The 7 Steps to Take Before Buying Computer Hardware When Building a PC

Using these 7 steps before buying your computer hardware can save you time, money and make your computer assembly go as smooth as possible.

1. Deciding what you need versus what you want -

When building a new computer, figure out what you need a computer for, and build for that reason. Over-kill can be a big waste of money. Don't put a $300.00 video card in a system if you are only going to be using it to surf the web or run office programs.

2. Decide on the platform to build on -

The 2 main computer platforms are AMD or Intel. Choosing a platform to build on is a matter of personal opinion. Choose whichever you like as they both have their share of good and bad points.

3. Research the motherboards of your chosen platform -

After choosing a platform to build on, you will want to research motherboards of that particular platform (AMD or Intel based), making sure the motherboard you choose will have all the options that you will need (DDR, DDR2 or DDR3 dimm slots, PCIe 2.0 slots, number of Sata connections,etc.)

4. Research the processors of your chosen platform -

Again, Over-kill can be a big waste of money, decide on a processor that fits your needs ( if you never multi-task, a single core processor may be the way to go ).

5. Research other devices needed - memory, video card, hard drive, monitor, dvd/cd, floppy, case and power supply, keyboard and mouse -

After deciding on your platform, motherboard and processor, you will want to research and decide on the other components needed, making sure everything is compatible with your motherboard and that your chosen power supply is adequate.

6. Double check and verify compatibility of all parts with motherboard specifications -

It is always a good idea to double check your motherboard specifications with each individual component to verify compatibility (ATX motherboards must mount in a case that supports ATX form factors, etc.)

7. Make a list of all parts and perform price comparisons -

After choosing the parts you are going to use to build your new computer and verifying everything is compatible, you will want to make a list of each part and start price comparing as there could be a big difference in the price of each part depending on where you shop.

These steps can seem like a lot to do, but they can save you a lot of money and headache when it comes to finding the best brand PC hardware, while at the same time you will also be learning about how to assemble a computer.

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