The first thing to understand is why you need such a system. This determines not only the cost of assembly, but also the nature of the choice of components. The most common computer performing routine tasks can be assembled from entry-level elements. It is even possible to play low-cost games. If you are an avid gamer or demanding on graphics, then this choice is not enough. You need a so-called gaming computer. You will need more RAM (from 16 GB), a processor with at least 4 cores, one or two discrete video cards, and, of course, a powerful power supply that can handle all this. The price of this pleasure can exceed 100 thousand rubles. Is it worth chasing this? Everyone decides for himself. But it is more expedient to opt for a mid-range car.
What you need to assemble a computer
CPU
The "heart" of a computer is the CPU, on the power of which a lot depends - whether an external video card will show its full potential, whether it will be possible to open several resource-intensive applications at once, whether it will be comfortable to watch UltraHD video. Intel processors (i5 or i7) are suitable for these purposes. The clock speed starts at 3 GHz. It should not be surprising that over 10 years this parameter has increased insignificantly. Engineers have achieved a reduction in the technological process, which made it possible to increase the number of transistors on a chip, while reducing power consumption.
It is better to pay attention directly to the seventh generation of Intel processors, as the integrated graphics card allows you to play video content in the H.265 format, which is gaining popularity. The latest generation codec not only supports high frame rates, but also 10-bit color. At the moment, a dual-core processor with four Pentium threads, the cost of which is minimal, can also decode such material. Therefore, such a CPU is suitable for assembling a non-gaming system. For games in FullHd format, you need to look at the i5 line, in 4K - the i7 series.
A landmark event in 2017 was the launch of competitive models from AMD. Ryzen 7 1800X can perform on par with Intel i7-7700k. The most powerful platform for the average user will be based on one of these “stones”. But the cheapest computer on AMD Ryzen cannot be assembled, since these processors do not have an integrated video core.
CPU cooling system
When the “stone” works, heat is generated, which must be removed. Hence a fan is needed. Central processors are supplied with a cooler (BOX version) and without (OEM). If you are a connoisseur of silence in the room, then it is better to choose the second option. Usually, third-party coolers have lower noise levels. For example, the model of the Arctic Cooling company - Alpine 11 PRO - this figure reaches 14 dB, which is 9 dB lower than that of “boxed” fans. Despite this, it is capable of cooling processors up to 95 watts. But it will not work if you are going to increase the CPU clock speed specified in the specification. For a gaming system, you need to opt for a cooling system with copper heat pipes. Copper base improves heat sink performance. For example, the TITAN Hati TTC-NC15TZ / KU cooler is designed for the maximum heat dissipation of the processor already at 160 watts.
Most cooling systems today are made with speed control depending on the CPU temperature. When the system is not loaded, less energy is required. Therefore, the fan should rotate more slowly (from 500 rpm) and generate less noise. This modification has a 4-pin power connector, without control - a 3-pin one.
The cooler has various mounts for AMD and Intel platforms. The most common sockets are LGA 2011 and 1151, and AMD Ryzen processors have started to release boards with AM4. Compatibility is very important, check it in the instructions or on the manufacturer's website.
Motherboard
The foundation that holds the entire system is called the computer's motherboard. The models differ in the socket where the central processor is installed. This was mentioned earlier. In turn, they are classified according to the type of chipset, which is the link between the components. For example, Intel has Z270 or X99, AMD has X370 or 970.
The form factor also matters (ATX, mATX or mini-ITX). It depends on the type of case in which all the elements of the computer are located. An inexpensive machine can be obtained on the basis of mATX. Such a motherboard has a shortened size, while retaining all the necessary functions. The gaming modification does not imply savings, the ATX type is suitable for it. For enthusiasts who need maximum performance and detailed rendering in games, manufacturers have added SLI and CrossFire functions (combining the power of several video adapters). Modern technology allows you to install up to four video cards with one GPU. If the word “Gaming” appears in the name of the model, be sure - it is supported here. Backlighting can be a nice addition.
The backplane contains two or four memory slots. For the future, it is better to purchase with four, so that later you can increase the total memory capacity. It is more profitable to choose a platform that supports DDR4 memory, the price of which is equal to DDR3. Check the compatibility on the manufacturer's website.
If the video is embedded in the central processor, you need to pay attention to which outputs are used to communicate with the monitor. HDMI and DVI interfaces are widespread.
There are also USB ports on the rear panel. At the moment, their fastest type is USB 3.1, including the input for various gadgets - Type-C.
All modern motherboards have PCI-E 3.0 x16 slots.
An audio controller will be essential for music lovers or movie lovers with high quality sound. We choose the most effective - SupremeFX S1220 or Realtek ALC1150 / 1220. Digital audio has better performance than analog audio. Therefore, manufacturers began to include an optical S / PDIF connector. An audio device with HDMI input can be connected through the corresponding output of the video card.
The power supply of the motherboard and processor must be 24 + 8 pin.
RAM
Previously, its volume was measured in megabytes. Now 4 GB is not enough. Memory strips are located in slots on the motherboard. Some applications and, moreover, games require large resources. The minimum required volume is 8 GB. For gamers, 16 GB is already required.
The performance of the RAM is increased if it works in 2- or 4-channel modes. Therefore, we choose two strips of 4 or 8 GB, depending on the needs.
DDR4 bandwidth is higher than DDR3. At the same time, the power consumption is less. If the first works in the voltage range of 1.2 - 1.35 V, then the second - at 1.5 V.
