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My Recommendation for Purchasing a Computer

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Top 10 things to consider when buying computer.
When entering into the world of computers it can get very easy to get confused and loose sight of your goals and sometimes your budget. Here's the top 10 things to consider;
1. Most importantly, know what you want to use it for and set aside a realistic budget.
Your budget
The first thing that most of us are constrained to is budget so this is the first thing you should consider. We always want the best but we need to be grounded on what we can afford. So Get a budget and stick to it.

Laptop or Desktop?
The next thing you should be looking at is your requirements. Do you need a laptop or desktop? What is the machine going to be used for? Once you have done this go back to number one and see if these are compatible often they are not first time round. You either need to adjust your budget or adjust your goals to make them more compatible with each other.

Now its time to look at the computer.
There are many things to consider when actually buying the computer, here I will list the most important so you can choose wisely.

2. The Processor
This is the most important factor when choosing a computer nowadays and there are many factors in processor choice the main thing is that in my opinion Intel are at the moment making the best chips and their core 2 duo range is the best so go for one in this family and you will be ok.

3. RAM (Computer Memory)
Essentially, the more rams you have, the more browsers and applications you can open. 4Gb is the most basic nowadays. 8GB is the sweet spot for most people. If you are a gamer, photo or video editor, or planning to do CAD/CAM work, you need at least 16GB of Ram. Make sure you get windows vista 64bit as your operating system.

6. Hard Drive
This is the next piece you should tackle. Computers today usually come with 250GB and 750GB of space in the hard drive. As more people are storing their information online on cloud storage, you may want to rethink of buying a huge hard drive space.

Google provides the 1st 15GB of free & monthly fee of $1.99 for 100GB and $9.99 for 1 terabyte.

Mega provides free 50GB

pCloud provides free 10GB

MediaFire provides 10GB

Dropbox provides 2GB

Where to get free cloud storage;

7. Graphics
Now all computers come with some form of graphics built in. But my recommendation is to go with something a little better possibly from NVIDIA or AMD. They make your computer resolution better. AMD cards are good for mining while NVidia is good for Adobe programs.

8. Computer Software
Most computers comes with microsoft software. The latest is Windows 10.

9. Anti-Virus Software
The last thing to do with the actual computer is a good virus and spy ware package. Don't be under any illusion this is possibly the most important part of protecting your computer. It will get attacked at some point be prepared when it does.

10. Your Computer Lifeline, Internet
Finally the internet, get a good internet provider broadband at least. No computer is complete without a good internet.

I hope this list is helpful in helping you make vital decisions when buying your new computer.

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Top Ten Things to Consider When Buying a Computer

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Top 10 things to consider when buying computer. When entering into the world of computers it can get very easy to get confused and loose sight of your goals and sometimes your budget. Here's the top 10 things to consider; 1. Most importantly, know what you want to use it for and set aside a realistic budget.

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Is $2,000 for a computer too much?

Plan on spending between %24500 and %241000 for a new laptop

Disable third-party cookies on smartphone%2C tablet to stop ad tracking

iTunes alternatives include Ecoute%2C Vox

Q. My kid wants a new computer, but the one he wants is $2,000! Is that too much to pay?
Slow Internet or slow Wi-Fi?
A. It all depends on what the new computer will be used for. For basic computing - Web surfing, listening to music, watching videos and casual gaming - a $500 to $700 computer is more than fine. You can get solid gaming rigs for $800 to $1,200 that will handle most new and upcoming games. A high-end custom gaming rig or a video-editing workstation will typically cost $2,000 or more. Unless he's a championship gamer or editing feature-length HD movies, $500 to $1,000 is a reasonable amount to spend, depending, of course, on your family budget. Remind him that today's $800 computer cost $2,000 18 months ago. What's really important: A fairly new processor and at least 8 gigabytes of RAM. That will give you two or three years of reliable performance.

Q. My Internet speed seems to be dragging. Is it my connection or my Wi-Fi?
How to get a free credit report
A. Start by visiting Speedtest.net and checking your Internet speed while using Wi-Fi. Then plug your computer directly into your broadband router or modem and run it again. Compare those numbers to the speed you're paying for from your Internet provider and the speeds promised by the type of modem you have. Next, if you have a cable modem, call up your cable company and make sure you have the latest model. (If you're paying a monthly rental for it, they should give you an upgrade.) Finally, your wireless modem might be an old model as well. A new modem is often a worthwhile investment. If you're getting a new computer soon, the newest 802.11ac modem standard will give you a terrific speed boost.

Q. I keep seeing ads online for free credit reports. I thought you had to pay for those. Are the ads scams?
Block tracking cookies on your mobile gadgets
A. Well, those ads often are scams, but you really can get your credit report for free. The government mandates you get one free report a year from each of the three major credit-reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. They got together to make the site AnnualCreditReport.com for just this purpose. I recommend requesting a report from one company every four months so you're covered the entire year. And just as a reminder: If at any point you're asked to pay or enter credit card information, you're in the wrong place.

Q. How do I stop companies from tracking my browsing on my smartphone?
Alternatives to iTunes
A. It's sad, but it's true: Advertisers track everything you do online. But the good news is that you can stop them by disabling third-party cookies on your smartphone or tablet. On Android, launch your browser and then select Menu>>Settings. Here, you can uncheck the option to accept cookies. For iPhones and iPads, go to Settings>>Safari to clear your history, clear cookies and turn on the Do Not Track option.

Q. I've had it with iTunes. The latest version is just too big and slow. Is there a better program for just playing music that will work with my iTunes library and on a Mac?
Kim Komando hosts the nation's largest talk radio show about consumer electronics, computers and the Internet. To get the podcast, watch the show or find the station nearest you, visit www.komando.com. E-mail her at techcomments@usatoday.com.
A. As a matter of fact there are. DoubleTwist looks like iTunes, works with your iTunes library and can sync with Android gadgets. If you're after a fast, customizable music player with an iTunes feel, look at Ecoute. Want something completely different? Vox is sleek, stylish and simple. Use other music services besides iTunes? Tomahawk brings everything seamlessly into one program. The best part is these services are all free, so you can try them and see which one works for you.

