Logo

How to build a PC from scratch

Step by step guide on how to build a pc

building a pc can be pretty hard so heres a good guide to follow:

  1. Prepare the PC Case: Remove the side panels and set them aside along with the screws. Keep the screws safe for reassembly later, ensure the case is clean and free of dust. For the next few steps, work outside the case to make installation easier.
  2. Install the CPU: Open the CPU socket on the motherboard by gently pressing the metal lever, align the cpu with the socket markers (look for the small arrow on both the CPU and socket). Carefully place the CPU into the socket without touching the pins or the top of the chip. Lower the lever to secure the CPU in place.
  3. Install the cpu Cooler: If your cooler does not have pre-applied thermal paste, apply a small pea-sized dot of thermal paste to the center of the CPU. Attach the cooler to the CPU according to the manufacturers instructions. Secure it firmly and connect the cooler's fan cable to the appropriate header on the motherboard.
  4. Install ram: Locate the ram slots on the motherboard. Open the clips on the slots. Align the notches on the ram stick with the ridge in the slot and press down firmly until the clips snap into place. If you are using multiple sticks, refer to the motherboard manual for the correct configuration.
  5. Install the Power Supply (PSU): Place the PSU in the designated area of the case, usually at the bottom near the back. Ensure the fan faces outward for proper airflow. Secure the PSU with screws and route the cables through the case for a clean build.
  6. Install the Motherboard: Attach the I/O shield to the case. Align the motherboard with the standoffs in the case and secure it with screws. Connect the 24-pin power cable and the 8-pin CPU power cable from the PSU to the motherboard.
  7. Install the GPU: Locate the PCIe x16 slot on the motherboard. Remove the corresponding slot cover on the case. Insert the GPU into the PCIe slot and secure it with screws. Connect the necessary power cables from the PSU to the GPU.
  8. Install Storage: Mount SSDs or HDDs in the drive bays. For 2.5-inch SSDs, use the appropriate mounting brackets or screws. For M.2 SSDs, insert them into the M.2 slot on the motherboard and secure them with the provided screw. Connect SATA cables (if applicable) to the motherboard and power cables to the PSU.
  9. Connect Accessories: Attach front panel connectors (power button, USB, audio, etc.) to the motherboard. Connect case fans to the motherboard or PSU. Ensure all cables are routed neatly to improve airflow.
  10. Test the System: Double-check all connections. Plug in the power cable and turn on the system. Ensure all fans are spinning and the system boots to BIOS. Verify that all components are detected.
  11. Install the Operating System: Use a bootable USB drive to install your OS. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. Once the OS is installed, install the necessary drivers for your components.