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RBMODS REVIEWS |
Date 2007-10-17
Author: Michael Chiu
Editor: Amber Lupala
Computer Build Guide (part 1 of 2)-
This is the first of a two part series on how to build a computer. Part one provides general tips for choosing components for the new computer. Part two goes through the steps of integrate these components together into a computer
Part One- Choosing Components for the New Computer
I. Overview
This guide provides you with a basic, general overview of how to build a computer. Building a computer gives you the flexibility to customize your setup and know exactly what parts are being used in your computer. However, the flexibility comes with a downside; your build won’t necessarily be cheaper, and if you’re not careful you could end up choosing parts that are not compatible with each other.
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The goal of this guide is not to put together a shopping list of what to buy, since new products are coming out all the time. But that’s why rbmods.com is so useful; we provide reviews of these products to help you decide what parts to buy.
The first thing to consider when deciding to put together a computer is what the computer’s purpose is. Will the computer be used for gaming? Multimedia/video recording? Intensive computing? By determining how the computer will be used, you can start to narrow down the trade space. Here are some general categories to help get your started:
a. Basic computer- if you are looking to do to basic computer functions (word processing, email, surfing the Internet, etc) and nothing fancy, a low-end computer will probably suit your needs. You don’t need the most cutting-edge products and may even consider purchasing a pre-build computer (but where’s the fun in that?).
b. Gaming computer- as today’s PC games get more sophisticated and graphics intensive, you’ll want to focus on the audio and video capabilities of your system. You’ll also want to be mindful of the next generation of hardware, to ensure that your system can be upgraded in the future. Interested in LAN parties? Size and weight of the components may be a factor also.
c. High-end computer (i.e. a workstation)- if you are using the cutting-edge applications that require high computing, you’ll want to focus on processor speed and memory size. You’ll probably also want a decent video setup and room to add additional hard drives.
d. Home theater computer (HTPC)- computers are now becoming a central component in home entertainment/home theater setups. If you are looking to build a dedicated rig to record video, burn DVDs, and play mp3s, you may consider looking at cases and accessories geared toward the HTPC market. Since these computers are often in the family room, looks and the quietness of the computer are typically important factors.
e. Laptop- if portability is a deciding factor and you are willing to spend extra money for the same performance that can be found in a desktop, a laptop may be for you. This guide probably won’t be applicable to this category, since most laptop users purchase their laptops preassembled.
Now that you’ve considered what type of computer to build, the next obvious question is the size of the budget. The next few sections will provide general price ranges for each of the different categories; shop around for good deals if you have time.
The next few sections provide information/things to consider for components found in typical builds.
II. Case basics
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Computer cases have come along way since the early days of computers. Cases come in all shapes and sizes and can range from under $50USD to over $500 depending on the features. As its name suggests, the computer case will house most of your computer equipment (except for peripherals).
Most cases as of today are designed to be ATX (Advanced Technology Extended) compliant. ATX is a type of form factor (size and dimensions) standard. By buying ATX compatible parts, you’ll know that they’ll fit together when installed. Other less popular form factors include microATX, which as its name suggests is a smaller form factor, and BTX, which was touted as the replacement to ATX but has not gained wide acceptance. Some cases will accept multiple form factors; check your case specifications.
Choosing a case is personal decision and depends on your application. If you plan on stuffing the computer underneath a desk and rarely looking at it, then you probably don’t need to spend very much on a case. If you want to show off your case and add accessories such as LEDs and displays, there’s probably a case on the market for you. Another thing to consider when choosing a case is the number of drive and card slots; make sure the case has enough room for all the computer components.
Please click on thumbnails to get bigger pictures
Links to a few rbmods.com case reviews:
Coolermaster Cosmos Case Review
Spire JetBlack - SP-7060B Case Review
XCLIO Windtunnel Case Review
XCLIO 3060Plus Case Review
Thermaltake VF1000BNS Lanbox
Ultra Grid Computer Case + XVS 700W Power Supply Review
Silverstone GD01 HTPC case
Spire BlackFin Case Review
Coolermaster Itower 930 case
Current Real Time Pricing
Next step, motherboards >>>>> Page 2
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