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Q&A: how much is too much to pay for a computer?

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Is $2,000 for a computer too much? Plan on spending between %24500 and %241000 for a new laptop Disable third-party cookies on smartphone%2C tablet to stop ad tracking iTunes alternatives include Ecoute%2C Vox Q. My kid wants a new computer, but the one he wants is $2,000! Is that too much to pay?

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Henkosino Technology Co., Ltd. specializes in the distribution of FPGA programmable logic chips. Our products are world-widely used in communication, security monitoring, medical equipment, intelligent transportation, information security, military, aerospace and etc. We have premium supply channels . We have full stocks of XILINX, ALTERA and some stock for some hot brands such as ADI,TI,ON,ST,NXP...

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Quality Integrated Circuits ICs, Chip Resistor factory, Integrated Circuits ICs manufacturer, Chip Resistor from China

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Henkosino Technology Co., Ltd. specializes in the distribution of FPGA programmable logic chips. Our products are world-widely used in communication, security monitoring, medical equipment, intelligent transportation, information security, military, aerospace and etc. We have premium supply channels . We have full stocks of XILINX, ALTERA and some stock for some hot brands such as ADI,TI,ON,ST,NXP...

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WE'RE HERE TO HELP

Let J2 solve your supply chain needs

If it is a hard-to-find component or the need for a supply chain consolidation, we deliver!

We would love to help you find that particular electronic component you are looking for. J2 Sourcing has more than 1 Billion electronic parts in stock that consist of over 80.000 different part numbers. With our well-established network of suppliers and also the items that we have in our stock, we will find the component you need and overcome all supply chain challenges!

Let Us Find What You Are Looking For!

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
Read more here and stay tuned!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you, for some reason, can't find what you're looking for, or have any other question, feel free to contact us.

Can J2 Sourcing ship to my location?

Our customers are in all time zones, and we ship globally. Thanks to our well-established relationships with all major carriers, we can offer fast a cheap shipment, anywhere in the world. In addition, we have a warehouse in Sweden, which holds all our inventory.

Is J2 Sourcing ISO certified?

Yes, we are! We are certified for ISO 9001 and 14001 - quality in our processes is important for us, and so is the environment!

Does J2 Sourcing have any testing facility and how can we be sure to receive genuine parts?

To maintain a high level of integrity and trust in all business transactions, extensive testing is performed by third-party test facilities in the US, China, and Malaysia. All our partners are certified by strict standards within the military, aerospace, and medical industries.

Does J2 Sourcing have documented quality and inspection procedures?

All items that enter and leave our hubs are checked and controlled in accordance with PRO-STD-001 & IDEA-STD-1010-B inspection procedures. Our Quality Control staff are regularly taking part in activities to develop and fine-tune their skills, as well as keeping their certifications up to date with external education programs.

Can I join the J2 Sourcing crew?

Of course! We are always open for new candidates so please send over your info to hr@j2sourcing.com and we will see if there is a spot open for you now, or if you might be eligible for something later! Also, please check all our open positions [careers]

Can J2 Sourcing ship to my location?

Is J2 Sourcing ISO certified?

Does J2 Sourcing have any testing facility and how can we be sure to receive genuine parts?

Does J2 Sourcing have documented quality and inspection procedures?

Can I join the J2 Sourcing crew?

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If it is a hard-to-find component or the need for a supply chain consolidation, we deliver! We would love to help you find that particular electronic component you are looking for. J2 Sourcing has more than 1 Billion electronic parts in stock that consist of over 80.000 different part numbers.

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IT resellers have an opportunity to capitalize when partnering with Lenovo. There are many ways for people to start a business today, but there are a lot of risks in doing so, including the unknown. That is why many companies begin as resellers. The IT reseller business model allows for businesses to adopt products to sell. There is no need to worry about product development. There are no concerns about having to manage the manufacturing of products. This is all designed to be handled by others. IT resellers benefit from the profits instead of the hassle.

What Is an IT Reseller?

IT resellers are typically people or businesses that purchase products from a manufacturer directly. They may buy from a wholesaler or another vendor as well. They typically make these purchases at a much lower cost than what is charged to the end user or customer. The reseller then resells the product at a higher cost to the end user. This is often done online through ecommerce websites, though it can also occur in traditional direct to consumer channels offline.

Many times, companies do not have to carry inventory with these products. That means that the company will ship goods to the end customer themselves. The business, then, just acts as a type of middleman, managing the transaction and order processing without having to juggle warehouses or other costs. This is why so many companies want to become an IT reseller - it is affordable, easy to start up, has fewer hassles, and doesn't involve a lot of inventory storage.

What Is the Difference Between a Reseller and a Distributor?

For those who wish to become an IT reseller, one key question they often have is the difference between being an IT reseller and being a distributor. There is a difference, though it is sometimes subtle. A distributor is likely to have a closer relationship with the manufacturer than the term reseller entails. In some situations, distributors are a part of, partially owned by, or otherwise a subsidiary of the manufacturer in some way.

Those who become computer resellers, by contrast, are less likely to have a working relationship with the manufacturer at the same level. Rather, they are not likely to carry all the computer components and parts for these computers, for example. In addition, a computer reseller is less likely to have a staff that knows as much about the intricate details of a product.

In some situations, a distributor will purchase product directly from the manufacturer. Then, they may sell it to the reseller. That does not always happen, but in some situations, it works well. A business generally wants to become an IT reseller in the most profitable manner possible. Finding the best deal, whether from the manufacturer or a distributor, is often best.

Things to Consider When Starting an IT Business

For those who wish to learn how to become an IT reseller, the process does not have to be complex. There are a number of different avenues to consider. As with all business opportunities, the more information you have, the better the decisions you can make for yourself and your business.
Choose an offering and niche
The first step to learning how to become an IT reseller is to learn about the actual options available to you. You will find that a computer reseller program, for example, could be an option. However, some will narrow down to a very specific niche, such as becoming computer hardware resellers. The key here is to have a very specific niche you want to support. It is helpful to do some research here to gather as much information about that niche as possible. How much competition is there? Is this a niche that is growing in demand or fading?