Memory frequency is critical if the video adapter is built into the processor. Otherwise, strips with a frequency from 2133 to 2666 MHz and a voltage of 1.2 V will do. Increasing the frequency will require an increase in the supply voltage to 1.35 V, which will lead to high energy consumption.
The ideal option is to purchase two 8 GB memory sticks with a frequency of 2666 MHz.
Video card
The graphic card is an important element for transferring video information from the computer to the display. It comes in two types - built-in and external. The first does not require additional power supply and is not intended for games. The most advanced video core in Intel processors is the HD Graphics 630, which is capable of decoding high bitrate video in H.265 format. If this suits you, then you can significantly save on assembly without resorting to using an external adapter. Otherwise, you cannot do without it.
It all comes down to price and performance. The market offers many options for discrete graphics cards. Their power has grown so much that none of them can do without fans, the number of which reaches three. Another important parameter appears - the noise level.
Two manufacturers are fighting for a buyer in this segment - NVidia, which is more productive and colder, and AMD - a balance of price and quality.
For an ordinary user, for whom the maximum requirement is the availability of network games, a model from the younger NVidia line - GTX 1050TI is suitable. It is equipped with enough 4 GB of video memory, the recommended power supply is only 300 watts, and supports a high resolution of 7680 x 4320.
Fans of high-end games need a more powerful video adapter. They can choose from the following models - GeForce GTX 1060, GTX 1070, GTX 1080, GTX 1080TI and GTX Titan X. The latter has 12 GB of the fastest GDDR5X memory, but requires 250 watts of power. GeForce GTX 1080 with 8GB VRAM and 180W power consumption is the best choice for games in 4K resolution of the highest detail. If you are comfortable playing with medium settings, then the GTX 1070 is the price / performance ratio.
To improve energy efficiency, some models have idle cooling systems capable of shutting down the fans to reduce noise. The use of two or more coolers increases the reliability of the video system as a whole in the event of a failure of one of them.
Information carriers
Any computer cannot do without hard drives, which will store personal data or install the operating system. For faster Windows boot up and operation, you will need at least 120GB of SSD storage. It uses less power than a mechanical drive, is quiet and takes up less space in the case. But it is not without its drawbacks. The main ones are MTBF and a higher price. Therefore, if you record a large amount of information, it is cheaper to buy an internal or external hard drive of 4 TB or more.
Power Supply
When all the components of the PC platform are selected, let's start looking for the most important element on which the stability of the system depends. The power supply is involved in the distribution of energy and stabilization of the mains voltage.
If you got an office version of a computer (for example, without an external video card), then 400 watts of power will be enough. The average video adapter will require a 500 watt PSU. To power the GTX Titan X or several devices in SLI / CrossFire mode, you need a unit from 750 watts.
There are two main indicators - efficiency and PFC. Power supplies with an efficiency of more than 80% (80 Plus standard) are considered more efficient. How much useful energy is transferred to the PC components depends on the efficiency. The larger it is, the less the power unit heats up. It is recommended to use a power supply unit with active power factor correction (APFC), as it additionally smooths out the voltage supplied to it. But it has a significant drawback - this type of device does not imply the use of uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).
For more information about the selection of a power supply, see the article Choosing a power supply for a computer.
Housing
All elements of the future system are placed in a metal box. The thicker the sheet, the more reliable. They are categorized by size into ATX, mATX and mini-ITX. The choice is yours. Small enclosures have limited space for good ventilation but take up less space. The ATX size allows you to install a long video card.
The case with a transparent cover will look spectacular, where you can see the LED backlight inside. Inexpensive models are equipped with an additional cooling system. This is important for a gaming PC that experiences intense heat.
It is better to choose the bottom location of the power supply, as it draws cold air from under the bottom.
Peripherals
But the choice is not over yet. You cannot use a computer without input manipulators. Mouse and keyboard are wired (USB and PS / 2) and battery powered. The second option is more practical, but the communication signal sometimes disappears. It is cheaper to buy a set immediately. For a gaming PC, a mouse with multimedia buttons or a gamepad will work.
If there is a need to record information on optical media, then we purchase any DVD-RW drive.
Searching for a monitor is a separate topic. We only note that you need to select LED displays, flicker-free and with the ability to reduce blue radiation. It is recommended to check the comfort of viewing in the store, since TN + film, IPS and VA matrices differ in contrast and color reproduction. Otherwise, the difference is only in resolution and diagonal.
How to assemble a computer yourself from components
PC components are purchased. You can proceed directly to the assembly.
We take the motherboard out of the box and place it on a cardboard or foam rubber. We find on the board a socket for installing the CPU. We take the processor and carefully insert it there without additional effort.
The cooler for the central processor comes with thermal paste. We smear it with a thin layer on the surface of the “stone”. After reading the instructions, install the propeller on the board base. We check the tightness of the bases to each other. We connect the cooler power wires to the “CPU_Fan” connector. We find a similar connector for connecting a case fan.
We place the power supply in the case, which is fastened with screws.
In the front part of the case, we fix the existing hard disks, SSD drives and floppy drives on a metal stand.
Before installing the motherboard, we screw special legs into the holes in the case to prevent short circuits.
The set with the backplane comes with a rear bracket for connectors for external parts of the PC: monitor, speakers, USB devices.
Carefully place the board on the legs and fasten it with screws.
