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10. Introduction and Purpose20. The Pros and Cons
30. The Basics
40. Nice to have50. Lets build it60. Recommendations61. Case62. Motherboard63. Processor64. RAM65. Video66. Sound67. Drives70. Potential Problems80. Miscellaneous Info
90. Useful Links10. Introduction and PurposeThere is significant interest in building your own computer, especially for those who have never done so. With the current state of marketing and availability, it's relatively easy for someone with moderate knowledge to tackle this enjoyable project ... and the purpose of this FAQ is to provide some help and direction for that goal. If you don't find your answer here, ask in the forum. You are sure to get help and encouragement. Enjoy!
 got feedback?by KeysCapt To submit your entry, just go to the bottom of the FAQ page, and click on the link there, or right here. You can submit a question and answer, or just your question, and we'll try to put an appropriate answer to the question. Also, it's a good idea to send an IM to one of the FAQ owners in order for your entry to be seen promptly. Submissions will need to be approved and may be edited for accuracy.
got feedback?by slash The hardware forums are also home to some FAQ's about similar considerations when buying computer parts. got feedback?by slash 20. The Pros and Cons
With an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) PC, you do not have as many choices, although some like Dell have evolved to allow more leeway in specifying your new PC. If you really don't like the idea of plugging the components in yourself, you can come close to building your own with Dell and others who allow you to specify processor, RAM, video/sound and other ingredients.
got feedback?by slash got feedback?by slash got feedback?by slash But there are two real positive aspects to this: First, you build it, and you are intimately familiar with how things work now ... and Second, you can get all the help you need right here on the site! Many folks in the TD forum are quite knowledgeable and helpful. There are several other forums on the site that also offer help: Computer Hardware Discussion/Reviews Computer Hardware Help
got feedback?by KeysCapt got feedback?by slash 30. The Basics
Here are some things to consider: Pro AMD •Cheaper •Often times perform better than Intel •Wide range of motherboard support Pro Intel •Run cool •Faster clock speeds (does not necessarily indicate performance) •Better application tweaks for some multimedia software •Wide range of motherboard support Note: Some of the info above is outdated and no longer applicable. In many ways, the question comes down to individual preference, and both manufacturers continue to pump out new processors on a regular basis. TD members are probably equally divided, and everyone experiences success.
got feedback?by slash You can, however, add memory (RAM) and perform a few other upgrades to your laptop. got feedback?by slash Required Components •Processor (CPU): In a cruncher, the processor is the most important factor in determining how much crunching is done. The faster the processor, the faster work gets done. Choice of manufacturer is an individual thing, but generally try to buy the best you can afford. Money spent here pays off! •Memory (RAM): RAM is also a very important component and the more you have the better. Larger amounts of RAM may speed up crunching by a modest amount, but mainly serves to keep your system running smoothly. 512 MB is the minimum recommended for Windows XP machines but more will work far better. Many if not most run 1GB (one gigabyte) and more. Most current machines will accept 2GB and up. Vista works best with 2 GB or more. •Motherboard: The motherboard is the guts of a computer and can influence the speed of crunching. Some motherboard chipsets are faster than others which will result in faster crunching times. Do some research here ... and make an effort to match your mobo to your new CPU. •Hard Drive: Every computer requires a hard drive, but it does not really affect the speed of crunching. 7200 RPM hard drives will give you faster performance in load times of applications, but should have little to no effect on crunching. •CD/DVD Drive: While not an every day requirement in a pure cruncher, you will need an optical drive to initially load the operating system onto your hard drive. This may be temporary in nature, and a good external drive will work too. •Video Card: Every computer requires a video card even if there is no monitor hooked up. A faster video card will not speed up crunching but will allow your games to run faster. For pure crunching, many motherboards contain "on board" video that should be sufficient. •Operating System: Having a stable operating system is important to efficient crunching. If the OS routinely crashes, crunch time is lost. Microsoft's Windows 7 is the latest Microsoft operating system and is very stable. •Power Supply: While some case manufacturers include a PSU, you would do well to invest in a quality unit, with more than ample power. When a power supply fails, it can take out other components. Stable voltage is key here to feed your system continually. •Network Device: You must have either a Network Card or a modem in your cruncher in order to send and receive work from the servers. Once again, most motherboards now have on board NIC's. In addition to the above, you will might need a case, proper cables, fans, and a heatsink unit. Ceramique is a good recommended thermal paste as well.
