Hello readers!
Many seem to wonder how can anyone possibly plan and build a computer from scratch? There are more different parts that anyone cares to count and you ought to know absolutely everything? Well, it ain't quite that complicated, though it might seem like it at first. Here's my process as an example:
Everything usually begins by determining the purpose of the computer. This might sound simple but the purpose defines a lot about which parts is actually needed for the computer. Examples of different purpose could be a purely gaming computer, media computer for living room, computer for work, for editing, server etc.
Next thing to consider is the budget. This is a big factor in the planning, cause everything costs in this world. The actual purpose defines the minimum price with which to get anything. Naturally, the bigger the budget, the better performance the computer will have but it's not the point. For example, for simple writing or reading emails, it's pointless to spend a fortune on a video card but in a gaming computer it'll create more power. At this stage it's also important to know whether or not you already have any equipment or parts as it may impact what you need to get with your budget.
Then the planning itself. These days, a computer has at least the following parts: The case, mainboard, a processor and its cooler, ram-memory, hard drive, power source, screen, controllers (usually a mouse and a keyboard) and a operating system (such as Windows 10). If the mainboard doesn't have an build-in video card then you need to get one. Most of the current mainboards have an audio circuit and a network adapter driver so they aren't mandatory. It's very important to choose the right and compatible parts, which can be complex, if you're not acquainted with these things. Many processors and mainboards aren't compatible with each other, which is the most common mistake many rookies do. When you're satisfied with your part list, then in this internet time it's relatively easy to see where to find the parts cheaply.
Ones you've got the parts, you can start building. In this stage, it would help, if you had a relatively large table. You have to use caution with static electricity as it may break electronic parts, so no hairy pets near or a sweater on. With many components, there might be a set of instructions, it's worth to pay attention to them, as the warning are usually there for a reason. In a nut shell, the power sourse, mainboard, hard drive, and the potential video card are installed into the case. The processor and its cooler, the ram-memory and the hard drive wire are attached to the mainboard. The wires from the mainboard, hard drive and other parts which need extra power are connected to the power source. You also need to connect the fans of the case, as well as the buttons to the main board with their own wires. You need to remember to put special heat transfer paste between the processor and the cooler, so the heat transfers away from the processor. You should be careful in all installments but particularly when installing the cooler.
Close the side, install the plug, attach the mouse, keyboard and screen and test start. If the computer starts and shows a picture without any issues, then the next step is to install the operating system. This stages varies a lot depending on the system, so it's worth looking into it. However, here are few bullet points. These days, it's possible to get the installation software of for example Windows 10 on thumb drive, so you wont necessarily need a dvd drive or such, it's also quicker that way. You may need to change the Bios settings in order to start the set up, so that the computer knows where to start the program from. You must create a section for the new operating system to the new hard drive during the installation stage. When doing this you must be very attentive, cause if the computer gets an old disc with files on it and then you create the section on there, you might accidently send them to bitheaven. When the installation is ready and the operating system starts up, the computer is technically ready to use. Sure You have to install many updates, drivers and programs but they are a whole different story. Don't forget the safety programs from the internet!
But that's about it. There's quite a lot of text though I explained everything quite briefly, everything still sounds complex but doing and experience is the best teacher. Personally, I've worked with computers for over 20 years and still the technology improves and there's always something to learn.
If you're wondering about a specific IT related issue, then the computer wizards of our co-operative are glad to answer any questions. You'll find all our services from our web page and you can always reach us by phone or email.
- Jori Honkanen, Team Kukouri Co-op.
