Making your own PC is a great way for tech enthusiasts to tap into their crafty side and design a gadget that perfectly meets their needs. But, how do you even begin to create something with such a complex structure? The best way to start is by learning all about the necessary internal hardware. Here are some of the essential components of building your own computer.
Central Processing Unit
The most important part of your computer is the central processing unit (CPU). Think of the CPU as the “brain” of your device. This mechanism works with other internal components to receive information and disperse instructions.
There are a few things to keep in mind while choosing a CPU. A processer with higher gigahertz (GHz) will generally run faster than ones with lower levels. That said, CPUs with more GHz require more energy, which can cause your computer to overheat without the right airflow.
Memory
No matter the purpose of your homemade PC, all computers need memory (RAM) to perform basic functions. Your system needs as much space as possible to store data, so adding memory can dramatically boost your computer’s performance.
As a basic rule of thumb, the more your computer does, the more RAM it needs. Almost all operations draw from the memory, from moving your cursor to opening new tabs on a window. Adding memory is an easy and affordable way to ensure that your computer can run several complex applications.
Storage
Another essential component of building your own computer is your storage drive. This mechanism saves and secures all of your data for long-term use. Anything you can download and save to access later goes to your storage, like files, games, and operating systems.
You have two main options when it comes to storage drives: hard disk drives (HDD) and solid-state drives (SSD). HHDs typically give you more storage space, but many consider them “outdated.” SSDs, on the other hand, have faster access times and are far more energy-efficient, making them the choice storage options for computer experts.
Motherboard
No computer is complete without a motherboard to tie everything together. The motherboard is a large circuit board that connects all of your device’s components. This mechanism lets all of the hardware within your PC “talk” to each other.
There are several types of printed circuit boards that you can use, but the right one for your computer is mainly dependent on your CPU. Some processors work best with different kinds of motherboards, so it’s important to choose your hardware wisely.
Now that you know about some integral pieces of your computer, you can start the building process. Whether you’re using this PC for gaming, streaming, or general internet use, you can rest easy knowing that you have the information necessary to make good decisions about your device.
