What is needed to assemble a computer. How to build a powerful gaming computer yourself? What you need to know if you buy a video card second-hand

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It is worth noting the following point. Budget motherboards are equipped with a 4-pin CPU power connector. So we divide the existing 8-pin cable into two 4-pin cables with our hands and connect to the board. Expensive motherboards, on the contrary, are equipped with an additional connector in addition to the 8-pin connector. The trick is that in this case everything will work from one 8-pin wire. An additional port is needed if, for example, you seriously overclock the central processor. But then you will need an accompanying power supply or adapter.

Step #5: installing storage drives and optical drive

For desktop PCs, there are two most common drive form factors: 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch. Plus they are gaining popularity solid state drives with M.2 connector. As for the latter, everything is simple with this form factor: the device is installed directly into a port soldered on the motherboard. But 2.5- and 3.5-inch drives must first be secured in the case.

In 99% of cases, the case is equipped with a special basket with a slide. The manufacturer also indicates in the specifications the number of slots for 2.5- and 3.5-inch drives, as well as 5.25-inch devices. In the case of the Fractal Design Define R5, two metal baskets are used. The first (top) can accommodate five 3.5-inch or the same number of 2.5-inch drives. The second (bottom) is three. In some cases these baskets may be removable. Plus, this particular case has two seats for 2.5-inch drives behind the chassis.

Not all computer cases optionally support the installation of 2.5-inch drives. True, many SSD manufacturers complete their products with special adapters for 3.5-inch sleds. They are usually packed in cardboard boxes, but not sealed in a blister.

Let's first determine the amount of the budget for the PC we are building, and also clarify that this budget applies to what will be placed in the system unit - this amount does not take into account the monitor, keyboard and mouse, since these components are the subject of a separate discussion.

And in this article, speaking about inexpensive computer, we will mean the budget for assembling a PC “from scratch” is no more than 30,000 rubles. For assembly we need the following components:

CPU;
System board;
Hard drive;
System case with power supply;
Video card;
Optical drive for CD/DVD discs.

Microprocessor selection

The computer processor is the main center of the computer's computing capabilities, and recently the graphics core has also been transferred to its substrate, so the assembly can exist without an external video card. However, in our case we are talking about a powerful PC, so we need an external video card.

The choice of processor will determine the base platform of our PC. Today the most popular remain Intel platforms and AMD. We will build on the Intel platform, since processors from the computer giant Intel are considered more efficient and economical, although they are inferior in graphics capabilities to their AMD counterparts.

There is no point in saving on a microprocessor, since we want a powerful computer. We will also provide for the purchase of a boxed version of the microprocessor, which comes with a heat sink unit. Our choice will be a microprocessor with an LGA 1150 socket, which is by far the most common. The cost of this component should not exceed $100, and therefore good decision V in this case will become Pentium G3220 or G3240. Its cost will not even exceed $90.

System board

What we should save on is when choosing a motherboard, but even here the savings should be within reasonable limits. By selecting a microprocessor, we have significantly narrowed down our motherboard options, as we now only need to choose from those that provide the LGA 1150 socket.

Savings in choosing a motherboard concern its layout. We don't need to buy a motherboard equipped with connectors that will never be used - this applies, for example, to RAID arrays. And the more connectors and “wider” wiring, the more expensive motherboard. For our needs, it is enough that the motherboard has USB, SATA connectors and one PCI-Express connector for connecting a video card. In addition, almost all modern solutions have a built-in LAN port and VGA connector. In our budget case, we shouldn’t choose from full-size ATX, but mATX is quite suitable. Let's choose a motherboard from GigaByte - this is the GA-B85M-D2V board. It costs about $80, so we've already spent $170. Its connectors and ports are sufficient not only to connect internal PC components, but also to connect all the necessary computer peripherals.

