PC Building Guide

Introduction

• Welcome to the PC building guide.
• Covers building and setting up a PC: installing OS, drivers, XMP profile, and other settings.
• Aimed at beginners, providing step-by-step instructions.

Understanding PC Components

Main Components

1. CPU (Central Processing Unit)
   • Brain of the PC
   • Processes and executes instructions
   • Sits on the motherboard socket
2. Motherboard
   • Backbone of the computer
   • Connects all components
   • Sizes: Mini ITX to Extended ATX
   • Different socket types and chipsets
3. Memory (RAM) - Random Access Memory
   • Essential for performance
   • Stores data temporarily for quick access
   • Important: Frequency and CL timing
   • Recommendation: At least 3200 MHz CL-16, 16GB for gaming
   • XMP profile for optimized performance
4. CPU Cooler
   • Keeps CPU cool
   • Stock coolers available with some CPUs (esp. AMD)
   • Optional coolers for better performance/aesthetics
5. GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
   • Provides graphics
   • Affects gaming performance and rendering speed
   • Example: AMD RX6800
6. Power Supply Unit (PSU)
   • Provides power to all components
   • Recommendation: Buy at least 100W more than needed
   • Types: Non-modular, Semi-modular, Fully-modular
7. Storage
   • Types: M.2 SSDs, 2.5 inch SSDs, Hard Drives
   • Recommendation: At least one M.2 or SSD for OS and applications
8. Case
   • Holds all components
   • Offers airflow and support for fans/radiators

Tools and Additional Items

• Phillips Head Screwdriver
• Magnetic Work Mat
• Empty USB Drive (8GB or more)
• Windows Key

Starting the Build

Preparing the Motherboard

1. Take out motherboard and its accessories
2. Gather necessary items: front panel connector extension, SATA cables, WiFi extender, M.2 installation screw, I/O shield
3. Remove motherboard from anti-static bag carefully
4. Place motherboard on its box

Installing the CPU

• Align CPU triangles with motherboard socket triangles
• AMD CPU: Lift lever, let CPU fall into place, secure lever
• Intel CPU: Slide lever, align CPU, secure cover, remove black cover
• Threadripper CPU: Use installation tool, loosen screws in order 3-2-1 to open socket, slide and secure CPU

Installing Memory (RAM)

• Align memory stick gap with notch in dimm slots
• 2 sticks: Use slots A2 and B2

Installing M.2 SSD

• Locate M.2 slot (top slot preferred)
• Align notch with gap on M.2 SSD
• Secure with screws and reinstall cover if applicable

Installing CPU Cooler

1. If using stock cooler
   • Remove pre-installed brackets (AMD)
   • Align and secure cooler to motherboard
   • Attach cooler cable to CPU fan header
2. If using AIO cooler
   • Install correct brackets to pump
   • Determine radiator and fan configuration
   • Secure radiator and route tubes and cables

Fan Configuration

Guidelines

• Neutral pressure preferred
• Intake and Exhaust Fans: Ensure balanced airflow
• Fan Positioning: Align fan arrows with airflow direction
• Avoid negative pressure

AIO Orientation

• Top mounting: tubes should face the right side
• Front mounting: tubes at bottom for safety

Installing PSU and Cables

1. Install power supply ensuring vent aligns with case ventilation
2. Connect necessary cables: 24-pin ATX, EPS (CPU), PCIe, SATA, Molex if needed
3. Ensure cables are routed and managed neatly

Installing Storage Devices

Connecting HDD/SSD

• Smaller SATA cable port for data
• Larger SATA power cable port for power
• Insert drives into trays or mounts as applicable

Case Cables

• Connect USB 3, USB, Audio, USB-C to respective headers on the motherboard
• Plug in additional fans and fan hubs if needed

Graphics Card Installation

• Insert GPU into top PCIe slot
• Secure with screws and plug in PCIe cables from PSU

First Boot

• Connect power cable, plug in monitor, keyboard, mouse
• Boot PC: ensure BIOS displays
• Troubleshooting if no display

Installing Windows

1. Use another PC to download Windows ISO onto USB drive
2. Boot new PC with USB drive inserted
3. Follow on-screen instructions to install OS
4. Enter or skip product key (to be activated later)
5. Format and select drive for OS installation

Post-Installation

Installing Drivers

• Download drivers from motherboard and component manufacturers’ websites
• Transfer drivers to new PC and install

Enabling XMP Profile

• Enter BIOS: Enable XMP Profile 1
• Save settings and restart
• Verify memory speed in Task Manager

Final Settings

• Configure power plan: High Performance
• Format and activate additional storage drives
• Set monitor refresh rate: Advanced Display Settings > Monitor Tab

Conclusion

• Final steps and congratulations on building the PC!
• Additional tips on using the Windows setup and other settings.