 Just
look inside a computer case. At first glance, all those wires and
components can look terrifyingly complex. And thinking about putting
them all together by yourself may seem impossible.
Not to worry! Even though they are the products of advanced
technology, the various pieces of a personal computer (PC) fit together
with simple connections. If you can use a screwdriver and follow simple
instructions, you can build your own PC.
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.
Advantages Of Building Your Own
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, you’ll 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. Suddenly
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.
You are virtually 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 yourself, the trade-off in
reliability and stability is usually not worth it. Brand name
components are just a bit more expensive, but are well worth the cost.
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 whole computer
repaired under the warranty.
However, if you buy all your components at the same time from the
same retailer, you are more likely to be compensated for this kind of
situation.
Time is, of course, a factor. But it is educational time. And if you enjoy tinkering at all, it counts as fun time as well.
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 solve and fix the
problem yourself.
Oh, and one final advantage. The bragging rights of telling your friends that you built your own computer. Priceless!
About the author:
Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer, and web developer. Visit http://www.build-computer-now.com to learn more about this fascinating subject.
Copyright 2005 Ron King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact.
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