Remove the cover from the back of the case and insert the discrete graphics card into the PCI Express x16 slot.
It's time to connect all the installed elements with cables.
We connect the plugs on the front panel of the case - indicators of hard drives operation and power availability, buttons for restarting and shutting down the PC, as well as for USB ports. The connectors are usually located in one place under the PCI slots and are signed.
We connect hard drives and floppy drives to the motherboard with SATA cables.
It's time to start connecting components to the power supply. First we insert the 24-pin (or 20 + 4 pin) cable, which is responsible for supplying power to the motherboard, then the 8-pin cable that powers the CPU.
Let's supply power to the devices for recording and storing information.
An external video accelerator usually requires additional power. We find this wire at the power supply unit (6 and 8-pin) and insert it into the connector on the device.
The assembly of the computer from scratch is finished. We close the case with a lid. We connect the monitor with a wire for transmitting video data, plug the network cable into the power supply unit, and the mouse and keyboard into the corresponding USB or PS / 2 ports. We turn on the computer.
Important steps in assembling a PC are determining the functions that it will perform and calculating the power of the power supply. This will save you a lot of money. Next, we find out if an external video card is needed. She's not cheap either. SSD drives are essential for maximum system performance. Effective cooling in the case will require an additional turntable. If the motherboard and graphics card have LED backlighting, then it is advisable to choose a frame with a window on the side wall. The main advantage of self-assembly is the ability to replace components at any time.
- 1. System unit - how to choose accessories?
- 2. Installing the processor, RAM and cooling system.
- 3. Applying thermal paste to the processor
- 4. Installing the motherboard into the case
- 5. Connecting the case controls to the motherboard
- 6. Installing the power supply
- 7. Installing drives
- 8. Installing a video card
- 9. Cable routing and completion
Each of us at least once faced a situation when, trusting a sales assistant, he chose a ready-made personal computer, and after a few months he realized that for the same money he could purchase a much more productive version. In order that such a story does not happen to any of our readers in the future, we have prepared instructions on how to assemble a computer yourself.
This process, in fact, turns out to be much simpler than many users who are far from technology assume, but still has a number of nuances, which we want to dwell on in detail in our material. We'll start with a brief reminder of what a computer consists of and how not to make a mistake in choosing components.
System unit - how to choose accessories?
When a customer walks into a computer store and sees the breadth of choice of motherboards, processors, video cards and other components, it seems to him that to connect all these devices together, you need to have at least a Ph.D. in technical sciences. But not everything is so bad, the manufacturers of computer hardware took care of us and many years ago adopted a single standard - Advanced Technology Extended, which unifies the entire hardware of a computer.
The choice of components is the most difficult task when assembling a PC, much more laborious than connecting them together, but this material is devoted to just the last task, and you can find a comparison of the characteristics of video cards and processors in our other publications.
The basis of our entire future system is the motherboard, as its name implies. It practically does not affect performance, but it is responsible for the proper operation of all components of our computer.
The whole process of assembling a PC essentially consists in connecting components using connectors and wires to the board, and therefore it is worthwhile to first evaluate what kind of computer you would like to have at the output and, based on this, choose a motherboard with one or another number of cells for RAM, suitable for the desired processor socket, and so on. Another important characteristic of a motherboard is the form factor - what dimensions you need a case depends on, so be careful right away and when purchasing a large E-ATX motherboard do not expect to fit it into a compact case.
Installing the processor, RAM and cooling system.
To assemble a computer at home, we suggest starting by working on an “open stand”, rather than immediately installing your components in the case, not knowing if the system works or not. The process is as follows: we connect all our parts to the motherboard, update the board firmware, install the operating system and test the resulting assembly for errors and conflicts. If they are not identified, then we are happy to install all this in the case.
Let's start the process by installing the heart of our future PC - the processor. It should be remembered that two market leaders in the production of processors - AMD and Intel, fundamentally use different socket designs, the former have contact pins on the processor, while the latter prefer to place them in the socket.
To install the AMD processor, you need to lift the metal lever, insert the legs into the holes provided for them, and then return the lever to its original position. Thus, we will close the processor contacts with the socket contacts and securely fix this position.
When installing Intel, lift the lever and hold-down cover, and after installing the processor, follow these steps in reverse order. Both the one and the other type of processors should be installed in a strictly defined position, which is shown by arrows on the processor itself and on the motherboard socket.
As for cooling the processor, you need to remember that they are all installed in different ways and the only reasonable action would be to strictly follow the instructions. For example, AMD has a passion for fasteners with plastic lugs, and Intel basically doesn't use such a design solution. In general, most CPU coolers are quite universal, and therefore can work with chipsets from both companies, but be careful when choosing - there are also models that are loyal to only one brand.
Do not forget that many coolers can be installed in two positions, which determines through which wall the heated air will come out - back or top. Therefore, before installing, weigh the potency of both options and your case and choose the most productive one.
After we have secured the heatsink and installed the fan on it, all that remains is to connect the power connector to the corresponding connector on the board called CPU_FAN. More expensive motherboards can provide two similar connectors intended for two coolers at once.
So, to complete the initial work, we just have to install the RAM modules in the DIMM slots. Each bracket has a protective key that makes it impossible for you to insert it the wrong way, and you will not be able to insert memory of the same type, for example, DDR3, into a socket on the motherboard that is not provided for it. Thus, installing RAM is the simplest process in the algorithm for assembling a personal computer.
