Many people are intimidated by a look inside a computer case. At first glance all those
wires and components can look terrifyingly complex. Actually having to put them all together yourself may seem
impossible.
Not to worry! Even though they are the products of advanced technology, the various components of a personal computer (PC)
fit together with relatively simple connections. If you can use a screwdriver and follow simple instructions, you can build your
own PC.
Advantages To Building A Computer
You are probably asking yourself why anyone would bother to build a PC. After all, you can buy a cheap computer in almost any
retail store. If cost is your only consideration, you probably are better off buying one of those cheap machines. But if you have any
special requirements for software or hardware, youll benefit from the total control over the type and quality of components you get
from building your own PC.
You can save some money, too. Although you probably can't match the price of the cheapest
preassembled PC, once you begin adding on the inevitable customized hardware, the costs go up anyway, and building your own
computer starts looking cheaper. And don't forget--those super-cheap PCs are bare-boned systems. Unless you need a computer only for
basic word processing and e-mail, you will probably have to upgrade anyway.
Building your own PC can be a great learning experience. You will gain a better understanding of how the various components
work together, knowledge that can be useful for troubleshooting. If your computer ever breaks down, you may be able to pinpoint the
problem and fix it yourself, saving money on expensive repair bills.
Disadvantages
The major disadvantage in building your own PC is that you don't get a system-wide warranty. For example, if a malfunctioning
motherboard fries your memory chips, you may not be able to get compensation for the damaged memory. If something like this happens
with a store-bought system you could probably get the computer repaired under the warranty.
However, if you buy all the components at the same time from the same retailer, you are more likely to be compensated for this
kind of situation.
Getting the Best
You are pretty well guaranteed to get the best computer when you build your own system. Big retailers often use cheaper OEM
(Original Equipment Manufacturer) components to cut down on costs. Components like these can compromise the performance of a computer
system. Although you can buy OEM components retail, the trade-off in reliability and stability is usually not worth it. Brand name
components are just a bit more expensive, but theyre well worth the cost.
The Bottom Line
Building your own PC has a lot to offer. You'll be assured of getting the best components available, which translates to the
best and most reliable computer for your money. You will learn about computer components and how to choose parts with the best
performance. When it comes to servicing your computer, you may be able to pinpoint the problem yourself and replace the malfunctioning
part.
Don't be intimidated by the task of connecting the computer components together. Many of the internal connections are molded
so that it is impossible to fit them together the wrong way. If you have ever assembled a child's toy, you are more than capable of
assembling a computer.
Oh, and one final advantage. The bragging rights of telling your friends that you built your own
computer!