It is important to find the right reselling fit for your needs. Some things to keep in mind include:

*You don't have to be an expert to sell the product. However, when it comes to a computer hardware program, you need to have a basic understanding of what the niche is, how the product works, and what motivates buyers to purchase.

*Understand the market landscape for that product. That includes the current level of demand, the competition that's out there, and the price points for the product. You can do this by looking at various websites and comparing features.

*Consider products that help to supplement your current business. For example, you may want to become computer hardware resellers if you are a computer repair company right now. The program easily fits within your business model.

This is typically the biggest step you will take in this process. Be sure it's the best one for your needs.
Locate a trusted manufacturer or provider
Along with that first step is the need to find the best manufacturer or provider to work with for your IT reseller business. This requires some research not just on available programs but also on the company's offer to you and the structure of the program. Choosing a trusted manufacturer is important because:

*It helps you ensure your business is built on a solid product, one that you feel confident to stand behind.

*You know you are working with a fair company offering a competitive program.

*You can learn how to become an IT reseller through their program, as the best companies make the entire process easy for you to set up and manage from start to finish.

If you hope to be a computer reseller, Lenovo provides you with all of the tools and resources you need to get off the ground with success. This is where you typically want to get started - with a company offering well-respected product, outstanding customer service, and lots of support for their computer reseller program members.

As you compare manufacturers and providers, be sure to focus on the reseller agreement. You want to be sure you understand your rights and obligations before you enter into this type of agreement.

Register your business

Once you find a manufacturer you want to work with, the next step is to apply to work with them. Some require an application process, while others are more of a registration process.

In most cases, the manufacturer needs to know as much about you as possible. This includes your business profile - the age of your company, and the type of work you do. The company's size, including in revenue as well as the number of employees you have, can also play a role here.

In addition to this, you may need to provide information about your service coverage area, the methods and channels you use to sell, and your web presence. Do you have an ecommerce setup? Do you have online merchant tools already in place?

Apply with as much information as you can about your business. This helps to ensure that you are going to be able to build a strong business with the company based on their expectations and your own.

Consider your "value-add" offering

Consider your value added offering. A value added reseller, sometimes called a VAR, is a professional company that offers not just the product the customer is buying but also something else. That is, you do more than just offer the product you are selling. This helps to increase your ability to sell and builds a profit. It also helps the company to know you are knowledgeable about the product.

For example, if you enter into a computer reseller program, you may provide a service to commercial establishments where you install and set up their systems for them. Your added service is not just selling the system but handling the setup. If you enter into a computer hardware resellers program, you may provide the additional service of installing the hardware components that the customer buys from you.

Take some time to determine what this will be for you. Look for a program that allows you to become an IT reseller within an area that interests you.

Reseller storefront and website development

As a reseller, you will need to establish a storefront and invest in website development to allow your business to thrive online. Often, the company can help you to establish this, but if not, you will need to invest in it within any parameters the manufacturer has (such as with branding information or warranty data).

Website development is what creates your ability to sell online. You will need to have a way to manage orders, so that when a customer makes a purchase, the manufacturer can set up delivery directly to that customer, reducing your need to have inventory or to manage the order processing itself.

Ready to Get Started? Lenovo Can Help You

Purchasing products at wholesale prices and then reselling them directly to consumers is a business model that is a low-risk way to enter into owning and operating a product-based business. You don't have to invest in product development or upfront inventory, and Lenovo as your supplier offers financing and additional benefits to get the most out of your IT reseller business.

*Lenovo.com catalog may not include Lenovo products available through other distributors including, but not limited to, ThinkPad V Series and Chromebook.

***Rewards cannot be earned or redeemed on Lenovo Data Center products, Lenovo Managed services, Deployment services, or Software Subscriptions.

****Military & Federal Bid Disclaimer: Lenovo.com does not provide support for partners bidding on Military or Federal contracts. Please visit https://techtoday.lenovo.com/us/en/government to request a follow up from the Lenovo Federal Government team.

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Computer Supplier for Computer Resellers

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IT resellers have an opportunity to capitalize when partnering with Lenovo. There are many ways for people to start a business today, but there are a lot of risks in doing so, including the unknown. That is why many companies begin as resellers. The IT reseller business model allows for businesses to adopt products to sell.

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Mac runs your favorite apps.

From Microsoft 365 to Adobe Creative Cloud and Zoom, the Mac App Store has thousands of apps that let you work, learn, play, create, and collaborate. Every Mac also comes with Pages, Numbers, and Keynote - productivity software made for macOS. Web apps like Google Docs work great on Safari, too.

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Mac runs your favorite apps. From Microsoft 365 to Adobe Creative Cloud and Zoom, the Mac App Store has thousands of apps that let you work, learn, play, create, and collaborate. Every Mac also comes with Pages, Numbers, and Keynote - productivity software made for macOS.

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Learning how to build a PC from scratch is easier than you might think. The process mostly involves screwing in the right screws and connecting the right cables, so as long as you're careful with your components and take the proper safety precautions, even beginners can make a PC that rivals the best desktop computers.

Although there are a lot of steps in building a computer, the process isn't too difficult. We'll walk you through the process step by step so you can learn to build computers in the future and finally put to rest the idea that it's hard to build a PC.

We're building a gaming desktop here, but the process is the same regardless of what type of PC you want to build. If you're gunning to build a gaming desktop like us, make sure you have one of the best graphics cards to install in your system if you want the most impressive performance.

What you need to build a PC

This is a guide on how to build a computer, but you can't do that until you have all the parts a computer needs. If you haven't selected and purchased all the required hardware, make sure you do that first. Also, make sure that it's all compatible and that it will fit inside whatever case you want to build it in.