Most processors have a dual-channel set of RAM, and therefore it is recommended to insert an even number of strips. It should be remembered that a sufficiently large processor cooler can overlap the RAM slots on some motherboards, and therefore it is worthwhile to thoroughly study their compatibility before purchasing.
Applying thermal paste to the processor
Many beginners make a common mistake and think that assembly is solely about assembling parts a la constructor. Thermal grease is no less important for the performance of the processor than itself and the cooling system, which helps their tandem to demonstrate maximum performance. As a rule, a small layer has already been applied to the fan sole, so this does not have to be done during the first assembly.
However, if it is not available, just add a couple of drops of the composition and spread them evenly over the CPU heat-distribution cover. Excess, on the contrary, will reduce the thermal conductivity between the processor and the cooler, which will negatively affect the performance of the computer. If you already decided to assemble a computer with your own hands, then at least do not harm it.
Installing the motherboard into the case
The main line when choosing a case for you should be the one that is responsible for the supported form factors of motherboards. The following are the maximum possible sizes of the components to be installed - believe me, when it comes time to wire the wires, you will say thank you to yourself for choosing the most comfortable case in which you can install all the desired hardware without unnecessary manipulation.
To install the motherboard, you first need to screw the fastening nuts with external and internal threads. As a rule, all bolts and nuts come with the body, they are standardized, so you hardly need to look for something unique to install your assembly. By fixing the plugs and screwing the nuts, you can move on.
Connecting Chassis Controls to the Motherboard
The panel of a standard case is usually equipped with on / off buttons, as well as USB ports and a headphone jack. As a rule, these interfaces are located at the bottom of the motherboard, and therefore we find them and connect them to the case.
The set of wires is quite standard:
- PWR_SW is responsible for the on / off button;
- RESET_SW activates the reset key;
- HDD_LED ("plus" and "minus") activates the drive activity indicator;
- PWR_LED ("plus" and "minus") is responsible for the operation of the computer status indicator.
Installing the power supply
It's time to install the power supply and connect the cables to the motherboard. All connectors have keys that prevent incorrect connection, so an inexperienced user can handle it. Each connector speaks for itself, and if it says SATA, then it is probably intended for a device with the same interface.
Recently, the power supply compartment has been located at the bottom of the case for better ventilation, so make sure that the wires are long enough for the components located in the part of the video card remote from the block. After installing the unit, we stretch two main cables - 24-pin to the motherboard itself and 8-pin to the processor. When purchasing a PSU, we advise you to immediately purchase a bundle of nylon ties so that your bundle does not get confused between the PC parts.
Installing drives
There are several drive form factors: 2.5 ", 3.5", and M2 SSDs. The latter are installed on the motherboard itself, but the first two must first be installed in the case.
Installing a drive into a slot with a slide is as simple as installing RAM, and therefore we will not dwell on this point in detail. It remains only to bring cables from the motherboard and power supply unit to them, which have a SATA connector.
If you want to install an optical drive, then the algorithm is the same - we fix it in the 5.25-inch compartment, remove the front cover and turn on the power.
Installing a graphics card
Since we have set ourselves the goal of assembling a PC correctly, then we cannot do without an item dedicated to the video card. It is installed last and power cables are pre-installed for it. The graphics accelerator needs to be installed in the very first PCI Express x16 port, but modern video cards take up two or even three slots, so access to the downstream port will be blocked.
After these procedures, it remains only to remove two plugs to which the radiator will be brought out, and also tightly screw the video card to the motherboard and the back cover of the case. The number of power cables will depend on the power of the video card and in extreme cases you will have to get cables to the power supply unit or use adapters.
Cable routing and completion
The entire list of components is combined into a single system, and therefore it is time to put the finishing touches. If the assembly is standard, then you just need to choose what to connect the coolers to: motherboard, reobass or power supply unit. After that, you just need to carefully lay the remaining cables and tighten them with nylon ties, and then close the case cover.
After that, we connect the monitor and other peripherals to the system unit, install the operating system and use a brand new assembled computer.
We hope that our material on how to assemble a computer yourself will help you save money and choose the most successful combination of elements, regardless of the tricks of the computer equipment sellers!
Assembling a new computer is still a challenge, because wherever you look, store shelves are simply bursting with all sorts of PC components. How to choose from among this squeaking, buzzing, winking light bulbs of the masses what is worthy of becoming the "internal organs" of your future "family member"? And so that these "organs" are compatible with each other?
Someone thinks that it is better to entrust the choice of filling for the "iron pet" to specialists or purchase a system unit already assembled, but we are not looking for easy ways. Assembling a gaming computer is not such a difficult task when there is an assistant. Today we will learn how to use the free web service "Online PC configurator" of one computer store and compose 3 assemblies for games in 2017: up to 30,000 rubles, up to 50,000 rubles and up to 100,000 rubles. Believe me, even a second grader can handle it!
How to determine what kind of hardware you need
The selection of PC components is usually followed by the selection of the motherboard and other parts, taking into account compatibility. When assembling a gaming machine, I advise you to slightly change this order, after all.No, I am not urging you to sweep the latest generation of powerful and expensive vidyahis off the shelves. To buy exactly what will meet your tasks and not spend too much, it is more correct to do this:
- Make a list of toys that you are going to hack into on a new computer (after all, we are building a game machine).
