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Assembling a computer is actually a rather simple procedure. Computers are modular, a collection of components. This means that we can select and purchase our components and then install them to complete an assembly. We will completely assemble a Desktop Computer in this demonstration. Most installations only require one tool, a Philips Head screwdriver.
The first step is to decide what components to purchase. Some components are required and others optional. It is recommended that you select components based on what you want to do with a computer rather than building a minimal configuration.
Minimal Configuration
Component
Motherboard Processor Computer Case Power Supply Memory Hard Drive Optical Drive Operating System Monitor Keyboard Mouse
Details
Must have onboard Video and Sound Must match Motherboard socket Any size from Mini ATX to Full ATX May be included with case 1 GB minimum depending on Operating System Any size CD/DVD combo drive Windows 7 recommended If replacing a computer can use existing monitor If replacing a computer can use existing keyboard If replacing a computer can use existing mouse
A minimal build is sufficient if the user is only planning to create text documents and browse the Internet. It will not perform as well if the user is planning to use advanced graphics such as video editing or use high demand programs such as 3D Games. In our demonstration we will be assembling a computer to match our requirements which will exceed the minimum required. Our computer will be used for high demand programs including 3D Games. TIP - When selecting components start with the Motherboard (Mainboard). All other components connect to the Motherboard so it will be a determining factor in the other components to purchase. All components must be compatible with the motherboard. When selecting my components I enlisted the aid of a very knowledgeable person at Compu X Parts. He helped me make sure that all my components matched.
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Our Computer
Component
Motherboard made by Gigabyte LGA 775 socket for Intel Core Processor family/ Intel Pentium processor family/ Intel Celeron processor family
Details
Full Form ATX Factor Takes Intel LGA 775 Processors Onboard High Definition audio Does not have onboard graphics 4 DDR2 Dual Channel memory slots up to 16 GB total USB 2.0, 8 in back, 4 more available for front RJ-45 Ethernet port PS2 keyboard and mouse ports 1 x PCI Express x16 slot 4 x PCI Express x1 expansion slots 2 x PCI expansion slots Intel Core 2 Duo, E7600, 3.06 GHz Smilodon mid-size case by RaidMAX 500 watt nVidia 220 w/1GB DDR2 graphics memory, PCI Express x16 2 x 2GB sticks 500GB Sata CD/DVD combo drive w/writer Windows 7 Home Premium 64 Bit 20 Flat Screen Use existing keyboard Use existing mouse
Processor Computer Case Power Supply Video Card Memory Hard Drive Optical Drive Operating System Monitor Keyboard Mouse
Front View
Rear View
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Case Location
Line up the motherboard to the I/O panel in the rear. A new I/O panel will be furnished with the motherboard. Pop out the old panel and replace with the new panel.
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There will be standoffs furnished with the case. They are put in pre-drilled holes in the side of the case. The hole placements are standard and will accommodate all sizes of motherboards. You will only use standoffs in locations that line up with holes in the motherboard. Remove any extra standoffs as they could short the motherboard to the case. Line up the motherboard to the new I/O panel and locate the places to insert a standoff. Insert the standoffs.
Standoffs in holes
Standoffs
Motherboard hole
Double check that the holes line up with the standoffs. Place the motherboard on the standoffs. Insert machine screws through the motherboard into the standoffs. Tighten the screws firmly but do not over tighten.
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Alignment notches
Secure latch
The CPU cooling fan sits directly on the CPU. There are 4 latching pins that line up with 4 holes around the CPU. CPUs require a gel to make good contact between the fan and the CPU. Our CPU comes with the gel already on the fan. You may be directed to put gel on another CPU which is supplied with the CPU. Locate the fan on the CPU and line up the latching pins with the holes around the CPU. Press firmly on each latching pin until it clicks in place. There should be no give once the pins are seated fully. Connect the CPU fan plug to the CPU fan socket on the motherboard.
Memory slots
To insert the memory sticks push back the tabs on each end of the socket. Line up the stick to the slots. Press firmly until the tabs snap back into place on both ends. The slots are keyed to prevent insertion in the wrong direction. If the stick does not seat with firm pressure turn it around and reinsert.
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Our computer does not have video processing available on the motherboard. This was deliberate as we saved in cost by getting a motherboard without video. The video card will take over all video processing on our computer. Locate the PCI Express slot on the motherboard. Line up the video card with the socket and determine which baffle to remove. Remove the baffle. Realign the video card with the socket. Press firmly until the card is seated fully. There is a small tab at the back of the PCI Express slot which locks the card in place. Use a machine screw and lock the front of the card in place.
Remove baffle
The video card has a driver installation CD that will be run after installation of the operating system. Installation of any other expansion cards follows this basic procedure.
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Remove covers
Slide in drive
Lock in place
Replace covers
Attach rails
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Cables connected
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Every component must be powered. Those components attached to the motherboard are powered by the motherboard. The video card, CPU, and CPU cooling fan will all be powered by the motherboard. Any other component including the motherboard must be connected to the power supply. There are two connections to supply power to the motherboard, a 24 pin connector, and a 4 pin connector. These are keyed connections so they cannot be connected incorrectly. Note - Some motherboards have a 20 pin vs a 24 pin connector. On our computer the 24 pin connector is a combination of a 20 pin and a 4 pin. They are also keyed to fit together.
24 pin socket
24 pin connector
Connected
4 pin socket
4 pin connector
Connected
4 pin to fan
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The computer is now completely assembled. The next steps are to connect the peripherals keyboard, mouse, monitor, and etc. Then install the operating system. And finally install any drivers from the installation CDs provided. Install the operating system first. This is a fairly automatic process and is well documented. The installation follows a Wizard format and you simply supply answers to the questions it asks. To install drivers install the Motherboard drivers first. Then install any peripheral drivers. It is possible that Windows 7 will install drivers for you but always run the driver CDs to be sure.
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