got feedback?Hey all, how about a section here on GPU's now that they're in full swing :). May want to talk about integrated vs discrete graphics, overheating issues, how to run multiple tasks on one GPU, etc. 2013-01-22 20:08:04 (ayoustic by slash got feedback?by slash got feedback?by KeysCapt got feedback?by slash
got feedback?by slash • Retail simply means that the component is in the same packaging that you would find in a retail store. It includes all the accessories to make the device work; as with a CPU, the retail version comes with heat sink, fan and WARRANTY. You will almost always pay more for retail. In general, you can feel safe buying OEM and saving some money since they usually come with a 30 day warranty. Most failures of computer parts occur within a short period of time, but not all.
got feedback?by slash If your intention is to build a state-of-the-art cruncher/gamer/MP3 extreme machine, then you will obviously be looking at a bigger budget, and searching for the best components for your new box. But if you're just interested in building a new box to add some crunching power to your existing setup, you can put an effective machine together without spending a ton of money. Either way, it's a fun project, and you should find some great info right here.
got feedback?by KeysCapt A barebones system is one that the distributor has put together to save you some of the hassle of component selection, and maybe to save you some money as well. On the other hand, it may be one that the distributor has thrown together to get rid of surplus or unpopular stock ... reputation matters here. In general, a barebones system consists of a case, motherboard, CPU and RAM. If you want to go this route, you will simply add whatever else you need, like CD-RW, Hard Drive, Video and Audio, NIC, OS, and so on. This is really sort of a half-way point between an OEM computer and a build-it-yourself box, OR, an easy starting point which saves some of the decision making ... the basic parts are already there.
got feedback?by KeysCapt You can spend a lot of money on a case, and get all sorts of LED lights and gimmicks, but it's probably a good idea to spend that money on other components, and get an adequate case for your use. The following example is an old one, but representative of a good choice. ChiefTech 601-AE Server size tower: 21" high, 19" deep, black or white.  This case is readily available, and is a cheaper cousin to the Antec cases. It comes with or without a power supply, and is usually priced at around $54 without. The case includes two case fans (not the best quality, but sufficient) and two drop-out 3.5 inch bays. CD-ROM and similar drives load from the front, on guides that are included. Not a bad case, for the money. There are many different models and are manufactured by different companies, but the case design is the same. This is a solid, well-built case, and can take a beating. Loaded with all the goodies, they can weigh up to 50 lbs.
got feedback?by KeysCapt 40. Nice to haveOptional Components •Sound Card: A sound card is not necessary for a sit in the corner cruncher but you would want one if you would like to hear any sounds from the computer. Sound cards to not affect crunching times. •Keyboard and Mouse: If you use the pc, then you will want a keyboard and mouse, otherwise they are not necessary. The duo does not affect crunching. •Monitor: Only required if you are going to be doing any activity on the pc. If the machine sits in the corner, then you can either use Remote Desktop in XP Pro to access it or another application that allows you to remotely access a computer. This does not affect crunching. •Media Devices: Floppy drives and cd-rom's aren't required to have a cruncher, but you will need at least a cd-rom to load the operating system. In general they are a good idea to have in case you have any problems. In general, they do not affect crunching times. •Additional Software: Additional software is not required, but of course if you are going to be using the pc, then you will need some other software. Check out the list of helpful programs for TSC and WCG. Additional software running in the background can and will slow down crunching. In order for optimum crunching, avoid running excessive programs in the background and you may want to tweak your services to speed up crunching even further. Because these projects are CPU-intensive, a program to monitor your system temperatures is a nice addition. You can find some freeware software, such as Motherboard Monitor: Presently available here. Just a heads up: Your motherboard must have the appropriate sensors. MBM can monitor fan speeds, voltages and temperatures of several components.
got feedback?by slash  This is an IOGear four-port KVM switch, just one example.