The motherboard we selected has two slots for DIMM memory sticks of the DDR3 type. At the same time, the supported frequency is 1333-1600 MHz, and the memory capacity is up to 16 GB. In our case, at first 4 GB will be enough - we will fill only one slot. It is necessary, however, to understand that in 32-bit Windows user A little less than 4 “gigs” will be available. A smaller amount of memory cannot place a modern PC in the category of powerful ones, since the same operating system Windows environment 8 (64-bit version) already requires 2 GB of memory, and modern applications are also very demanding in this matter. Therefore, our choice will be on Kingston DDR3 4Gb 1600 MHz memory. Its cost is about 50 dollars, and therefore the total amount of our purchase has already reached 220 dollars.

Video card

This is a component that you shouldn’t skimp on either, since it is the video card that is responsible for generating and outputting the computer’s graphics. The higher the memory capacity of the graphics card, the higher the monitor resolution your PC can support, and the higher its bit depth, the faster graphics can be generated and displayed. In our case, we will need a budget option with a 64-bit bus and 2 GB GDDR3 memory. Let's choose a video card from the company Sapphire worth 80 dollars. In the future, it can be easily replaced with a more powerful one. Thus, the total amount of our purchase grows to $300, and we still have to choose a system unit, optical drive and hard drive.

Hard drive

Now we don’t need to purchase external hard drives in bulk, we need an internal HDD - we’ll opt for a classic hard drive and won’t consider solid-state drives. The most common average hard drive size today is 500 GB, but some “terabytes” are only $10 more expensive. If you come across an IDE interface, then we skip such an HDD and pay attention to the SATA interface. In our case, for example, hard from Western Digital WD10EZEX. The volume of this HDD is 1 TB, and the spindle speed is 7200 rpm. Also, it has a 64 MB cache and SATA interface 3, which is supported by our motherboard. The hard one we chose cost about $85, bringing our total purchase to $385.

System unit

To combine all the purchased components, we will need an inexpensive system unit with a 400 W power supply - this power is enough to service the purchased components. Since we chose a motherboard of the micro-ATX form factor, it is enough for us that this case supports motherboards of this particular form factor. But in the future, the computer user may want to upgrade it, and therefore we will choose a case that also supports full-size motherboards ATX form factor. In this case, a case, for example, from Logicpower with a built-in power supply for $30, is perfect. Thus, our amount increased to $415.

Optical drive

For full-fledged work, we also need an inexpensive optical drive that can play the contents of CDs and DVDs. We will need a drive with a SATA interface that costs no more than $25.

Our purchase did not exceed $500, but we assembled a fairly powerful computer with good technical performance and the ability to further modernize it. The motherboard, for example, allows you to add another memory stick and a number of expansion cards. The video card can be replaced with a more powerful one, and the case supports the ability to replace the motherboard itself with a full-size ATX version. In addition, the cooling system in the case can be improved by installing an additional case cooler. At the same time, we invested less than $450-500. It should also be taken into account that you will have to spend money on two data cables for hard drive and an optical drive, but their cost is incomparably less than the amount spent on assembly.

The computer configurator with compatibility check allows you to quickly assemble a system unit with the user’s needs technical characteristics. Using our online designer, you can easily assemble a reliable office machine, a home multimedia system unit, or a powerful gaming configuration.

Computer assembly online

Nowadays, like many years before, assembling a computer from independently selected components is popular. This good opportunity choose what you want. Nothing limits you; there are hundreds of options available for assembly, among which there is sure to be one you like.

Our online store offers the opportunity to assemble a computer online through the configurator. In it this process presented in the form of component categories, from processor to power supply. Each category contains an expanded range of models with descriptions of characteristics for ease of selection.

To simplify the selection of components, the configurator has a compatibility filter for the main components of the assembly. For example, by selecting a specific processor, the following components are automatically filtered by compatibility. Also, you will be presented with a choice to install operating system. After completing the assembly process, you receive the final result based on three parameters: price, technical data, rendered image. After placing an order and confirming it by phone, our specialists assemble this kit and check its functionality.