- Go through the official websites of the selected games and write down their system requirements. It is also advisable to look at the resources where gamers communicate and take a closer look at their recommendations for choosing hardware. Sometimes these tips are more useful than the developers' advice.
- The highest system requirements should be taken as the basis for a future build.
The key link in the selection of a complete set for a gaming PC is a processor + video card (sometimes + monitor). We select the rest for them.
How to properly allocate your budget
In the survey, the budget allocation is no less important than the correct selection of iron, because when making an assembly there is always a temptation to add something extra to it, and money tends to run out unexpectedly.The set of components for the gaming computer system unit includes 7-15 items. Our task is to divide them into 3 groups according to the degree of importance:
- The key link in the future assembly - processor and video card... These are the most important and usually the most expensive devices.
- 2nd stage equipment - what is necessary for the work of a PC and what you cannot do without. This includes: a motherboard, a drive for installing the OS and programs (optimally SSD), a processor cooler and a power supply. We include the power supply into the assembly as one of the last, but we reserve funds for it in advance, since "".
- Equipment of the 3rd stage... This group includes something that you can do without in case of a shortage of money (in order to buy later) and what you can save on: RAM (instead of 32 GB for the first time, 4-16 GB is enough), a second drive, an optical drive, a discrete sound card , peripherals, case of the system unit. As for the cases: if the design with bells and whistles and the famous brand, which mainly determine their cost, are not especially important to you, buy a regular inexpensive case that fits in size.
Devices of the first and second stage are 80-90% of your costs. Cutting the budget for them is extremely undesirable, because this is what will carry the main burden “on its shoulders” for 3-5 years in the coming years. If the best fit part seems too expensive for you, it is better to look for it in other stores.
When choosing equipment of the third stage, do not pursue cheapness. Savings in no way should concern the quality side of devices! Only quantitative.
Gaming economy computer for 30,000 rubles (without peripherals)
Well, we figured out the theory, it's time to start practice. The free one, which I mentioned above, belongs to the computer store "DNS". This is not an advertisement, it's just that this service seemed to me the best among analogs, specifically for unprepared users. It has a well-developed check of device compatibility by various parameters, there is an automatic calculation of the cost of goods and sometimes explanatory prompts pop up. In addition, it is very easy to use, and the finished assembly can be saved to your account on the store's website. It is not necessary to buy anything after that.Before starting the build, the service page looks like this:
Let's start by including two key devices into it (I think everyone understands how to do this). The first is the processor. The main parameters of product selection (filters) are collected in the column on the left. Here are the criteria I set to select the models that fit me:
- Manufacturer AMD. Since we are building a budget gaming computer, I prefer this family.
- For a gaming computer.
- With free multiplier and 8 cores.
- No cooling system included.
The configurator selected 5 processors for me at a price of 6,900 rubles to 11,300 rubles. The cost of the first three is almost the same, the performance is the same, so I will choose the less hot and most energy efficient model. AMD FX 8320E... To add it to the assembly, press the button " In the set».
- For a gaming PC.
- Manufacturer AMD.
- The amount of video memory is 2-4 GB.
It also includes an automatic filter " Compatible". It is present in every tab, but sometimes you should disable it. Why - I'll tell you a little later.
The service has selected 14 models. From the brief description in the catalog, I find it difficult to understand how they differ. To see all the characteristics of the device I like, I double-click on its name. This will open me a product card with detailed descriptions and pictures.
To return to the configurator, I will click " Back to catalog».
After reviewing all the models that suit me in terms of parameters and price, the kit is sent not too expensive ASUS AMD Radeon RX 460 DUAL OC... By the way, it does not require additional power supply.
So, the key components are selected, let's move on to the devices of the second group. The next step is the motherboard.
From the compatible with the processor and related to the class of the game configurator found 4 models for me. Having compared their characteristics, after reading reviews and reviews, I send to the assembly MSI 970A SLI KRAIT EDITION, since other things being equal, it is slightly cheaper than the others.
Now it's time to choose a cooler. My criteria:
- Dissipated power - from 100 W (I'm guided by the processor TDP - 95 W).
- The base material is copper.
- Type - tower.
- Connection connector - 4 pin.
Socket AM3 + compatibility is set automatically. The choice fell on an inexpensive DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX 200T.
I wonder if I'm on budget? At the top of the configurator, the total cost of my potential purchases is displayed. There are about 9,000 rubles in stock, which means that everything is fine for now.
What is that red-green bar next to the price, and why does it say "Compatibility Issues" and "Not Optimal Power Consumption"? It turns out that this is also normal, because I have not yet included the power supply and case in the assembly. If the notification of problems (red icons) remains after adding all parts of the system unit to the kit, then you are wrong somewhere.
- Capacity 120-128 GB.
- SATA-3 interface.
I will see other characteristics in the description of the models.
I'll get the fastest one available to me for the price - Sandisk SSD Plus... 120 GB is enough for the first time. Later I will buy a hard drive for storing files.
By the way, if you have not added a PC case to the package, the configurator will consider the SATA interface incompatible with your devices. Why this is done - I don't know. To avoid distraction, just uncheck the Compatible box.
The second group is almost over. The power supply unit remains, but I will choose it a little later. First, the RAM. I plan to equip my computer with 8-16 GB memory, but since I no longer have the funds for this, I will buy 1 4 GB strip for now. Let it be a memory JRam - DDR3 1600 MHz.
