Building a custom computer can be a daunting task, especially with the constant changing technology. With a blueprint, anyone with determination and time can actually complete the task. A blueprint is not a bill of materials (BOM). The former contains components and the latter contains the actual parts. Components are general part categories whereas parts are specific items to be purchased. A lot of research and budgeting decisions are required to go from components to parts.
So here is the blueprint to building a standard computer:
- Central Processing Unit (CPU) - comes in diffferent socket types that have to match that of the motherboard.
- Motherboard - main circuit board that comes in different form factors or sizes.
- Power Supply Unit (PSU) - choose a fully modular and efficient PSU to reduce noise and ease installation.
- Memory (RAM) - minimum of 8GB spread evenly over available slots on the motherboard.
- Storage Drives - minimum of 2, a solid state drive (SSD) as the system drive and mechanical hard drive as the data drive.
- Computer Case - good airflow and supports motherboard's form factor.
- Montitor - avoid monitors that are only capable of 1920x1080 resolutions.
- Keyboard & Mouse - Wired PS/2 keyboards are most responsive and wireless mouse/trackball avoids tangle.
- Speakers
- Thermal Paste, Grease, Or Compound - just a pea-sized drop on top of CPU between the heatsink.
- Software Licenses - operating system and any additional software.
- Graphic/Video Card (optional) - Most Intel CPUs have decent graphics and will be adequate for most users.
- CD/DVD/Blu-ray Drive (optional) - Most software can be downloaded or installed from a USB flash drive.
- Wireless Network Card (optional) - look for a motherboard that includes this feature.
- Camera (optional) - great for video chat.
- Microphone (optional) - only for high quality recording since most camera includes a microphone.
Gaming systems, photo/video editing workstations, or other specialized needs can follow the same blueprint, but will require upgraded cooling components like CPU heatsinks and case fans. Most of these components will plug together and any needed cables are usually included with the motherboard, case, and PSU.
To turn this blueprint into a BOM you will first have to define your needs and establish your budget. Then research each component to find one that will meet your needs and budget. If you don’t have the time, then 802.Tech4U can be of assistance. We can handle the entire build to deliver a fully running system or just perform the research to turn the blueprint into a BOM so that you can shop and build it yourself.