got feedback?by slash   Round cables are usually around $8.00 apiece ... you will probably need three:
got feedback?by KeysCapt 50. Lets build itEveryone has their own preferences to build a PC, but the following is my method which has proven to be successful for me so far. Pre-Assembly: • Arrange all the parts you will need neatly so that you can keep track of them. • Keep all manuals handy as you may need them. • Have all the tools you will need ready (usually just a phillips screwdriver). Assembly: • Take out the motherboard and put it over the case so that you can get an idea of where the standoffs should go in the case. Standoffs are basically little risers which must be aligned in the holes in the case with the holes in the motherboard. The screws will bite into the standoffs to secure the motherboard. Ensure that each hole in the motherboard is aligned with a riser in the case to prevent static shock which can lead your computer to not power on. • Place the motherboard on a flat surface and install the processor and secure it. • Apply the thermal compound to the processor and heatsink as demonstrated in this video. • Install the RAM (Consult the manual here. Most motherboards have requirements for RAM placement.) • Install the motherboard into the case and secure it to the standoffs with the provided screws. Be careful not to press down on the motherboard too much ... it is possible to fracture it if too much pressure is applied. • While the case is clear of any additional cables, follow the instructions in the motherboard manual to connect the power connectors from the case to the headers on the motherboard. • Install the devices into the case such as cd-rom, floppy, hard drive, etc... • Install all the IDE cables neatly. Neatness is important because it ensures proper airflow. If your PC looks like a mess inside, then airflow and cooling will suffer.  Good example:  • Install all the PCI cards. • Make all the power connections. Again, be neat! • Make sure all the fans are installed and are directed to blow the air the right way. In general rear fans are exhaust, front are intake, and side are intake. The CPU fan should blow air on the processor - just think, on a hot day would you rather have a fan blowing air on you or away from you? • Connect all your other equipment - keyboard, mouse, speakers, monitor, etc... • Connect the power cord from the socket to the power supply. • Fire the system up while making sure that all the fans are running and blowing air in the proper directions. • The system should POST. When you see the video come on the screen, press DEL on your keyboard (it may be another key but read the prompts on the screen) to enter the BIOS and make sure that your hardware is being recognized properly and the FSB is properly set. If your system does not POST and you hear various beeping sounds, check your motherboard manual for what the beeping sounds mean and then proceed to correct the error from there. •You can now begin to do a clean install of your operating system. For Windows XP, you can follow the FAQ in the XP FAQ. • After you load your OS, install all new and updated drivers required for your hardware. You can obtain the latest drivers from the manufacturers websites. • Viola! You just built your very own PC!
got feedback?by slash  has constructed an excellent build-it-yourself tutorial with a complete set of photos as he put his own new machine together.See it here: »Build Your Own System got feedback?by KeysCapt If you have any recommendations, feel free to submit a detailed explanation of why you recommend a product and its specifications. got feedback?by slash  Some other considerations are PCI or AGP video slots, the number of PCI slots for add-ons (like sound cards) and size. The motherboard must be designed to fit in the case, or the case large enough to accommodate the MoBo. Some boards have on-board sound, and some on-board video. Many have on-board NIC's (Network Interface Cards) as well as USB 2.0 ports, Firewire IEEE294 ports, etc. You can always ask in the forums, see what others are using, and/or do some research on your own. Some good references are: Motherboards.Org NewEgg PC Stats Motherboardexpress.com
got feedback?by KeysCapt In general, you do not want to skimp on buying cheap RAM since it can decrease stability. Some recommended brands of memory are:
got feedback?by slash The highest quality video cards can set you back as much as $1000+ but if you aren't a gamer or graphics guru, there is no need for it. Most motherboards come with some form of on-board video, and that may be all you need for basic functions and displays. Choosing a video card approaches science in its complexity. See HERE for some examples.
got feedback?by slash Here too, many motherboards come with onboard sound, so if you are not an audiophile, that may suffice. If you listen to music a lot, then you would want a dedicated sound card. See Wikipedia Sound Card for some expanded info. got feedback?by KeysCapt 67. DrivesIf just a cruncher, you could probably install a 40 Gig 7200 RPM drive for approximately $85, and it would serve you well. You can, of course, get away with smaller, slower drives if you have them hanging around, but at the expense of some speed. If this is to be your primary machine, then you probably want to put a large-capacity drive into it, especially if you will be downloading MP3's, etc. Look into larger capacity drives such as 130GB and larger. Also look into SATA drive systems if your motherboard supports it, and most now do.
got feedback?by KeysCapt The BOINC website actually had some information relative to running BOINC on a machine without a hard drive.