The total power consumption of my current build was 244 watts. The video card specifications indicate the recommended power supply unit power - 400 W. You also need some margin for a possible upgrade and overclocking of the system. Accordingly, the power of the power supply for the PC being assembled must be at least 450-500 W. And of course, it must be of high quality and reliable.
Following these wishes, I am sending a 500-watt Accord ACC-500W-80BR.
In addition to performance, I pay attention to the presence of all the required connectors (the main thing is 4 + 4 or 8 pins for powering the processor) and the 80+ Bronze energy efficiency certificate.
Well, it remains to choose a cozy "house" for all this good. An expensive fancy "cottage", alas, did not fit into my budget plans, so I will focus on a simple steel case AeroCool V3X Advance... The main thing is that it suits me in terms of size and the presence of the necessary parts: shelves for 2.5-inch drives, a cut-out in the CPU cooler area, 2 built-in fans and a USB 3.0 connector on the front side.
The configurator shows that all the selected devices are compatible, and their total cost was 31,843 rubles.
It turned out to be a small overrun, but this is an approximate price, because it is not necessary to buy all the hardware in one store. It may be sold for cheaper elsewhere.
Now I can save the configuration in my personal account (registration on the DNS website is required) in order to be able to return to it again (track price changes), edit and show it to other people (share the link).
Mid-budget gaming PC for just 50,000 rubles (without peripherals)
Let us consolidate the acquired skills and put together another assembly of a gaming PC worth about 50,000 rubles. This time, no detailed explanation.Let's start with the processor + video card bundle. Since this amount is also not going to clear up, let's again turn to the AMD line and add it to the CPU kit AMD FX-8320 (Compared to FX-832E, it tolerates strong heat better and more stable). A couple of him will be a video card Gigabyte AMD Radeon RX 580 AORUS -decent gaming model with 8 GB of memory on board.
Next, we select devices of the second stage. This is a gaming motherboard based on AMD 970 chipset GIGABYTE GA-970-Gaming, cooler DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX 300 130 W and SSD ADATA SU800 for 128 GB. Let's take the same power supply as in the previous assembly. Its power is just enough for all equipment, taking into account overclocking, plus all the required connectors and a bronze 80+ certificate are included.
The final chord is the RAM and the case. I throw in the set 1 RAM module with the desired parameters at the lowest price. it Goodram play with a capacity of 8 GB and with a frequency of 1866 MHz. In the future, the amount of memory can be increased to 32 GB. And all this will "live" in the "house" BitFenix \u200b\u200bNova.This case is also not distinguished by delights, but everything you need is in it. Its main advantages are the lower placement of the power supply unit (important, since the processor and video card are much hotter here than in the previous assembly, and the power supply unit needs cold air) and the presence of a compartment for laying wires behind the back wall (the fewer the wires inside, the better the heat sink + it's comfortable).
As a result, the goods totaled 56 794 rubles. Also overrun, but gaming video cards are expensive these days.
Let's walk! Game system unit for 100,000 rubles
With hundreds of thousands of rubles, you can afford not to save. For this amount we will collect a full-fledged computer for the most resource-intensive toys and, perhaps, there will still be funds for additional sweets.So, here's what I got:
- Processor + video card: Intel Core i5-6600K and MSI GeForce GTX 1070 AERO OC.
- Motherboard: MSI H270 GAMING PRO CARBON (Intel H270 chipset).
- Cooler DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX 200T.
- SSD PlextorM8SeY with PCI-E interface and read / write speed of 2400/1000 Mb / s.
- Power Supply Seasonic 550W (80+ Gold).
- Memory Goodram play- DDR4, 2 modules of 8 GB, frequency 2133 MHz.
- HDD Toshiba P300 - capacity 2 TB, speed 7200 rpm. In previous builds there was no.
- Optical drive BD-RE LG BH16NS40 with the function of reading and writing 2-layer Blu-ray discs. In previous builds there was no.
- Housing AeroCool Aero-500 with a fan control unit and the possibility of installing liquid cooling.
The cost of the configuration was 100,343 rubles. We met completely! It was not enough only for discrete sound, but it turned out very well without it.
I will not argue that the above assemblies are "the ultimate truth", because they are made up of the assortment of one store. Most likely, they can be supplemented and improved without going beyond the allotted budget, but for this you need to browse online stores, read reviews, watch test results, compare and analyze the experience of other users. However, this is what you should do before buying, since the service allows you to save your assembly in your personal account, but, unfortunately, only one.If you do not have experience in the independent selection of components for a computer, do not rush to place an order immediately. First, consult with knowledgeable people (not from the store employees), and only when the assembly is approved by several experts - buy.
More on the site:
DIY construction set for adults: how to build a gaming computer without being a specialist updated: September 5, 2017 by the author: Johnny mnemonic
Well, if the components have already been purchased, and it only remains to assemble your computer from all this, then let's figure out together what is where and why
STEP 1: Getting Started
Assembling a computer yourself is not so difficult as it seems at first glance - the main thing is to do everything carefully, not to rush anywhere. To assemble your computer you will need:
- crosshead screwdriver
- pliers
- cable ties
- wire cutters
- iodine or brilliant green with bandages
A Phillips screwdriver is the most basic tool. In principle, it is often enough just it to completely assemble a computer.
Pliers may be needed, for example, for twisting the racks under the motherboard, bending some elements of the case.
