Building a PC?

[cargoa45]

I am considering to build a PC myself! TO save money and get what I exactly want. But I need some help to get started:
What are the components (RAM, Graphics), can you list them please? And what is the best place to buy them?

Thank you!
Abdul

[GSLOW]

Correct me if I'm wrong but to get a computer running you need;

Power Pack
Case
Motherboard
Graphics card
RAM (random access memory)
Processor(s)
Ethernet connection port(s)
An operating system (XP, Vista, Linux, etc.)

[cargoa45]

Thanks, and also is the motherboard also the processor correct? Because I didnt see any parts fo that in my pc.

[doospank]

The processor and motherboard are different parts. When you are choosing a motherboard you will have to pay attention to the "CPU Socket Type" on the motherboard. AM2 is the most common socket type for AMD CPU's while LGA 775 is the most common socket type for Intel CPU's.

Basic parts you may or may not need:

Case
Power Supply Unit (PSU)
Motherboard
Computer Processing Unit (CPU / Processor)
Random Access Memory (RAM / Memory)
Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
Optical Disc Drive (ODD / probably DVD RW drive)
Video Card
Sound Card
Modem
CPU Fan (Heatsink) & Case Fans
Keyboard & Mouse
Monitor


Not all parts listed are required depending on what you already have and what you purchase. I'd start with picking a CPU, then look for a motherboard with the proper socket type. From there you can pick the other parts. When picking a case pay attention to if it includes fans and what kind of fans you can add to it. If you are going to buy a CPU fan make sure it is designed for the correct socket type and fits onto your motherboard.

Some sites you can use to buy parts:
http://www.newegg.com/
http://www.tigerdirect.com/ - haven't personally used the site
http://www.geeks.com/ - haven't personally used the site
http://www.pricewatch.com/ - to compare prices and buy

Post any questions or ideas you have if you are unsure, someone will be glad to help. Also you can use Google to answer a lot of your questions. There are 100's of guides out there telling you how to build a computer from what parts to pick to how to put it together. I'd pick the parts for your own but you can read through some to get an idea of what you need and don't need.

Here is a random site you can start with:
http://www.mysuperpc.com/

Doo

[orogle]

You will not save money by building a computer instead of buying one off the shelf!!!


the advantage to building your own is:
you will get much better parts with great ability to upgrade or make changes.

I have spare parts (except for a case) in case something goes out I can get back up and running.



doorspank listed many good sources.

I also goto buy.com since I found antec brand power supplies for half price there. egghead had my ecs motherboard for ten dollars off with free shipping.

takes a while to shop but you can save a few dollars.


*************

I like to mount the processor, fan, and memory in the board before I put it into the case.
I take the motherboard and place it on the static pad that comes with the board onto a desk, then I plug the powersupply into the motherboard and use a pen to shorten the power pins to start the computer. That way I make sure the board will boot into bios before I assemble the entire unit.

cya

[cargoa45]

Thank you very much for the help guys! Its greatly appreciated.