If you are new to building your own custom gaming computer, this article will introduce you to the main components that make up a gaming PC. These components will be the guts of your gaming machine, so you need to choose them carefully. Starting with perhaps the most important part of any computer system:
CPU / Processor
The Central Processing Unit (also known as the processor) is considered the brains of a computer. It does all the mathematical calculations that the software asks it to. Without a decent CPU in your gaming PC, your games won't run very fast.
Motherboard
If the CPU is the brains of a computer, then the motherboard is the heart. All other components connect to the motherboard one way or another, so it acts as the hub of all the components in your PC. If you lack a good motherboard in your system, your gaming PC won't perform well no matter how good your other components are.
RAM
The RAM (Random Access Memory) in a computer is the memory that running programs rely on. The more RAM you put in your gaming PC, the faster your programs and games will run.
Hard Drive
The hard drive is used to store all your programs and data. You need a hard drive big enough to fit all your stuff on it, without it clogging up due to lack of room.
Graphics Card
The graphics card (also known as video card) will be one of the most important parts of your gaming PC. It is the component responsible for drawing all the 3D graphics and special effects that you see in the games you play. You need to get a good graphics card to be able to play the latest games in all their glory.
Case and Power Supply
Pretty self explanatory, the computer case houses all your precious little components under one roof. The power supply provides power to your PC. These two components are essential for a working gaming PC.
Conclusion
We have covered the main workhorse components that you will need to build your gaming PC with. You should also consider other components such as a sound card, networking card, and CD/DVD Drive, amongst others, to complete your gaming PC.
Check out Julien's website Build-Gaming-Computers.com for more information on building your own gaming PC.
Safety Tips to Building a Computer
There are some important precautions you should take into account when building a computer to ensure the safety of you and your computer parts. This article gives you some helpful tips on building your computer in the safest way possible.
Stay Safe With Electricity
Electricity is an important issue to consider with dangerous implications for those who ignore it. When building your computer, be 100% sure that the power supply is disconnected from the mains. Also make sure that all network cables and telephone lines are disconnected from the computer.
Another electricity safety tip is to only turn the power on to your computer when the case cover is on. Don't ever work on the inside of your computer with the power plugged in and turned on.
Be Aware of Static Electricity
Static electricity is a real hazard than can cause significant damage to your computer components. To prevent this from happening, follow these simple tips:
- Always wear an antistatic wrist band when building your computer.
- Keep sensitive components in the antistatic bags that they came with, and only remove them from the bag when you are ready to install that component.
- Try to handle your computer components by their edges only.
- Avoid building your computer in areas of high static such as carpeted areas. If you can, try to avoid wearing clothing such as those made of synthetics as they may create static.
Use the Right Tools for the Job
These days, building a computer doesn't require many tools at all. But if you're going to be using a tool, make sure you use the right one for the job. Some tools that you may need for assembly are:
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flat nose screwdriver
- Pliers
- Antistatic wrist band (highly recommended)
- Nut driver (optional)
Conclusion
After reading this article you should now be aware of the main safety issues you need to consider when building a computer. Follow this advice and you will greatly reduce the risk of damaging your computer, or yourself.
Check out Julien's website on How to Build Gaming Computers for more information on building your own custom gaming computers.
Sound Card Buyer's Guide
If you want to buy a sound card, you should ask yourself whether you really need one. The motherboards of today come equipped with great on-board sound. Some motherboards even have support for 5.1 surround sound and come with a range of audio optical ports. So if you plan on using your computer to listen to music, play games, or any other basic things to do with sound, you should definitely consider staying with on-board sound.
On the other hand, there are two good reasons why you would want to buy a sound card:
Producing: If you're producing music you'll need a high quality sound card for the very best sound quality. Your sound card will probably need some extra ports/connections that on-board sound doesn't provide.
Gaming: If you want the very best gaming experience possible, that means having the very best sound. So you'll want a sound card to do this. You can probably pick up a decent sound card for gaming at 100 bucks or less.
Surround Sound
An important factor in choosing your sound card is the sound standards that it supports. Most high-end sound cards support what is called EAX and 5.1 surround sound. This means you can hook up to 5 speakers to your sound card for a great 3D sound experience. Some cards even support the newer 7.1 surround sound.
Special Features
If you need some particular type of feature on your sound card, make sure you take this into account. Music producers will have the most needs, such as multi-channel support, MIDI support, good signal to noise ratio, and plenty of connectivity options if needed. Gamers won't need to be so picky with their sound card, surround sound is probably their largest concern.
Finally, if you're buying a high-end sound card, make sure your computer will be able to take advantage of it. There's no point having a great sound card if your CPU can't handle it. This is an important point to consider before going out and buying your sound card.
Check out Julien's website on How to Build Gaming Computers for more information on building your own gaming PC.