Direct download: »www.schreiter.info/download/boin···.4.0.zip More detailed discussion here: »gocoding.com/page.php?al=petousb
got feedback?by KeysCapt 70. Potential ProblemsFor example: Say you have a 2 GHz Pentium 4 that is designed to be run on a 133 MHz bus, but it is only being run at 100 MHz. The clock speed of the processor is determined by multiplying the FSB by the multiplier (each processor has a multiplier that cannot be changed and determines the speed of the chip)500 MHz is a pretty significant loss of crunching power and you do not want to make that mistake. Overclocking: Overclocking is running the FSB higher than what the processor is engineered to run at. If you have a processor that is designed to run at 133 MHz and you have the FSB set anything above that, the processor will be overclocked. Generally overclocking by modest amounts is safe provided that you have good cooling. Disclaimer: Overclocking will void your warranties and can damage your processor if the proper precautions are not taken. More discussion on this topic here: »www.pcstats.com/articleview.cfm?···eID=1352
got feedback?by slash
got feedback?by slash There are many potential causes for this, but the more common are: • All components not seated properly. Check to make sure that everything you've installed is seated completely. RAM sticks need to be firmly pressed into position, so that the plastic locks pop up to secure them. Audio/Video cards need to be securely seated in their slots. Check all cables, connectors and plugs. • Power switch actually connected to motherboard? Don't laugh ... The buttons and LED's on the front of the case do not magically work, there are connections that must be made to the proper receptacles on the motherboard. To determine the proper way to connect the wires, follow the instructions in the motherboard manual. Check and double-check to make sure that the connections are plugged into the proper places. Some reasons for the buttons and/or LED's not functioning properly included reversed polarity and making the connections to the wrong plugs. There have been numerous incidents where someone wasn't sure how to connect the wire leads from the case to the motherboard - or what their purpose was.  The case power leads can be seen in the graphic above.  Another, closer view
got feedback?by KeysCapt 80. Miscellaneous Info
AMD chips are notorious for running on the warm side so it is necessary to make sure they are properly cooled to avoid instability which can be the result of excessive heat. Liquid Cooling has become fairly popular in high-end machines, and is quite safe. There is a vast array of cooling components available now. See for example: »www.pcstats.com/articlesearch.cf···ort=date The most important part of cooling is the heatsink and fan combination. The stock retail boxes of both AMD and Intel chips come with a heatsink fan (HSF) combination. The HSF units that the chips come with are not the best but are good enough to get the job done. For AMD chips buying your own HSF is recommended, but for Intel, the included fan is fine. To obtain the best cooling results make sure that the thermal compound is properly applied to the core of the CPU and the HSF; the steps can be found here. After you get the HSF unit installed, next come the case fans. Any front fans on your case should be intake; rear fans exhaust. Any fans on the side (blowholes) should be intake as well. It is important to try to balance the amount of air taken into the case with the amount of air being removed. In other words, you do not want to have 4 intake fans and 1 exhaust; try to have at least one intake and one exhaust. The fan on the heatsink should be blowing air on the processor and not away from it. For a diagram of proper case airflow, see the following picture from AMD's guide to cooling. This also applies to Intel based systems.  Proper temperatures vary between systems but in general the case temperature (as reported by the onboard sensors) should be a few degrees celsius above room temperature. The temperature of the processor for AMD's should be in the mid-40's C ideally but can go to the mid-50's C without difficulty. Intel chips should run in the low to mid 40's C but unless you get above 50 C, do not worry. Of course, the lower the temperature is the better.
got feedback?by slash I was recently building another system, and I realized that the miscellaneous power leads that come with the case ... speaker, power, reset, hard drive LED, etc. were of the wrong configuration. That is, one plug had three conductors when I needed only two to hook up to the motherboard. Luckily, I had an old computer sitting around, and I was able to scavenge the power connectors from it, and adapt them to my new machine. Other items like slot covers and even LEDs can come in handy.
got feedback?by KeysCapt If the thermal compound is not applied properly, the cooling will not be as efficient which can result in instability. There's a detailed description of how to use this product here. got feedback?Recommend link to http://www.arcticsilver.com/instructions.htm to link to proper product/CPU type as they seem to differ in application. The original link points to a broken page as of now. 2013-01-22 20:06:25 (ayoustic by slash The purpose of thermal grease, thermal compound, or Arctic Silver is to facilitate the exchange of heat from the CPU to the heat sink. Your CPU thinks of it as that cool, wet washcloth your mother used to put on your forehead. The Intel processors do not generally require thermal compound. Some great information on lapping a heatsink, can be found here and here
got feedback?by KeysCapt 90. Useful Links•Building a PC Part 1 - Tom's Hardware Guide to Building a PC •Building a PC Part 2 - Tom's Hardware Guide to Building a PC •Newegg.com - A great online vendor with a good reputation, good prices, and a wide selection. •Pricewatch.com - A place to research the cheapest prices of all sorts of computer components. •TigerDirect.com - Another online vendor with good prices and a wide selection.
got feedback?by Lilly4 •SharkyExtreme •StorageReview •PC Stats •Tom's Hardware Thanks to Dersgniw for suggesting these links. got feedback?by slash
To find the lowest prices, check out the following:
These are just a few online stores. Remember - you can always check Reseller Ratings to see feedback about the site you are purchasing from.
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