Here are the core components to build a PC:

Case

CPU

CPU cooler

Motherboard

RAM

Solid state drive (SSD) and/or a hard drive.

Power supply

Graphics card

Multiple PC components need to be compatible with each other, which can create some headaches for newcomers. We recommend using a site like PCPartPicker to select your components, as it automatically checks for compatibility issues.

Before you dig in, ensure there's a clean workspace with plenty of room to open boxes and put parts together, preferably a desk at a comfortable height for working on.

Safety first

There's an invisible risk when building a computer that you rarely have to worry about with an assembled PC: static electricity. The same force that lets you shock your friends when you wear wool socks can also fry components in a heartbeat. Fortunately, static is easy to all but eliminate with a few simple steps.

One solution is to purchase an antistatic wristband. One end wraps around your wrist, and the other clips somewhere on the computer case, keeping the wearer constantly grounded. Touching the case frequently with the PSU plugged in and powered off achieves the same effect.

Make sure you're building your PC in a room with a bare floor if you can - carpets generate a lot of static - and wear rubber-soled shoes rather than socks. Many components ship in antistatic bags, so leave them bagged until just before installation.

Opening the case

Preparing the case is the easy part. Instructions for the specific case you purchased should introduce you to its basic layout, as well as list special instructions regarding component installation.

Lay down the case in your work area and remove the side panel. For most PC cases, this means the left-side panel when viewed from the front. This panel provides access to the case interior.

Also, remove anything that's dangling inside the case. If it's attached, push it aside. Many cases have permanent internal wiring that becomes problematic later on.

How to install the power supply

The first component to make its way into the case should be the power supply (PSU). It is typically located at the rear of the case, usually at the bottom, but in older chassis, it can be at the top. Consult your case's manual if you have trouble finding the proper location.

Step 1: Most cases are designed for the PSU to be installed with the fan facing down, letting it pull cool air from outside the case, but check your manual if you're unsure. You may need to remove a PSU mounting plate depending on your case, but most will require you to push the PSU into the rear of the case, from the inside.

Step 2: Attach it to your case using appropriate screws or thumb screws.

Step 3: If your power supply is a modular PSU, plug in the power cables that you need for your various components. If you're not sure, though, don't worry, you can plug them in later as and when needed. If your PSU is not modular, you'll have all the cables already installed.

How to install the processor

Although you don't have to, it's a good idea to install the processor before you put the motherboard in the case, as access is far easier.

Step 1: Carefully remove the motherboard from its antistatic bag and set it on a hard, flat, nonmetal surface such as a wooden desk or the top of the motherboard box itself.

The process isn't designed to be difficult, and as long as you follow the instructions clearly and keep an eye out to ensure the chip is fully seated before you clamp it in place, you'll be fine. However, there are some subtle differences in the process depending on who made your CPU, and processors are delicate, so be careful.

Step 2: Locate the square CPU socket. If the motherboard is new, it'll have a plastic cover on it. Unhook the metal retention lever and lift it up to free the plastic cover, and remove it.

Step 3: To install the CPU, you need to line it up correctly. On most Intel CPUs, you'll have notches on the side that allow you to only place the CPU in one orientation. On the latest Intel CPUs, you get a little golden triangle in one corner to help you align it properly. The same is true of all modern AMD processors.

Pick the processor up by its sides, taking care not to touch the underside, and align it correctly using whatever aids you're given. Then gently place it into the CPU socket. Double-check it's in the right place, by giving the CPU a little nudge from side to side. If in place, it'll move a tiny amount. If it isn't in the right orientation, it'll slide out of place. In that case, remove the CPU and check alignment before reinstalling.

Step 4: Once you're happy that the CPU is correctly installed, press the retaining arm down firmly but gently until the CPU is locked in place. This can take quite a bit of pressure, but it shouldn't be hard. If in doubt, check again that the CPU was seated correctly before locking it down.

How to install RAM

System memory, or RAM, doesn't require any careful goo placement or wires and is one of the easiest components to install. The only caveat to that is choosing the right slots, as most motherboards come with four, and the best ones to use differ from motherboard to motherboard, so check your manual about which slots to install your new RAM in.

Before starting, ensure that your motherboard is well supported across its entire surface, as it is possible to put too much pressure on the motherboard when installing RAM if you push too hard. This is unlikely, but as with any steps in this guide, take care, and if in doubt, double-check everything before proceeding.

Step 1: When you know which slot to install your RAM in, push the plastic wings at either end of the slot down and outward (some motherboards only have one). Then, to confirm you have your stick turned around the right way, make sure the gap in the RAM stick's metal connectors lines up with the notch in the slot.

Place the stick in the slot sticking straight up. Push down firmly until the RAM clicks into the slot and the plastic wings click back in and clamp the ends of the sticks.

Step 2: Repeat the same process for each stick you have until all of your RAM is installed.

We put together a more detailed guide for how to install RAM if you need additional information.

How to install the motherboard

The motherboard is the most unwieldy component in your system, but since it acts as the foundation for everything else in your case, installing it correctly is of paramount importance.

Step 1: If your motherboard doesn't have an integrated rear panel, take it from the box - it looks like a small cutout of all the different motherboard ports - and install it in the back of your case by orientating it properly and pushing it in. Double-check that it aligns with your motherboard's outputs before plugging it in if you're not sure which way it goes.

Step 2: To install the motherboard, you have to screw it into the insulating standoffs that prevent your components from shorting. Some cases come with these pre-installed, while others need you to install them yourself. They're easy to identify because they look unusual - they're essentially screws that have another screw hole on top instead of the typical screwdriver notch. They're usually gold or black.

If necessary, screw your motherboard's standoffs into the correct holes depending on the size and layout of your motherboard. You can look at your motherboard to figure it out or install them where your manual suggests.

Step 3: Place your motherboard into your case, and push and wiggle it into place so that it slots into your I/O panel and has all of its screw holes lined up with the motherboard standoffs underneath.

To attach your motherboard to the case, screw it in. First, seat the screws and give them a couple of precursory turns. Then, proceed in a star pattern, tightening each screw a little at a time. Don't go wild while tightening, as you might damage the board. You only need enough torque to hold the board in place without it wiggling.