Ties are necessary in order to neatly lay and tighten the wires inside the case after assembly, and wire cutters are necessary to cut the ties and break out the body caps.
Iodine, brilliant green, bandages may be needed if your body has sharp edges. You can cut yourself corny, this happens quite often, so it is better to have it all at hand.
STEP 2: Understanding the Basic Types of Mounts
Mounts for accessories should be supplied with the case. Here is the purpose of the main ones:
1. To fix the side covers of the system unit: 
2. For screwing into plastic parts. Used, for example, to secure case fans:
3. Racks-mounts are screwed into the case of the system unit in the places where the motherboard is attached:
4. Used to mount hard drives, drives. The same screws, but slightly smaller, are used to secure the motherboard:
5. For fixing all other parts inside the case of the system unit, for example, video card, sound card, power supply. They can also be used to tighten the side covers of the case, if there are no fasteners No. 1:
When tightening, it is necessary to avoid excessive force, tighten it firmly, but in moderation so as not to disrupt the thread.
STEP 3: Getting Started
The assembly must be done as accurately as possible, without rushing anywhere. Never use excessive force to something - all the parts of the computer connect and fit into each other very easily.
If something is difficult to screw or insert, then you are doing something wrong.
Any computer assembly begins with fixing the motherboard inside the case. Open the case cover, put it on its side. On the wall, you will see holes for the motherboard mounts. Place the motherboard inside the case so that its mounting holes line up with the holes in the side of the case. Now in all the holes of the case, suitable for the holes of the motherboard, it is necessary to screw the racks No. 3. Pliers can come in handy here:
After the standoffs are screwed on, insert the metal blank plate that comes with the motherboard into the back of the case:
And only after that do you finally insert the motherboard in its rightful place and screw it on.
STEP 4: Install the processor
After the motherboard is installed, you can install the processor on it. Remove the plastic cover from the motherboard socket and open it. If you don't know how it opens, find the instructions for the motherboard and look in it, everything should be shown in the pictures:
When installing the processor, note that there are triangular marks on the processor and on the socket, and in some cases special grooves. They are needed in order not to confuse exactly how to put the processor. Align the labels and carefully insert the processor into the socket:
And remember - no strength, neither physical nor Jedi!
The processor is very easy to insert and force can permanently damage the socket.
After installing the processor, the socket must be closed. This is done in the same way as the discovery, only the other way around - but I think you yourself have thought of this.
STEP 5: Install RAM
There should be no problems with installing memory. First, push the holders along the edges of the slots, then insert the RAM strips until they click:
Pay attention to the cut in the middle of the memory contacts and the bulge in the memory slot on the board - they need to be aligned in order for the strap to fit properly:
Random access memory is one of the few parts that can be inserted with some effort. Try not to bend the motherboard too much when applying force. Support the right side with your hand if necessary.
Pay attention to the colors of the RAM slots. For example, if you have two memory sticks, then they should be inserted into slots with the same colors. Thanks to this, the computer will be able to use dual-channel memory mode, which will allow it to work somewhat faster.
STEP 6: Install CPU Cooling
Before installing the cooling, be sure to remove the protective film, if any:
Apply a very thin layer of thermal grease to the heatsink sole and install it on the processor. You can see the instructions that came with your cooler for installing it.
Make sure that the cooler fits snugly against the surface of the processor, there are no distortions after installing it. Incorrect cooling setting can lead to constant overheating of the processor.
Remember to connect the fan power to the motherboard after installation.
On the motherboard, the fan connector is usually labeled "CPU":
The "CHA" connector is needed to connect the case fans.
It is allowed to connect 3-pin (three-pin) fans to a 4-pin (four-pin) motherboard connector.
STEP 7: Installing the Graphics Card
If you don't have a graphics card and decide to use the motherboard's integrated graphics, skip this step and proceed to the next.
There is nothing complicated in installing a video card. Break or pull out the cover on the back of the case where the video card will be installed:
Note if there is a latching mechanism on the PCI-Express graphics card slot, if there is, open it before installing the card. After inserting the card into the slot, the mechanism should snap into place:
Also, do not forget to fasten the video card with screw number 5 to prevent it from accidentally falling out of the slot.
STEP 8: Installing Hard Drives and Drives
There is a hard drive cage in the front of the case. Install the hard drive into it with the cover up, with the contacts towards the motherboard. The hard drives are secured with # 4 screws.
The front panel of the case has removable blanking elements for installing drives. Remove the front cover from the case and pull out the plug. Also in the case itself, break off or pull out the iron plug at the front of the drive cage.
Replace the case bezel, and then install the drive, remembering to tighten it with # 4 screws.
STEP 9: Chassis ventilation system
For proper cooling, constant ventilation of the air inside the case is required. For this, additional case fans are used.
Recommended fans in front lower and side parts of the body to put on fence (blowing) air into the body. And the fans back and top parts of the body to put on blowing out air. This ensures the most optimal ventilation of the internal space inside the case.
The fans are connected to the connectors on the motherboard, designated as "CHA" or "FAN", or directly to the power supply unit, to the MOLEX connector, depending on what type of connectors is used on the fan:
In general, the design of a cooling system is a topic for a separate article. Novice assemblers are advised to adhere to the scheme described above - it is the most optimal and widespread. Over time, an understanding will come about which parts require more cooling, and which parts do not need cooling at all, how best to build a cooling system for this particular computer, etc.
