Have you ever wanted to build your own computer, but had absolutely no idea where to start? Fret not! Raymond Payne gives you the inside scoop on how to build a working computer from the ground up. This presentation provides you with some of the most basic knowledge: what hardware goes into a computer. Check back later for more lessons on building a computer.

1. HOW TO BUILD A
COMPUTER:
HARDWARE BASICS
Raymond Payne

2. BASIC PARTS
 In order to successfully build
a computer, you need a few
standard parts 
 Processor (CPU)
 Motherboard
 RAM
 Graphics Card
 Hard Drive(s)
 Optical Drive
 Case
 Power Supply

3. What is the CPU
(Processor)?
The processor completes any task
you give to the computer. Often
confused with the motherboard, the
CPU is the “brain” of the computer.
Stronger CPUs can carry out more
tasks with better efficiency.
That being said, the CPU is one of
the most expensive components to
building a machine. Depending on
your needs, you can decide whether
you need a high or low end model.
Gamers and graphic designers
typically need a high end CPU.

4. The Motherboard
The motherboard is like the “heart” of
the computer. I connects each of the
computer’s components to one
another and contains many of the
machine’s main features including
USB ports, expansion card slots, and
ultimately determines how big the
computer will be.
Motherboards also contribute to
whether you can build a low,
medium, or high quality machine.

5. RAM
Random Access Memory (RAM)
functions as the computer’s short-
term memory. RAM stores quick-
access data used to help programs
run as smooth as possible.
Users who run many programs at
once need more RAM. So again,
graphic designers, gamers, web
developers, and general heavy
program users are going to need
high caliber RAM.

6. Graphics Card (GPU)
The GPU is specifically designed to
process graphics. This is connected
to the monitor and accurately
displays content. 3D games generally
need a dedicated GPU card to create
complex images.

7. Hard Drive(s)
Probably one of the most discussed
computer parts, the hard drive stores all
of the computer’s data. This includes
the operating system, documents,
music, movies, programs, and more.
How much data you would like to store
on your computer will determine which
size hard drive you will need to buy.
More data of course means a larger
hard drive.
Different types of hard drives also affect
the overall speed of the computer.

8. Optical Drive
The CD or DVD drive basically
makes up the optical drive. These
days, not every computer will have or
need an optical drive. Many ultra
books lack an optical drive for the
sake of portability and appearance.
However, CD and DVD drives
haven’t quite gone the way of the
floppy and are generally
recommended for DIY standing
desktop computers.

9. Case
The case holds the computer together.
It’s like the skeletal frame and “skin” of
the computer. Cases come in many
different designs. Some even include
LED lights for added flair.
The case is less about how the
computer will run and more about
personal preference. So feel free to get
creative or shop around for the perfect
fit.
*Note: the case DOES have to fit
whatever goes inside. So keep in mind
how big your hard drive and
motherboard are before buying a case.

10. Power Supply
The power supply is exactly what it
sounds like. It directs electricity to the
other components in the machine,
turning them on. High performance
computers will need a higher wattage
power supply than a lower
performance one.
This is the very last thing you shop
for after you figure out what exactly is
going into the computer.

11. IS THAT IT?
 These are the very basic components to building a computer from
the ground up. Of course, you can later determine whether you’d
like to install a Wi-Fi card or internal SD card.
 Shop around for a quality monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Some
monitors can be used for the computer and television.
 Do you need Bluetooth capabilities? Or perhaps your high-
performance machine will need extra fans for better cooling?
 Definitely take some time to think about the type of computer you
need, what you will be using it for, and how you would like it to
function.

12. STAY TUNED
Keep an eye out for the
next lesson on building a
computer, coming soon.
Good luck!