Assembling any computer – gaming or not – can seem intimidating, but it just requires learning a few basic steps. Nowadays, the DIY approach is the most cost-effective and time-saving way to build a powerful gaming PC. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to put together a gaming PC:
First and foremost, choose your Parts. Select the components that best match your gaming needs. Check for parts compatibility, as some motherboards and CPU will only be compatible with some components. Make sure to research reviews, prices, and benchmark tests to get the best out of your money.
Next, assemble your case. To do this, you’ll require an anti-static wrist band, screwdriver, and your case manual.Start by mounting the power supply, and then position the motherboard. Insert the I/O shield, PCI cards, and Hard Drive. Lastly, secure the cables.
Connect the Hard Drive and Optical Drive. It’s important to remember to apply the proper screws per device. Then, attach the Data and Power cables to control fans and disks. Finally, insert the GPU and CPU into the motherboard and mount the cooler.
Connect cables to the Motherboard. Make sure to use the correct power connectors from the Motherboard’s sheet. Additionally, connect additional fans, SATA Power and Data cables, GPU, and CPU.
Choose a heatsink and coolant. It’s important to select a heatsink and coolant that best suit your Gaming PC’s parts. Then, mount the heat sink, listen for clicks from the lock lever and apply a thermal paste.
Finally, connect the monitor, PSU, all USB devices, and power on the PC. Then, install all the necessary software, such as the Operating System, Drivers, and Updates. Happy gaming!
Essential Peripherals You’ll Need
Building a Gaming PC requires more than a fancy CPU and GPU. All of the accessories and peripherals you need will depend on what type of gaming you’ll be doing. Necessary components include a gaming monitor, a gaming mouse, a gaming keyboard, and a headset.
The monitor is key for providing a great gaming experience. It’s important to get a high refresh rate, especially if you’ll be playing competitive games. If possible, get a monitor with G-Sync or FreeSync technology for optimal performance.
Gaming mice usually have extra buttons and improved sensors for accuracy and precision. They may also be adjustable in size, weight, and more. Moreover, check for a good grip, lighting, and programmable buttons.
On the other hand, gaming keyboards can provide extra programmable keys and enhanced comfort along with additional features such as RGB lighting, swappable keycaps, and function keys. Gaming headsets offer better sound quality, microphone clarity, and comfort – usually at the cost of being not-so- wallet friendly.
Keeping It All Cool
Every gaming PC should have an efficient cooling system. If you are using a closed-loop liquid cooler, you’ll need a custom loop where you’ll need to measure, cut, and connect the tubing. Additionally, you’ll need radiators, fans and reservoirs.
Alternatively, you can opt for an air cooler. Your PC will remain cool with a basic air cooler, but that comes and the cost of being quite loud. Fans are noisy, and the more powerful the PC, the more cooling it’ll need.
Liquid cooling provides the best thermal and acoustic characteristics. There should be a balance between the fan speed and GPU temperature by managing the fan settings of motherboard.
The best fan configuration depends on the case fan size. If there is more than one fan within the chosen case, then setting them up for push-pull airflow which will direct cold air in and hot air out, can utilize the cooling potential within the case.
Choose the Right Software
Gaming PCs must have the right software. Consider increasing the virtual memory to allow games to have a lot of breathing room as they run while relieving RAM pressure. If your PC is running slow, switching your OS to a lightweight version, or using a tool such as Game Booster or Wise Game Booster, can improve your gaming performance.
It’s also essential to have the right backup and recovery system, so you never lose your gaming data. Using a secure backup tool such as Ashampoo Backup, ensures all your important files are backed up at regular intervals. Finally, keep your PC secure with trusted firewalls and antiviruses.
Aesthetic Matters
Your Gaming PC’s exterior should reflect gaming performance as well. There are a plethora of chassis types, case sizes, and colours for builders to choose from to create a truly unique gaming PC.
Colourful PC builds are commonplace today and make your gaming PC truly unique. Many components such as RAM and motherboards come with elaborate RGB lighting making your gaming PC stand out even more.
Your PC build is not complete without a thorough cable management. Good cable management allows airflow in and out of the case and makes your setup look aesthetically pleasing. Few tools are needed in order to control the cables, with either zip ties, adhesive clips, or velcro straps.
Testing Out Your Gaming PC
Once you’ve followed all these steps, it’s time for testing. All you’ll need is an online benchmark tool such as 3DMark, Heaven or Passmark to test CPU and GPU performance.
Finally, it’s best to test all components individually in case there are any issues you need to correct. Check if RAM is working, run the GPU stress tests, and check the temperatures. Constantly monitor your temperatures to make sure the parts remain cool throughout your gaming sessions.
