- last post: 01.01.0001 12:00 AM PDT
Argh, fine, I guess I'm forced to write a little something...get ready for my first uberlong post of the summer. Most of this is from my personal knowledge, so feel free to correct me if you wish. You can also check out the guides section at the top of the Maw for some extra information. I think they have several threads about building your own computer.
A computer is basically sort of like an intricate, higher-level lego set. Everything snaps and screws into place, nothing that can't be put together without a screwdriver or your hands. It's obviously a little more fragile than that, but still manageable.
CPU-Arguably the most important part of the computer. This is the bit that keeps your computer going. If you want a higher-end PC, I would wait until AMD releases its next gen processor that's supposed to overtake the clockspeeds on the latest, most powerful comerically-avalible Intel CPU. If you can't wait, I would suggest getting something by AMD, since they manage tasks more efficiently. Dual Core is a feasible option if you so desire, since Windows Vista will appear soon and support Dual-Core technology. Also, I would highly recommend getting something that uses 64-bit technology, since those are almost going to be required for next-generation games and tech.
GPU-There should be a thread about GPU's by SLD, go check the guides if you so desire, there should be a thread marked "The Buyer's Guide to Graphics Cards." Therefore, I need not reiterate. Just make sure whatever card you have will support Aero on Windows Vista...
RAM-Try to get at least 512, that's the norm nowadays. However, for optimal performance, I recommend at least 1GB of RAM...that ensures a smoother computer performance. Try to watch for Corsair RAM, that's considered a pretty high-quality name in RAM makers.
Cooling-Computer forums will cover this in more detail, but you're gonna fry your computer from the inside out unless you provide ample cooling. Mostly, you can choose between watercooling or aircooling. Watercooling's better if you're planning on OCing your processor, I believe. Cooling is also dependent on the chassis you purchase, since certain chasses won't support larger watercooling systems, for example.
Mobo-The thing that holds everything together. Going back to the lego reference in the beginning, this is the base plate, the thing that every single part depends on and that every bit snaps together onto. I recommend checking out stuff by Asus, I've heard they're pretty good quality. Make sure that all the above mentioned parts can fit onto your mobo, though.
Peripherals-Keyboards and Mice cost about 30 for a decent set, a little more if you want a precision (aka high-quality optical or a laser) mouse. Pick a monitor that suits your needs best, but ALWAYS remember that it MUST be easy-to-read. This is something you might want to purchase from the store itself, since ordering off the internet doesn't necessarily guarantee you a good screen. If you watch a lot of movies, you should go for a widescreen, if you play games, a hi-rez screen with a fast refresh rate is optimal, if you do a lot of movie making or multimedia etc, the bigger the better.
PSU-Depends on everything else and the amount of power everything will need.
And that about wraps it up. Good luck. Me15ter out...