Which parts do I buy? Which are the best?
If
you click on the "Parts" button, you will see a list of the parts
needed to build a PC. You will also see
exactly which parts we chose for our PC and a list of manufacturers we
recommend. Use this as a guide when
choosing your own parts.
Keep
in mind that technology changes very rapidly - as of this writing, we’ve
updated the parts list to include recommendations for newer components that
take advantage of these changes.
Although these parts are newer than the ones we used, the general
installation procedures are similar.
Always remember to read and understand the component’s instruction
manual before installing it.
Where is the best place to buy parts?
There
are many good places to buy computer parts.
One option is to go to a large computer retail store in your area; the
support is generally good and most retail stores provide reasonable exchange
policies. The trade-off is that you’ll
pay a little more than you would in other places; sometimes you can pay a lot
more - so be sure to shop around and compare prices.
Most
towns have smaller stores that sell and repair computer equipment. These are not large retail stores, but
instead usually occupy an office suite in a strip mall. Regardless of location, such stores are often
less expensive and can provide individual attention. Their hardware is typically retail packaged
from the manufacturer, but they also sell OEM hardware, which is usually
wrapped plainly and has very little documentation. This is generally good hardware and costs a
lot less, however, if you feel you need documentation, you should not buy OEM
hardware.
The
third alternative is buying the hardware at a Computer Show. Most good-sized cities have computer shows
nearby. These shows are like swap meets
or flea markets. Computer parts vendors
show up to sell their merchandise and because there are many vendors selling
the same item, competition is very fierce.
This is good for you, because you’ll be able to buy a lot of products at
deep discounts. The only negative aspect
with computer shows is that service can become a problem. If you need to exchange something or have a
problem, it might be difficult for you to contact a vendor. For this reason, we recommend you only make
purchases from vendors who have a store somewhere nearby. That way after the show, they can be easily
contacted for an exchange if necessary.
Another tip is always to buy brand-name products.
Other Case Designs
Some
manufacturers of cases have made efforts to make their cases
"screw-less". With this
design, you usually take hold of the bottom front of the case and give it a
nice solid yank - the front then pulls off.
In our experience this usually requires a few tries and some muscle -
but most cases are pretty durable. After
you pull off the front, the sides lift and slide off and you just lift the top
off. Your case comes apart in four
pieces.
Other
such cases have a similar design - always consult the case’s instruction manual
to determine exactly how your case should be opened.
Static Electricity
Static
electricity is nothing to be taken lightly.
Believe it or not, your body can store thousands of volts of static
electricity, which translates into certain death to virtually all of your PC’s
delicate components. It is vital that
you always ground yourself by touching the bare metal case chassis before and
during the upgrade process. It is also a
good idea to work on a non-carpeted surface in your home. As an extra precaution, you can purchase a
wrist-strap grounding device at most electronic stores; this will slide over
your wrist and provide a constant ground for extra safety.
