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Checklist for Building a New Computer

Written by Cory Bloemendaal

ECPI College of Technology – Virginia Beach

A+ Computer Repair

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As far as a checklist for purchasing any new technology, I can easily come up with a checklist for building a new computer. Since I’m not quite sure whether this should be an actual checklist or in essay form, I’m just going to make a checklist ,because that’s what I’m leaning towards.

These are the things you would need in order to build a new computer (Tower only, assuming you already own a mouse, keyboard, monitor, etc.)

1. CPU, a.k.a. Processor (You will need to remember the socket or type of processor for use with number 2.)
2. Motherboard compatible with your socket or type of processor.
3. RAM (again you will need to ensure your motherboard, step 2, is compatible with the type of ram you pick out. RAM stands for random access memory - many people just call it memory.)
4. HDD or hard disk drive, nowadays you will need to ensure you have a compatible hard drive, because they actually have several types now. For example, most motherboards support IDE, and IDE is a good choice for your first computer.
5. Video card (unless onboard video is an option of your motherboard and you want to save the money. But again you will need to ensure your motherboard supports your video card. There are 3 types: PCI, AGP, and PCI-Express. Be sure to remember that nearly all motherboards will support a standard PCI video card.)
6. Modem/NIC card if you require internet access.
7. CD-Rom/DVD-Rom drive, if you wish to use compact disks in your computer.
8. Floppy Disk Drive, if you wish to use floppy disks in your computer.
9. A case. Unless you currently own one, you will need to purchase a case, also called a tower or just computer. This is where all the parts listed above will be going.

***One important thing to remember is that when touching most of these parts it’s a good idea to keep yourself grounded in order to prevent static shock. Static shock will fry these parts up so fast. And no one wants to lose a part when they first get the CPU***