Which parts do you need to build a PC?
Building your own PC is a rewarding project for both tech enthusiasts and casual users. Whether aiming for a high-performance gaming rig, a reliable workstation, or a media center, knowing the key components is essential.
Here's a quick guide to what you'll need, with product affiliate links for reference.
1. Processor (CPU): The brain of the computer that performs calculations and executes tasks.
2. Motherboard: It Connects all the components together, including CPU, RAM, storage, and peripherals.
3. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): It handles graphics rendering and is essential for gaming, video editing, and graphical work.
4. Random Access Memory (RAM): Temporarily stores data that the CPU needs frequently for quick access.
5. Storage Drives:
- Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Offers large storage capacity at a lower cost but with slower speeds compared to SSDs.
- Solid State Drive (SSD): Provides faster data access times than HDDs due to no moving parts, making them ideal for the operating system and frequently used applications.
6. Power Supply Unit (PSU): It Supplies power to all components in the PC.
7. Computer Case (Cabinet): Encloses and protects all the components and provides a framework for their installation.
8. Cooling System
- CPU Cooler : It Keeps the processor from overheating.
- Case Fans: Help maintain airflow within the computer case.
- Liquid Cooling System: An alternative to air cooling for better temperature control.
9. UPS Invertor : Provides backup power to a computer or other electronic equipment in case of a power outage or irregularities in the main power supply.
10. Monitor: Displays output from the PC.
11. Keyboard: Input device for typing.
12. Mouse: Input device for navigation.
13. Speakers : For audio output.
14. Headphones: For audio output in the Ear.
15. Webcam: For video recording, Live Streaming or conferencing.
16. Printers/Scanners: For document processing.
17. Expansion Cards: These are additional cards that can be added to the motherboard to enhance functionality, such as sound cards, network interface cards (NICs), or additional USB/FireWire ports.
18. Optical Drives: Though less common now, these drives read and write data from CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs.
19. Cables and Connectors: Various cables (SATA, power cables, USB, HDMI, etc.) used to connect components together.
20. Operating System (OS): A Software that manages computer hardware and provides services for computer programs. Common OS include Windows, macOS, and various distributions of Linux.
This list covers the 20 primary components, but there are many more specialized components available for specific needs or preferences in building a PC.