If you’re looking for a simple and affordable way to build your own computer, you might be wondering what are the minimum parts you need to make it work. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to build a computer with the basic components that are essential for any PC.
What are the Basic Parts of a Computer?
Every computer comprises 5 basic parts⁶, namely:
- Motherboard: This is the main circuit board that connects all the other parts of the computer. It determines the type and number of components that can be used with the system².
- CPU: This is the brain of the computer that processes all the data and instructions. It affects how fast the system is and what kind of tasks it can handle².
- RAM: This is the memory that stores the data and programs that are currently in use by the CPU. It impacts the performance and multitasking ability of the system².
- Storage: This is where you store all your files and programs permanently. It can be either a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD). SSDs are faster and more reliable than HDDs, but also more expensive².
- Power Supply: This is the device that converts the AC power from the wall outlet into DC power that can be used by the computer components. It needs to have enough wattage and connectors to support all the parts of the system².
These are the minimum parts for a working computer, but you’ll also need some other components to make it functional and usable, such as:
- Case: This is what holds all the parts together and protects them from dust and damage. It also affects the cooling and aesthetics of the system. You need to choose a case that fits your motherboard size and has enough space for your components².
- Monitor: This is the device that displays the output of your computer. You need to connect it to your motherboard or graphics card (if you have one) with a cable. You can choose a monitor based on its size, resolution, refresh rate, and other features⁴.
- Keyboard and Mouse: These are the input devices that allow you to interact with your computer. You need to connect them to your motherboard or case with a cable or wirelessly. You can choose a keyboard and mouse based on their design, comfort, and functionality⁴.
How to Build a Computer with the Minimum Parts
Now that you know what are the basic parts of a computer, let’s see how to build one with them. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Prepare your workspace: Find a clean, spacious, and well-lit area where you can work on your computer. Gather all your parts and tools, such as a screwdriver, an anti-static wrist strap, and some zip ties. Make sure you’re grounded by touching a metal object or wearing an anti-static wrist strap to avoid damaging your components with static electricity⁵.
- Install the power supply: anywhere really, like we insinuated, there is no case here
- Install the motherboard standoffs: These are small metal screws that raise your motherboard above the case to prevent short circuits. Check your case manual and motherboard layout to see where you need to install them. Screw them into the corresponding holes in your case⁵/bench. (This step is not necessary, you can put your motherboard on its cardboard box although we don’t recommend)
- Install the motherboard: Carefully place your motherboard over the standoffs and align it with the I/O shield and screw holes. Secure it with screws, but don’t overtighten them. Connect your power supply cables to your motherboard, following your manuals for guidance⁵.
- Install the CPU: Open the CPU socket on your motherboard by lifting its lever or socket and insert the CPU safely making sure you don’t damage either the CPU or motherboard.
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- Install the CPU cooler: Depending on your CPU and cooler, you may need to apply some thermal paste on top of your CPU to help transfer heat to the cooler. Attach your cooler to your CPU socket and secure it with screws or clips. Connect your cooler fan to your motherboard.
- Install the RAM: Open the RAM slots on your motherboard by pushing down their side clips. Align your RAM modules with the slots and push them down firmly until they click into place. Make sure they are fully seated and locked by the clips.
- Install the storage: Depending on your case and storage type, you may need to mount your storage drive into a drive bay, a drive cage, or a drive tray. Secure it with screws or tool-less mechanisms. Connect your power supply and motherboard cables to your storage drive.
- Connect everything else: Connect your monitor, keyboard, mouse, and any other peripherals to your computer. Plug in your power cord and turn on your power supply switch. Press the power button on your case and see if everything works. If not, troubleshoot the problem by checking your connections and manuals.
Congratulations! You’ve just built a computer with the minimum parts. You can now install an operating system and enjoy using your new PC.
Conclusion
Building a computer with the minimum parts is not as hard as it may seem. You just need to have the basic components that are essential for any PC, such as a motherboard, a CPU, a RAM, a storage drive, and a power supply. You also need some other components to make it functional and usable, such as a case, a monitor, a keyboard, and a mouse. By following the steps we’ve outlined in this blog post, you can easily build your own computer with the minimum parts and save money and time.
We hope you found this blog post helpful and informative. If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to leave a comment below or contact us at Grey PC. We’re always happy to help you with your PC needs.
Thank you for reading and happy building!