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RBMODS REVIEWS |
Date 2007-10-20
Author: Michael Chiu
Editor: Amber Lupala
Computer Build Guide Part 2 of 2, Assembling the Computer
V. Installing RAM
To install the RAM onto the motherboard, locate the slots on the motherboard that correspond to your memory. Next, push the levers at the end of the slots out. Orient the RAM such that the notch the module lines up with the slot. Finally, gentle press the module into place until the two levers latch onto the sides of the module. Don’t force it in; you might have to move the levers yourself depending on the fit.
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VI. Installing the video card
Installation of the video card is similar to the RAM installation. After locating the appropriate location for the video card and removing any dummy panels that cover up the opening for the card (make sure to match up the card with the appropriate socket (AGP, PCI, PCI-E)), push the card into the socket until the levers (if any) snap into place. Finally, secure the card to the case by installing a single screw to the top of the metal bracket. If you got a case that doesn´t need tools to install addon cards make sure that the locking mechanism is holding down the card.
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VII. Installing the power supply
To install the power supply, simply place the unit inside the case and secure it using 4 screws. The power supply should only go in one way based on the screw holes in the back. Don’t plug it in just yet. If you have a modular power supply count how many power cables you need and connect them to the appropriate connector on the power supply.
VIII. Installing the hard drives
As was described in part 1 of the guide, hard drives come in two flavors- PATA (IDE/ATA) and SATA. PATA drives take a little more effort to install; you first have to set a jumper on the back of the drive to specify if the drive is the master/primary drive or a slave/secondary drive on the channel/port that it’s installed on. Only one SATA drive is allowed per SATA port, so there is no need to set jumpers in this case.
Installation of the drive involves sliding the drive into an empty 3.5” slot in the motherboard and making sure the screw holes line up. Next, secure the drive using 4 screws and install the appropriate cables between the motherboard and the drive.
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IX. Installing the optical drives
Optical drives are installed very much like a hard drive. The only additional step is to make sure the drive is accessible from the front of the case, such that you can insert the floppy disk/CD/DVD. Cases are typically shipped with blank panels covering up the access holes, so remove them prior to installing the optical drive.
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X. Finishing the installation
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After installing all the drives and other internal components, plug in all the power connections as specified by the device manufacturer. Double-check to make sure all the components have been installed correctly and that you’re not missing anything.
Also, at this point you should also connect the monitor, keyboard, mouse, and power cord to the power supply. I suggest that you keep the computer disconnected from the Internet, to keep it away from any potential virus attacks as you install the software.
XI. Turning the computer on for the first time
Finally, the moment of truth: turning on the computer. After making sure that the power supply is plugged in and turned on, press the power button. If nothing happens, turn off the power and double-check the connections. If there is activity but a series of loud beeps, try to listen to the number as they provide diagnostic information. However, if all has gone well, you should see the BIOS start up. If you’re not too busy celebrating, try to hit F1 or Delete to enter the BIOS settings to see if everything is configured properly, such as the date/time and hardware configuration.
XII. Installing software
Now that you have a working computer, the next step is to install the operating system and all the software for your new computer. If you are installing Windows XP, restart the computer, insert the disk into the CD/DVD drive, and follow the instructions on the screen. Next, turn on the Windows software firewall (if you don’t have a firewall in place already) and connect the computer to the Internet. Then, connect to the Windows update website to download the latest updates/patches to Windows.
If you are installing Linux, follow a similar process and follow the on-screen instructions.
Once you’ve installed your operating system, install other critical software items such as drivers for your components and anti-virus software. Once you’re confident the computer is up and running, go ahead and install your software and enjoy your computer!
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