Assemble the PC yourself - how it works

If you build the home computer yourself, you save a lot of money. The individual parts are often significantly cheaper than a complete PC. We show you how you can build a PC yourself.

Build your own PC: You need these components

• You need a case to install the components. Pay attention to the correct form factor for your project.
• The mainboard is often referred to as the "motherboard" and is the central element of your PC. Most models include a sound card.
• A processor is essential. Most models include a graphics unit, which can be sufficient for less complex graphics applications. A cooler is usually included.
• If you need more power - for example for video games - you should also get a graphics card.
• You definitely need RAM.
• All modules receive power from the power supply. Make sure that it provides enough power for your configuration.
• At least one hard disk and / or an SSD must be installed to install the operating system and save data.
• An operating system is required to use the PC. Normal users access Windows.
• Depending on your budget and requirements, you can also buy a WLAN module, a dedicated sound card, fans or a DVD drive, for example. Remember that you also need peripherals such as a mouse and keyboard.
• You can use a PC configurator to check whether your selected components work together. You can find more information on sensible PC configurations using the link.

Build your own PC - the preparation

Once you have all the components together, it's time to assemble - after you have prepared yourself accordingly.

• Do not build the PC on a carpet, this can cause electrostatics. Instead, clear a table with enough space.
• You should also discharge yourself before going to work. For example, touch a heater.
• Prepare a small Phillips screwdriver.

Build PC yourself - install CPU and cooler

The components are inserted into the mainboard. Check the manual to identify the appropriate slots.

• Remove the protective plastic over the CPU slot on the mainboard and lift the bracket.
• Carefully take the processor (CPU) by the sides and insert it. Warning: it can only be used in a certain direction. Pay attention to the small triangle marking on the mainboard and CPU - if these are in the same corner, all pins fit into the socket. Close the strap to secure the processor.
• Put some thermal grease (usually supplied) on the top of the processor and spread it carefully and thinly. Note: With boxed CPUs, thermal paste is sometimes already attached to the fan - however, this is often criticized in specialist circles because of its supposedly low quality. If you prefer to use a branded product, you can remove the paste already applied with a little alcohol.
• Now the cooler can be installed. The process differs from model to model. Take a look at the cooler manual and take a look at our helpful picture gallery.
• Now plug the cable of the cooler into the corresponding connector on your motherboard. The manual will help you find the slot.

Build your own PC - the main memory (RAM)

• The memory latches are simply inserted into the corresponding slots until they have snapped into place.
• So that the memory can be used optimally, it must be in the correct slots.
• The slots are usually divided into two colors. Place two RAM sticks in slots of the same color.

Build the PC yourself - screw the mainboard into the case

• Now it's time to build the mainboard into the case. To do this, you must first remove the rear cover on the housing and replace it with the cover supplied with the motherboard.
• Identify the places inside the case where the screws for your motherboard fit. Now screw in the spacer screws.
• The mainboard is then placed on the spacer screws so that the connections at the back fit through the cover previously inserted. Now screw the motherboard with the spacer screws.
• Now connect the various cables of the housing to the corresponding slots on the notebook. This step is important so that, for example, the "On" switch really starts up the computer. Use the mainboard manual as a guide.

Build your own PC - use the power supply

• The power supply is plugged into the space provided in the housing and screwed tight.
• The power supply must also be connected to the motherboard in accordance with the manual.
• Of course, leave the power supply switched off while you are still tinkering. Only switch it on when you really want to start up the PC.

Build your own PC: Install the hard disk / SSD

• The installation of an SSD differs slightly from the installation of a mechanical hard disk.
• Most of the housings have rails that the storage medium simply has to be inserted into.
• The hard drives and SSDs must then be connected to the mainboard and the power supply.

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Build the PC yourself: Install the graphics card

• Find the PCIe slot in which your graphics card is to be inserted. Now remove the placeholder cover for the graphics card connections on the back of the housing.
• Insert the graphics card until it clicks into place. Screw the connection board to the housing.
• Then the graphics card must be wired to the power supply if you need an additional power source. Inexpensive or energy-saving GPUs under 75 watts get their power from the PCIe slot on the mainboard without additional cables.

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Build your own PC - final steps

• Now connect the computer with the power supply and start it with the power button.
• If the computer starts up, you can install your operating system by inserting the CD or inserting the USB stick and starting it up again.
• Install all drivers and then check whether all hardware elements are correctly recognized. We recommend CPU-Z.
• If the computer does not start up, make sure that all cables are connected correctly. If you are not sure, remove the plugs and plug them in again following the manual.