Step 4: Once the motherboard is seated comfortably in the case, there are a few necessary connections.

The motherboard's main power connection is a wide, two-row cable that fits snugly into a similar-looking spot on the board itself. This 20- to 28-pin connector powers both the motherboard and the CPU. However, some boards have one or two more four-pin or eight-pin connectors for the processor, which resides near your CPU, typically in the top corner. If you have them, you'll need to plug them in, too.

Connect the case plugs and buttons to the motherboard. A double-wide row of pins - the location of which will be noted in your manual - handles the buttons for reset and power, and activity LEDs for power and storage. These can be especially fiddly, but you need at least the power button connected in order to turn your PC on.

The USB headers and front-panel audio connectors will be on their own. These connections are around eight by two pins, and they're enclosed in a larger plastic housing. This header has a notch on one side that should clearly indicate which direction it plugs in.

How to install the CPU cooler

Installing a CPU cooler differs depending on the cooler you're using, so for specific instructions, please refer to the manufacturer's manual or support site. Here are some simple instructions that apply to almost every cooler.

Note: In the below images, we're installing an all-in-one (AIO) water cooler, but the tips apply to most air coolers as well.

Step 1: Every cooler needs thermal paste. You don't have to use the best thermal paste, but make sure you use some. It typically looks like a silver paste and comes either pre-applied to the cooler or in a short syringe tube.

If you're reapplying heat paste, be sure to remove the original heat paste with a lint-free cloth and a little isopropyl alcohol.

When your CPU is ready, Apply a pea-sized amount to your CPU in the center.

Step 2: If your CPU cooler requires it, remove your case's other side panel and attach the custom backplate design. You may need to remove the stock backplate from the motherboard first.

Step 3: Place the CPU cooler on top of the processor, and press down gently. Line up any retaining brackets or bolts with the CPU cooler mounting holes on the motherboard.

Install the retaining screws/brackets to secure the cooler in place. If you have to tighten several screws, be sure to do them a couple of turns at a time in a cross pattern so that you don't put too much pressure on one portion of the CPU. Make sure that they are tight enough that the CPU cannot wiggle around, but don't overtighten.

Step 4: If your cooler has a separate fan, attach it now, and plug its three-pin or four-pin connector into the CPU cooler port on the motherboard. It should be located near the CPU cooler. If it has multiple fans, either plug the additional ones into extra motherboard headers or use a fan splitter to power both from the CPU fan port.

If you're installing an AIO watercooler, mount the radiator at an appropriate point in the case (at the front or rear air intakes/exhaust are common) and attach the fan's header to the correct port. You may also need to attach the pump header, which some motherboards have specific ports for.

How to install the graphics card

Not every system needs a dedicated graphics card (discrete GPU), but if you're building a gaming PC, it's a necessity.

Intel processors mostly come with integrated graphics, so if you're not gaming, you don't need a separate graphics card. Look out for processors with an "F" at the end, though - they don't include integrated graphics.

Step 1: Modern graphics cards use a PCI-Express (PCIe) x16 slot. It's a long, thin connector located on the rear of the motherboard, below the processor. For the vast majority of motherboards, you'll want to use the top PCIe x16 slot.

To seat the card in that slot, you'll need to remove one, two, or, in some cases, three rectangular backplates from your case. It's one of many thin metal brackets lined down the back of the case to keep it sealed up. Do this by removing the screw(s) that secures the backplate(s) to the chassis. Once removed, the plate should slide (or fall) out freely.

Keep the screw, as you'll need it in a moment.

Step 2: Grab your graphics card and, making sure the ports are aligned to the rear of the case and the PCIExpress connector is facing down, carefully slot it into the motherboard. You should hear a click when the motherboard locks it into place, but that's not always the case on every motherboard.

You don't need excessive force, so if you encounter a great deal of resistance, take another look at the backplate and PCIe slot to make sure both are clear and the motherboard is properly aligned. Also take note if there is a pushpin that locks the card in like your memory slots, as some motherboards use it as a safety measure.

Step 3: Use the screws pulled from the metal brackets to fasten the back of the card into the same spot in the case. Again, they don't need to be extremely tight - just enough to hold the card firmly in place.

Step 4: Most graphics cards need more power than the PCIe slot provides. If your card needs extra juice, you'll see one, two, or even three PCIe power connectors on the card's side facing away from the motherboard or, in some cases, on the top of the card. This can be a traditional six- or eight-pin PCIe power connector or a new mini 12- or 16-pin design for new Nvidia GPUs.

Find the appropriate connector on your power supply, sometimes labeled VGA, and slot it in. The connector's design prevents improper installation, so if the connection isn't easy, double-check your alignment to make sure it's correct. If your PSU doesn't have the required native connectors, you may need to use an adapter, which should have come with your graphics card.

If you need additional help, we have a detailed guide on how to install a graphics card that provides additional information.

How to install expansion cards

Graphics cards aren't the only components that use PCIe slots. Other add-in cards include wireless networking, sound, video capture, and even storage. Their installation is no different than adding a discrete GPU.

There are a few different types of PCIe slots. Many expansion cards use the "PCIe 4x" slot, which is much shorter than the full PCIe slot used by video cards. A quick check of your motherboard's connectivity, and the size of the connector on your card, will make it obvious which slot is appropriate. If in doubt, refer to the expansion card's manual.

Step 1: Remove the metal bracket at the back of the case that corresponds with the PCIe or other expansion slot playing host to your add-in card. Keep the bracket screw handy so you can use it to secure your new card.

Step 2: Line up the row of contacts on the card with the slot and firmly push down. If the card requires any additional power from SATA or four-pin Molex connectors, find the right cables and plug them into the card.

Step 3: Secure the card in place by screwing it into the back of the case.

