How to build your own PC: A complete step-by-step guide
Whether you’re embarking on your first PC build or you’re a veteran, our in-depth PC building guide has something for everyone
So, you’ve started your first steps and are hungry for more. Now’s the fun part – you get to open up your new PC case and begin placing all of the core components inside. To do so, you’ll want to remove the left side panel, as this offers the most amount of space to manoeuvre. You’ll also want to make sure to do the following steps in a well-lit room.
How to build your own PC: Installing the motherboard and power supply
Now that your motherboard is fitted with RAM and a CPU, we have to place it inside the PC case. First, you’ll want to identify the rear of the motherboard, and align all of the ports and connections with the backplate of the PC case and fit the motherboard’s rear I/O shield (a simple push in each corner does the trick) and remove any covers from expansion slots you wish to use.
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Next, you’ll need to put your motherboard into position, using all the available mounting points to secure it. Simply make sure every mounting hole sits on top of a standoff – these standoffs look like screws with another screw-thread in the top, and they’ll be supplied with your case, usually pre-installed.
When the motherboard is tightly in position, with the ports pushed through the I/O shield and a standoff hole clearly visible in every screwhole, fix it into place using the screws provided with your case’s screw kit.
Your case will also come with a bunch of cables for connecting the power and reset buttons, LEDs, audio jacks and USB ports – make sure to get these all hooked up, with the cables tidied up neatly.
How to build your own PC: Installing the power supply
The motherboard draws power from the PSU typically using two connectors: an ATX connector and a secondary connector. Modern motherboards use a 24-pin ATX connection. You can’t really miss it as it’s the largest connection on the power supply.
The ATX connector will only plug in one way as it has a small hook and clasp for securely attaching to the motherboard. Once it’s lined up correctly, attach the connection by applying a little downward force until you feel the clasp engage. Give it a gentle tug afterwards to make sure it’s connected properly.
Modern motherboards also need a secondary power connector from the PSU. This will either be a four-pin or an eight-pin connection, depending on your motherboard – make sure to check what type your PSU has as you might have to buy an adaptor. Much like the 24-pin connector, you’ll need to line up the connector the right way round and apply a little bit of force to properly attach it. A satisfying click will let you know when it’s in.
