Building a custom PC isn’t like cleaning a messy room; you can’t simply start anywhere and keep darting around until you’re done. Pretty much universally, DIY builders begin by assembling what is called the platform: The motherboard, CPU, DRAM, and graphics card. These parts can be clicked, clacked, screwed, or otherwise joined together and tested before placing into the case -- just connect a power supply.

This ability to test before placing into the case is lucky, because, especially for less experienced PC builders, the potential for error is pretty significant.
We will look at some of the major points of platform building, with attention to the parts that are most easily goofed.
 
How to install Motherboard

The good news about CPUs is that most come with some instruction literally etched into them -- an arrow on one corner of the CPU guides custom PC builders to align it with another arrow on the CPU socket.

The thing about CPUs that PC builders have to be careful with are the pins. CPU pins are not built tough, and they are easy to bend out of shape. You don’t want to be in a rush when you are installing the CPU, and you want to make sure to use as light a touch as possible. The CPU socket is a Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) socket. This means that the CPU must actually fall into place under its own weight--no manual force should be applied.
 
How to install CPU

Thermal interface material (TIM) is a grease or putty like substance applied between the CPU and its cooler for heat transfer. Obviously, this step could spiral into a mess if the builder isn’t careful. Pro tip: Simply apply a small portion of TIM to the middle of the heat sink -- it will warm and spread as the system is used.

Clipped-on and pinned-on CPU coolers are available, and their installation specifics may vary. Screw-on coolers are a good choice for those nervous about bending fragile pins.
 

Memory (RAM) only fits into its slot one way. Backwards modules cannot be fully inserted. Check the notch in the module’s contact area against the slot’s key. This is a step that will require some manual pressure.

How to install RAM

Putting together a custom PC can seem very challenging to a first time builder. DIY PC assemblers should do enough research and reading so that they feel confident in their grasp of the process before they begin. The manuals that come with your PC components as well as online sources can provide guidance.
We do not have the space here to detail each and every step of assembly, but we hope we have forewarned you of some of the trickier parts.
 

Our staff of seasoned PC experts are here to answer your questions about PC assembly. As a matter of fact, the gear-up.me staff is capable of completely assembiling and testing your custom PC for you in-house with the components you buy through our product pages.

If you are interested in our full service PC assembly and testing, or you have questions about DIY assembly, please reach out to us @ support@gear-up.me.