How to install hard drives and SSDs

There are three different storage drive sizes you're likely to encounter, and they all mount and connect differently. Generally, hard disk drives (HDD) are the larger 3.5-inch size, while newer solid-state drives (SSD) adopt the smaller 2.5-inch size. There's also the even smaller M.2 format and PCI-Express drive format, which tend to be thin sticks with bare chips measuring around a few inches long.

Step 1: To install a hard drive, find the 3.5-inch drive mounting point(s) in your case. These can be full hard drive cages with multiple mounting points, or it might be just space for a single drive with screw holes right in the case. If in doubt, refer to your manual.

Slot your drive into the appropriate place and screw it or lock it into place using your case's mounting system. When in place, attach the SATA data cable to the drive and the motherboard, and attach the SATA power connector to the drive.

Step 2: To install a SATA SSD, repeat the same steps as the larger hard drive, only changing the mounting point to an appropriate 2.5-inch cage or slot - sometimes these are found behind the motherboard tray. Make sure that it is secured in place, and attach both the SATA power and data cable.

Step 3: To install an M.2 NVMe SSD, locate the appropriate slot on your motherboard. It will be labeled, but it is pretty small, so check your manual if you're unsure.

Remove the retaining screw and slot in the drive at a 45-degree angle. Gently but firmly push down on the drive until it clicks into place, then replace the retaining screw.

Step 4: To install a PCIe SSD, choose an appropriate PCIe slot on your motherboard. The 16x slots will offer the most bandwidth, but that may not be necessary for your particular drive's bandwidth. Consult the drive's manual for confirmation on which is best for your particular motherboard.

Angle the drive with the gold contacts down, then gently push it into the PCIe slot. It should click into place when it is locked in. It shouldn't take much force, so if it gets stuck, check the alignment.

Attach any necessary additional power cables.

Turn the PC on

Step 1: Switch on the power supply and press the Power button on the front. If all is well, it should display the post screen or manufacturer logo on the monitor and then move on to Windows installation or the login screen. If it doesn't, however, don't fret. It's not uncommon for PCs to need to reboot a couple of times on their first startup, and some can even take a couple of minutes to boot the first time while they configure memory and other components.

If you encounter any error messages or beeps, refer to your motherboard's manual to decode the message and figure out what you need to fix.

If you don't get any power at all, turn the power supply off and double-check all of your connections. Make sure the wall socket is turned on, too. For further help, consult our PC Troubleshooting guide.

Step 2: Once the system does boot up, you'll need to install Windows. If you're not sure how, here's a quick guide on how to download Windows and install it.

Step 3: Once you reach Windows, you'll need to install drivers. Windows 10 and 11 already support modern chipsets and automatically download and install the remaining drivers in most cases. Check the Update and security menu in the Settings pane for more information regarding this process.

If that doesn't work, the chipset driver for your motherboard will handle most connectivity and onboard features, though this varies greatly based on motherboard and component manufacturers. You can download the latest version(s) from your motherboard manufacturer's website.

If you have a discrete graphics card, you'll need to download your graphics drivers from either the AMD page for Radeon drivers or the Nvidia page for GeForce drivers.

Don't forget peripherals

It's easy to get wrapped up in the thrill of building a gaming PC and forget that you need peripherals to make it function. If you still need a keyboard, monitor, and mouse to complete your setup, we can point you in the right direction:

With some luck and a lot of attention to detail, you should have a fully operational system. Keep an eye on your system temperatures for a few days to make sure all the coolers are working correctly, and if an error message pops up, take care of it accordingly. After a few weeks, you'll get the hang of your machine and be more confident in what you can push it to do. If something breaks or needs an upgrade, you're fully equipped to deal with it.

Editors' Recommendations

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How to build a PC from scratch: a beginner's guide | Digital Trends

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Learning how to build a PC from scratch is easier than you might think. The process mostly involves screwing in the right screws and connecting the right cables, so as long as you're careful with your components and take the proper safety precautions, even beginners can make a PC that rivals the best desktop computers.

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https://www.techradar.com/how-to/how-to-build-a-pc

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It might be hard sourcing PC components right now, but learning how to build a PC is still a fulfilling task, regardless of what the best graphics cards are going for right now. The process actually remains the same - you need to research and choose the components that will make up the you're trying to put together. After all, you want a PC that you can show off with pride.

If you've never built a PC before, it can be a scary undertaking, especially considering that it is a good amount of work. Though a lot of people act like it's an easy task building a , you might find it a discouraging process your first time around. And, that's okay.

And, before you get too down about any issues you're facing, we're here to help. We've built quite a few PCs and have used our expertise to put together this step-by-step guide so you can build your PC in no time. We'll make it as painless as possible and take you from beginning to end.

(Image credit: DisobeyArt / Shutterstock)

What kind of PC do you need?

These days, basically everyone needs a decent PC to get through life, but they come in so many shapes and sizes that it's important to know what you're trying to build before you even get started.

For instance, if you're just going to be using your PC to do daily office work - like web browsing or writing up documents - you don't need to drop thousands of dollars on a fancy gaming rig. Building a PC with something like the AMD Ryzen 5 5600G will get you a quick and responsive PC that will last you years, with enough graphics horsepower to get you through all tasks that most people experience on a day-to-day basis.

However, there are plenty of people that need something with a bit more oomph. Computers are legitimately more powerful now than they've ever been, and there's never been more options to build something that will tear through the best PC games like they were so much paper. But, powerful hardware like the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 and the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X come at a high price.

Luckily, if you're on more of a budget, you can get something like an Intel Core i5-11600K and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 (if you can find one in stock at a decent price, that is), and have an incredible 1080p gaming machine. And, that will be able to get some video editing done on the side too.

Tools of the trade

Although a single phillips screwdriver is all you need to construct a PC, you may want a few more things on hand just in case. For example, needle nose pliers or a simple pair of tweezers may come in handy to place screws into tight places or retrieve them.

Zip ties are useful for tidying up all your PC cables and luckily, you most likely won't have to buy them as they often come included with several different types of computer parts. You'll also need a pair of side cutters (or just scissors) to cut those said zip ties.