The advantage of this method of purchasing system unit is that you not only choose the components you want, but also have the opportunity to choose the brand or manufacturer of the part.

Having assembled a certain configuration and completed by pressing the assemble/buy buttons, the assembly is assigned a specific serial number, by typing it in the product search bar, you can find this PC and send a link to it to friends or acquaintances for consultation or recommending them for purchase.

An important feature of our configurator is the “get an expert’s opinion” function by sending your request via this form, You will receive a detailed answer with a recommendation for email, specified by you.

Try it and see for yourself - assembling a computer online is easy and simple! In case of difficulties, you can always get advice from our specialists on all issues that interest you.

By choosing computer components yourself, you will not only be able to select components that best suit your needs, but also significantly reduce the final cost of the computer as a whole.

Very often in stores, sellers of finished products “scare” buyers who are inexperienced in IT issues with the fact that computer components purchased separately cannot be replaced if they break down under warranty. Nothing of the kind. Rest assured, you will receive a guarantee for each element and in case of any breakdowns you can easily fix them using the warranty card. Let us consider in more detail the information on how and what components should be selected.

We select the processor, motherboard and RAM

First of all, we need stuffing for the system unit. Let's start with . First, clearly decide for what purposes the desktop PC will be used. If one of them is “stuck” in computer games, then go straight to the category of powerful processors. Remember: than more powerful processor, the higher the speed of the computer device.

Pay attention to two indicators: clock speed (at least 2 GHz) and RAM (at least 2 GB). It would be better if these figures were even higher.

Advice. When choosing a processor, always pay attention to the cache memory (an excellent indicator for it is from 3 MB).

The basis of the "machine". Today, the most venerable manufacturers of this computer element are: Asus, Gigabyte, Foxconn, Msi, etc. A powerful computer will require an ATX motherboard, since it has a larger number of connectors and slots that allow it to be improved. In addition, such a motherboard is much easier to install in a system unit.

Advice. Before purchasing a motherboard, be sure to check its compatibility with the selected processor (the connector type of the motherboard and processor must match), otherwise problems may arise during installation.

And finally - the RAM. On at the moment most popular RAM DDR3 type. It is this option that we will focus on. But choosing the type of RAM is not everything. Also pay attention to the amount of RAM - you should choose models with at least 4 GB of working capacity, and even better - 8 GB.

Selecting a video card

The quality of all images appearing on your computer will depend on the choice in the future, so the choice of this element should be taken no less seriously than all the previous ones. The principle of choice is very similar to RAM - the larger the volume and frequency own memory video cards, the better. As for manufacturers, Nvidia and AMD have already firmly occupied the niche of the best manufacturers of computer components of this kind.

Advice. Don’t be afraid to “run into” an unscrupulous manufacturer (the likelihood of such a situation is close to zero). This is because developing video chips is a rather expensive “pleasure”, and just anyone can hardly afford it.

The vast majority of companies use technology and produce computer products, licensing from global giants.

A few words about the power supply

The minimum power of the selected power supply should be 600 watts. In addition, it would be nice if the power supply comes with a UPS (source uninterruptible power supply). And most importantly, the total output power of the power supply. Keep in mind that it should be 40-50% more power consumed by all other components of the system unit.

Hard drive (hard drive) selection options

Let's not beat around the bush and say that for desktop computer the best option will install at least two hard drives. One (with high speed rotation - from 7200 rpm) - for operating system; the second (with a rotation speed of 5400 rpm) is for storing various files. It is important to understand that the main task of a hard drive is long-term storage of information. Based on this, you should choose its capacity. For example, if you are a music/movie lover, then higher capacitive drives will be your best option.

IN lately prices for hard drives have dropped significantly and it is quite possible to purchase a 1 TB drive.

Advice. When purchasing a hard drive, make sure that it is a SATA3 type and that the manufacturer provides a warranty for it.