STEP 10: Connecting the front panel of the chassis
Each motherboard has system panel connectors, where almost all elements of the front panel are connected. Where to connect what, you can look either on the board itself, or in the instructions for it:
Often, all motherboards use the same designations:
- PWR LED - computer power indicator;
- HDD LED - indicator of the hard drive;
- PWR SW - power on button;
- RESET - "reset" button;
- SPEAKER - to connect a buzzer (which beeps at startup);
Be careful when connecting the PWR LED and HDD LED indicators - polarity is important for their operation, which is also indicated in the instructions. If connected incorrectly, the indicators will simply not work. To find out which polarity corresponds to the wire of the indicator itself that you connect, look at its color. Black is a minus, and any color is a plus. The system panel connectors have an arrangement such that the plus is always to the left of the minus, - knowing this rule, you can easily determine the polarity of the wire connection.
STEP 11: Connect all other cables
Now you need to connect the SATA cables, USB connectors, and audio outputs. All SATA ports on the board are numbered in order. At the very first, it is recommended (but not necessary) to connect the system hard drive, then the rest of the drives, and after them the drive. This scheme is not of a fundamental nature, but sometimes it allows you to slightly reduce the time to turn on the computer.
If you have an additional (non-integrated) sound card installed, then you need to connect the cables to it, and not to the motherboard.
Then connect the USB cables to the corresponding connectors on the board:
Power to hard drives and drives:
If the video card has an input for connecting additional power, then we connect the power there too.
If the fans are powered only by the MOLEX connector (large rectangular, 4-pin), connect them to the power supply. If possible, connect the fan to the motherboard, use it.
STEP 13: Finish and start
Take another close look at the entire computer assembly. Is everything firmly in place, is everything fully inserted and connected. Drive the cat away and put on a bulletproof vest.
Plug in your monitor, keyboard, mouse, power cable and get ready to start your computer for the first time.
If everything was done correctly, then when you press the power button on the computer case, it should turn on. If it does not turn on, check the correct connection of the front panel buttons to the motherboard, check again if everything is connected correctly, if the computer is plugged into a power outlet.
I hope you succeeded the first time, and the computer rustled with fans. If you have any questions, ask in the comments.
We will cover BIOS setup and operating system installation in future articles.
P.S. If you have read this huge article to the end and you are still not enough, I suggest watching the video "How not to assemble gaming computers":
After working for 3 years and 5 months in a large company that assembles computer equipment, I decided on a crucial step - dismissal. During this time, I learned how to assemble all kinds of computers, laptops, monitors, monoblocks and nettops. I learned everything that was possible, and further work did not bring the same initial interest.
The principle of correct and fast assembly at the factory is to keep order. The technological process implies a production conveyor. For example, the (abstract) daily norm of a plant worker is 30 ready-made system units (GSB). The assembler can perform it only if the technology is observed. This is what I’ll talk about step by step in this guide.
I specify that this is exactly the assembly manual. We will not select a kit for your budget here!
Basic tools for work:
- phillips screwdriver;
- a spatula or card for applying thermal paste;
- ties for tying wires;
- nippers;
- pliers (in case there is no other tool for tightening the motherboard racks).
In my case, the toolbox is slightly different. I use with a long magnetic bit, wire cutters, 200 mm ties (for small wires I use 100-150 mm), a 5 mm head bit for screwing in the motherboard racks.
You bought a bunch of components and brought them home. Where to begin? From unpacking, of course. We carefully remove the motherboard, processor, RAM and CPU cooler from the boxes and begin to complete (we need to combine it all). I recommend using an anti-static wrist strap so you don't have to buy a new part instead of a burnt one.
Here I want to make a digression. In this case, a variant of a simple case is considered, in which the wires do not need to be pulled in a clever way through special channels through various technological holes.
Laying and tying wires correctly is a whole science. It took me a long time to learn this. If this article gets ten comments, I will record a video on the correct and beautiful laying of wires inside a PC. In the meantime, we will assume that we are not connecting anything - the main thing is that they do not fall into the moving fan blades.
Final stage of assembly
There is very little left and the new system unit will be assembled.
- We connect SATA wires to all drives and DVD drive. The hard drive is connected to slot 0 (or 1 if there is no zero). Drive to slot 2.
- If we are assembling a gaming computer and your power supply is quite powerful for connecting a video card, we install it in the motherboard connector, having previously opened the latching mechanism on it. Here again you need to look so that nothing gets into the fan blades, otherwise there is a possibility of their jamming. It's easy to miss this moment when the case is closed.
- We connect the power supply of the video card, if there is a corresponding connector. They are 6-pin and 8-pin. Use an adapter if necessary.
After examining again what happened for possible jambs, you can start the system. Without closing the cover of the case, we turn on the computer to the network to check its operability. When you press the Power button, the power and HDD indicator should light up, all fans (CPU, GPU, case) should turn on, and a BIOS loading image will appear on the connected monitor.
Diagnostics of possible problems
If the indicators do not light up, you need to check the connection of the front panel wires. If there is no image on the monitor, the RAM is most likely poorly inserted. With a constant reboot, you need to make sure that the add. the processor power has good contact with the mother (did you plug it in at all?). The complete absence of signs of life of the system unit may mean a problem with the power supply, or the wires of the front panel are still incorrectly connected.
I described the algorithm of actions that we used in production. I think that this short instruction will help beginners master a simple process and learn how to properly assemble a personal computer on their own.