You can't go wrong with an anti-static wrist strap, either - though you can get away with not having one. Unless you've been running around on carpet all day, or have cats, you likely aren't holding enough static charge to damage the electronics. Just do yourself a favor and discharge any latent electricity by placing your hand on metal, like your PC case or power supply.

As for your workspace, you're going to want to clear off a good bit of table space, as you'll likely be flipping your PC on its side, feet, back and any which way to install everything.

And, before we forget, it's a good idea to get a monitor, keyboard and mouse set up before you start building, so you have something to plug it into when the building is done. You should also have a power socket and internet connection available.

It's hard to find a modern build with an optical drive these days, so put the Windows 10 installer onto a USB stick ( we'll show you how). If you can't find a handy thumb drive and a laptop, we would cannibalize an older rig for a CD drive, or even just buy one - you can find them online for less than 10 bucks these days.

It's time, to build. Finally.

After spending weeks coming up with a list of PC components, waiting anxiously for them to go on sale, and getting them delivered to your door, it's time. You've got a phillips head screwdriver in hand, and you're ready to go.

Now for the purposes of our PC building guide, we've used these following parts as an example of how to build a complete computer. These components are also exactly what you need to construct an modest - if a little last generation - gaming PC.

Here are some PC component deals to get your PC build started

Step by step
1. Strip down
First thing you'll want to do is strip the case down as far as you can go. Remove every panel that you can, and store them in a safe place (inside the case box is the best bet). We recommend using a bowl (or a magnetic parts tray if you want to be fancy) to hold your screws throughout your PC building process.
2. Fan-tastic
If you've purchased some replacement or extra cooling fans, now is the time to install them where you need them. Try to keep your cooling setup balanced, so there's as much air being drawn in, as is being blown out. In case you're not sure which way the wind will go, the plastic fan guards usually denotes where the air will come through.

Typically you want two fans in the front drawing air in and at least one in the rear blowing air out. You could also screw one or two more optional fans into the roof of the PC case for additional exhaust, if your PC case has mounting points for them.
3. Mobo Installation
Before we get to install the motherboard, you'll want to check on a few things about your PC case. Check for pre-installed motherboard standoffs, ensure the number and arrangement of them conforms to the holes found on your motherboard.

Secondly, see if your PC case has a large CPU cutout or window cut into the back of the motherboard frame. If it doesn't you may want to install any CPU cooler backplates and M.2 solid-state drives at this juncture.

Now that's done, first find your motherboard's rear I/O shield, and push it into the rectangular slot in the back of your PC case. Make sure it's right side up by matching the pattern of cutouts to the arrangement of ports on the back of your motherboard.

Next, lay your motherboard down inside the chassis - carefully lining up its rear ports with the corresponding holes in the I/O shield you just installed - on top of the standoffs installed in your chassis.

Then it's a simply case of securing the motherboard down with the screws that came with your chassis. Make sure you use the right ones here, as you don't want to thread the standoffs, in case you need to remove it at a later date.
4. CPU Installation
Next up, socket your CPU into the motherboard. Here's where things are a little different depending on which family and/or brand you decided to go with.

For Intel mainstream CPUs, slide the spring loaded retention arm out and up, then lift the bracket up leaving the plastic cover in place. Then, gently place your CPU inside the socket, matching the golden triangle located on the bottom left corner of the processor, with the triangle on the socket bracket.

For the next step, you should slide the securing bracket back into its original position so it locks in place underneath the screw, and secure the retention arm back down. During this process the protective plastic cover should pop off, so don't freak out if it comes flying at you. Be sure to stow the cover away in a safe place as it'll protect the motherboard's sensitive pins if you decide to remove the processor from the motherboard.

If you're installing an AMD CPU, fortunately installation is much less daunting. There's no bracket here, simply lift the retention arm in its raised position.

You should then take your processor and match the golden triangle on the corner of the Ryzen processor with the triangle on the socket. Once the pins on the bottom of the processor lineup with the holes on the socket, drop it into place. Give it a little nudge to make sure it's secure, then lower the retention arm back down and lock it into place.

Processor installation done, whew.
5. Memory Matters
Next on the agenda is installing computer memory. Push down the latches at either ends of the DDR4 slots on your motherboard. Then line up the notch on the bottom of the memory with the notch in the slot. After that, you can install the memory by carefully pushing down both sides of the memory into the slot. You should hear a clicking sound as the memory secures into place and the latches click back up.

Make sure you use the farthest and second closest slot from the CPU if you're only using two memory sticks. Complete that and you'll be good to go.
6. Cooler mounting
Here's the last complicate piece in the PC building process, CPU coolers.

Most third-party coolers require installing a backplate, which you may or may not have already done from step three of our PC building guide. Each individual cooler will have its own set of instructions your should follow, but the gist of most installations requires affixing a backplate and threading four pins though back of your motherboard.

From there you'll want to thermal paste if your CPU cooler didn't come with any pre-applied already. Users will want to squeeze out a small blob, around the size of half a pea, onto the middle of the CPU. This will spread out once your cooler is mounted, and provide a sufficient amount of thermal interface material to successfully transfer heat from the processor die to the cooler of your choosing.

For air coolers, you'll want to install most models with the fans unattached. Carefully orient the heatsink onto the pins or threads of the mounting plate and secure in place with any provided thumb screws or regular screws. After that it's simply a case of reattaching the fan to the tower, and plugging the 4-pin PWM fan header into the CPU Fan slot on the motherboard.

Liquid-coolers follow basically the same process, but require more upfront work. You'll probably have to attach fans onto the radiator and installing it into your PC case in advance. Depending on which liquid-cooler you're using, you may also need to plug in a second four-pin cable into a dedicated AIO cooler or optional cooler header on your motherboard.

This is also a good opportunity to plug in the rest of your system fans into any available slots on the board. Or alternatively, if your PC case has an integrated fan controller at the back of the chassis to route all your fans into, then directly onto the motherboard. It'll also need to connect to the motherboard via USB header.
7. Storage installation
Once memory is in, it's time to focus on some non-volatile memory storage, hard drives and solid-state drives. Our NZXT H400i happens to have a small SSD bracket on the front. Installing 2.5-inch drives into these caddies is a cinch, as you can simply slide it into place with the option of fully securing it with four screws.

