Should You Build Your Own PC?
Mark Dodd
Many people are intimidated by the inside of a computer case.
At first glance all those wires and components look confusing
and impossibly high-tech. The thought of actually putting all
the parts together may seem impossible.
Not to worry! Even though they are the product of advanced
technology, the various components of PCs fit together with
relatively simple connections. Putting together a PC is about
as complicated as repairing a toaster. If you can use a
screwdriver and follow simple instructions, you can build your
own PC.
Advantages
You are probably asking yourself why anyone would bother to
build their own PC. After all, you can buy a cheap computer in
almost any retail store. If cost is your only consideration,
you are probably better off buying one of those cheap machines.
But if you have special requirements for software or hardware,
building your own PC gives you total control over the quality
of the components.
You can save some money too. Although you probably can't match
the price of the cheapest preassembled PCs, once you start
asking for customized hardware installation the cost of
building your own computer becomes cheaper. And don't forget --
those super cheap PCs are bare-boned systems. Unless you only
need a computer for basic word processing and e-mail, you will
probably have to upgrade.
Building your own PC is a great learning experience. You will
gain better understanding of how the various components work
together - knowledge that can be useful when troubleshooting.
If your computer ever breaks down you may be able to pinpoint
and fix the problem yourself, saving on those expensive service
bills.
Disadvantages
The major disadvantage in building your own PC is that you
don't get a system wide warranty. For example, if a
malfunctioning motherboard fries your memory chips, you may be
unable to get compensated for the damaged memory. If something
like this happens with a store-bought system you could probably
get the computer repaired under the warranty.
However, if you buy all the components at the same time and
from the same retailer, they may be more likely to compensate
you for this kind of situation.
Getting the Best
You are pretty well guaranteed to get the best computer when
you build your own system. Big retailers often use cheaper OEM
(Original Equipment Manufacturer) components to cut down on
costs. Components like these can compromise the performance of
a computer system. Although you can buy OEM components retail,
the trade-off in reliability and stability is usually not worth
it. Brand name components are usually just a bit more expensive
and well worth the cost for the extra performance they offer.
The Bottom Line
Building your own PC has a lot to offer. You'll be assured of
getting the best components available which translates as the
best and most reliable computer for the money. You will learn a
lot about computer components and how to choose parts that offer
the best performance. When it comes to servicing your computer
you may be able to pinpoint the problem yourself and replace
the problem parts.
Don't be worried about the task of connecting the computer
components together. Many of the internal connections are
molded so that it is impossible to fit them together the wrong
way. If you have ever assembled a child's toy you are more than
capable of assembling a computer!
About The Author: Mark Dodd is a computer technician with 14
years in the field. Mark has an online blog at
http://www.buildacomputerhome.com
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