Choosing an optical drive

For a high-quality modern drive, two indicators are extremely important: file read and write speeds. The optimal models will be those presented by well-known manufacturers: SONY, PIONEER, etc. We do not recommend purchasing outdated models, such as CD-ROMs, etc. In general, it is quite difficult to find them on the computer components market.

Additional components: monitor, keyboard, mouse, speakers

The choice of a working monitor should largely be determined by the goals pursued during the operation of the computer. If you plan to work behind it most of the time, then you should not choose too large a diagonal. If you are a gamer or want to organize your own cinema in the evenings, you will need a larger diagonal, as well as resolution (the clarity of the screen image depends on it). Accordingly, the cost of such a monitor will be higher.

When choosing a keyboard, you can already take a walk. Again, if the computer will be used primarily for work, then you should give preference to a keyboard with a pyramidal layout; if you are a gamer, then, accordingly, your option is a keyboard with special buttons for gamers.

Choosing a mouse is perhaps the easiest step in selecting computer components. It is enough for it to be as comfortable as possible for your hand and suit you with its external characteristics.

Assembling computer components with your own hands

After all the elements have been selected and delivered home, it’s time to start assembling them into a single whole. Before you begin the assembly process, remember an important rule: all components have special protection against improper installation. And if a part “doesn’t work,” you shouldn’t persist: try installing it differently.

Let's look at the process of assembling a computer schematically:

Remove the side cover of the system unit and install the power supply. The mounting holes are located in such a way that you can't go wrong.
Then we proceed to installing coolers. Their minimum number is two. One of them works for air supply and is located in the front part of the system unit (bottom); the other one draws out hot air and is located in the rear of the system unit. We use self-tapping screws or rubber clamps as fasteners.
We connect all the “neighbors” to the motherboard: processor, cooling system and RAM modules. The processor is fixed so that the motherboard socket and the processor contacts match. Be sure to apply a thin layer of thermal paste to the surface already installed processor to avoid various types of damage when it comes into contact with the cooler. We attach the cooler to top part processor using special clamps, bolts, etc.

We connect the cooler power cable to the motherboard (CPU FAN connector).
We fix the racks for the motherboard and its cover in the system unit. It will prevent dust from getting inside.
The next step is installing the RAM. Open the latches, insert the modules into the slots and press lightly until they click.
It's the motherboard's turn. We lower it to a place specially prepared for it in the body. Then we check that all the connectors on the back wall are in place. We fasten the motherboard with screws to the racks already fixed in the case.
We install the optical drive in one of the upper compartments of the system unit (there may be several of them). First, remove the plug and then insert the drive there from the outside. We fasten it with screws.
The compartments located at the bottom are for hard drives. We install them either from the inside or from the side so that the power and signal cables can be connected to them. We fix it with screws.
We break open the plug where the video card is installed (the back wall of the system unit). We clean the contacts with an eraser and insert the card into the slot, pressing lightly on it until it clicks. Then we screw it on.
The most unpleasant moment is connecting the wires. Be especially careful. Power is supplied to the motherboard via ATX (it can only be inserted in one position). Be sure to secure it with a latch.
The optical drive and hard drive are powered by L-shaped connectors.
Power to the video card (if any) is connected using a 6-pin connector.
Don't forget about case coolers. We power them by connecting to the motherboard via the SYS(CHA)_FAN connectors.
Connect the front panel of the case to the motherboard. All case indicators are connected to the same connectors on the motherboard.
All that remains is to connect the external USB connectors and the audio output.
Inside the system unit we have a complex web of wires, which needs to be brought into a more or less “divine” form. We arm ourselves with nylon ties and act.

Now we close the cover of the system unit and connect to it a monitor, mouse, keyboard and all other accessories purchased in the store.

So our article has come to an end. Now you are armed with information on how you can put together a great personal computer on your own quickly and correctly. We wish you good luck!