Most modern PC cases comes with SSD bays of some sort. But if you're case doesn't, the 3.5-inch drive caddies typically reserved for hard drives should have compatible mounting points. No matter what type of storage drive you're installing, ensure the connection ports are facing towards a cable cut-out inside your chassis as it will make routing cables easier.
8. PSU positioning
Now you've got your motherboard, CPU and memory installed you're going to want to install your power supply next. If you've got a modular PSU, figure out what cables you need ahead of time, and plug them into your power supply first.

If your PC case comes with a PSU bracket, remove it ahead of time and attach it to the back of the unit. Next up thread the cables through the PSU slot in the back of the case first, and then slide the PSU into place, securing the bracket back onto the chassis.

Otherwise, on older cases you'll have to slip in the power supply in through the inside of the chassis and push it firmly against the inside wall as you attach it with four screws.

Depending on the design of your case, you'll want to orient the fan towards ventilation areas built into it. For most cases we suggest facing the fan downwards or to the side away from the interior of your PC. This way, your PSU can draw in fresh air and exhaust heat through the back.
9. All the buttons
To get your front I/O power buttons working properly, you need to plug in the correct cables. Fortunately, on our NZXT H400i, this is a single block that plugs directly onto the front I/O headers on the motherboard, make sure you orient it the correct way, then push it into place on the pins.

For everyone else, take the individual pins, and, using the motherboard installation handbook, identify which pins and cables need connecting. Try to do this part gently do, so as to not to bend the pins. It's important to note that any LED lights (HDD and Power), need to be oriented correctly, with the + and - cables installed into the + and - pins on the board.

It's also a good time to plug in your USB 3.0 header, USB 2.0 header, and audio passthrough. Audio is located on the bottom left of most motherboards. It will be labelled, and the pin outs will be different to the USB 2.0 headers. Install your USB 3.0 cables (denoted with a blue-colored end) into any available slots on the board, making sure to lineup the pins with the holes in the USB 3.0 cables.
10. Cable conundruming
Now you can plug in the rest of your power cables.

Identify your 8-pin EPS cable, and slide it up the back of the chassis, through the cable grommet and plug it into the 8 pin power slot at the top of the motherboard. Then, find the bulkier 24-pin cable, slide that through any cable routing recesses on the chassis and plug it into the corresponding 24-pin ATX power port on the motherboard.

Next up, take your SATA power and connect it to any storage drives. If you happen to have a something mounted onto the front of the case, run this SATA power cable through the PSU shroud, appropriate grommets or holes, and into your front mounted 2.5-inch drive. This is a good opportunity to plug in the SATA Data cables between any storage drives and the motherboard as well.

Lastly, you'll want to thread your PCIe power cable through the cutout in the PSU cover or any side grommets/holes, so that it's ready for when you install your GPU.
11. Graphically sound
Finally we have the last piece of the puzzle to slot into place.

First take a look at your motherboard and locate the PCIe slot closest to your processor. From there locate the two PCIe slots next to where you'll want to install your GPU and remove them. In most PC cases, that'll involve undoing two screws on the PCIe slot covers and removing them.

Take your graphics card out of the anti-static bag and line it up with the slots we just opened up. The rear I/O on the GPU should be facing out the back of the chassis. Once the gold contacts on your GPU make are touching the PCIe slot, gently push it into place until you hear a click. Then use the same screws we removed from the PCIe slot cover to secure the GPU into place.

Then it's simply a case of plugging your PCIe power that you routed in with our last step - and we have a fully built PC (mostly).
12. Into BIOS
Now the system's built, don't reattach all your panels just yet. First you'll want to make sure it actually turns on and runs properly.

Take your temporarily built tower over to your pre-setup computer space and plug it into power, a screen, keyboard and mouse too. Power it on, and mash the delete key to get into the BIOS screen. Check your CPU temp, make sure that's operating somewhere around 30-40 degrees C, and ensure that your boot drive is registering correctly.

If everything is showing up, now is also a good time to enable the XMP for Intel or DOCP for AMD to make sure your memory is operating at the correct frequency. Then hit F10, save and exit. Then power off.
13. Tidying up
Now that we're sure the machine is working, disconnect it again and bring it back to your workspace. It's worth doing this because you'll want to reattach all those PC case panels and tidy up any loose cables.

That means using cable ties to bunch together cables as much as you can. Most PC cases come to cable cut-outs to use as tie down points. Where they're aren't any, we usually use thicker cables to help push smaller ones flush against the inside of our computer chassis.
14. Installing Windows
Bring the system back to your computer space, where it'll sit forever - or at least until your next upgrade - as we'll want to install the operating system next.

Most modern rigs lack an optical drive to install your OS, so you'll need to create a USB install on another PC. To do this, download the Windows 10 Media Creation Kit and then install Windows 10 onto an USB stick with at least 8GB of space.

Then, once it's finished, simply plug it into your new system. Go back into your BIOS to tell your system to boot from the USB stick first. From there you can go through the prompts to install the operating system onto your new rig. Don't worry about not having a software key during installation, you can activate Windows 10 once you reach desktop.
15. Desktop maintenance
Once you're finally logged on, head on over to the manufacturer's website, find your motherboard, head to service, and download the correct chipset drivers for your system.

is a nifty tool to get all the programs you want fast without having to worry about installing each one individually is. On the Ninite site, you can select which programs you want, download the installer and let it run its magic. After that, go download and install the correct graphics driver for your card and you'll be all set to sit back and enjoy.

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How to build a PC: a step-by-step guide to building the best PC

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It might be hard sourcing PC components right now, but learning how to build a PC is still a fulfilling task, regardless of what the best graphics cards are going for right now. The process actually remains the same - you need to research and choose the components that will make up the you're trying to put together.