At this stage, you need to connect anything that isn't immediately hooked up to the motherboard, from audio ports and front USB ports to fans, storage, and GPU.
Step 9: Boot Up, Troubleshoot, And Play!
You should now be able to turn on your PC by hitting the power button if all of you’ve followed all the steps mentioned above. Now, you need to install Windows or your preferred operating system. From this point on, using the computer will be as usual, so go play some Cyberpunk2077!