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Ty Price

Building a computer is fun, affordable, and empowering. It's fun being able to choose all of the parts that will go into your machine, it's cheaper than buying a PC from a manufacturer like Dell or HP, and it's just so darn cool to DIY.

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Building a computer is fun, affordable, and empowering. It's fun being able to choose all of the parts that will go into your machine, it's cheaper than buying a PC from a manufacturer like Dell or HP, and it's just so darn cool to DIY.

This course is for anyone that has ever wanted to build their own computer.

For this course, I purchased all the parts I needed for a new computer. I show you each part, tell you about the features I thought were important, describe other features you may want to look for, demonstrate how to build the entire computer, and then install the necessary operating system and software.

You will go from having no idea what's inside a computer to having a full working computer after this course.

  • Figure out your computer's main purpose
  • Determine which parts you need to buy
  • Compare features and benefits of different makes and models of parts
  • Buy your computer parts from the most reliable sources
  • Put together all of the parts that make up your PC
  • Install a Windows operating system
  • Install anti-virus software
  • Test your built computer is running at optimal temperatures
  • Troubleshoot your build in case something didn't go right on the first try

What operating system do you demonstrate how to install? Windows 7. I am adding a video on how to install Windows 8 and Linux as well.

How much do the parts cost? It depends on what you want to do with your new PC. You can spend anywhere from $300 to $3000 on your build. The first thing to do is to identify the purpose of your computer. Are you going to use it for gaming or video editing, or just basic website browsing and media playback? The more performance your machine is, the more it will cost. We've listed out the following sample configurations in the course:

  • Basic PC ($300)
  • Basic PC ($400)
  • Gaming PC ($464)
  • Gaming PC ($800)
  • Gaming PC ($1500
  • Video Editing PC ($1500)
  • Home Theater PC ($500)

How long will I have access to the videos? Forever :) Your access won't expire</strong>

Do you offer a money-back guarantee? Yes, we have a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you're unhappy for any reason we'll refund 100% of your investment. Of course, if there is anything we can do to help you, we'd love the opportunity to do so first.</strong>

Can I install Mac OS on a computer I build? Yes, the method of actually putting together the computer hardware is independent of which operating system you're installing. However, Mac OS will only work with a very limited set of hardware, so building a "Hackintosh" is outside the scope of this course.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Determine which parts you need to buy
  • Compare features and benefits of different makes and models of parts
  • Buy your computer parts from the most reliable sources
  • Put together all of the parts that make up your pc
  • Install a windows operating system
  • Install anti-virus software
  • Test your built computer is running at optimal temperatures
  • Troubleshoot your build in case something didn't go right on the first try

Syllabus

Getting Started
Follow along step-by-step as I build a brand new computer in this course. I'll show you the parts you'll need, tell you which features to look for, and demonstrate how to put the PC together and install OS and software.
Read more
Computer hardware ranges in features, performance, and price. This video introduces you to the notion that you can spend anywhere from $300 to $3000 on a computer. The price of your build will depend on what you plan on doing with your PC and which performance features are important for you.
Most people build computers for the following types of uses:

  • Basic: Email, Facebook, Music, Photos, Video
  • Gaming: Playing games like Battlefield 3, Crysis 3, Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, etc.
  • Video Editing: Editing video projects and movies
  • Home Theater: Using a PC to stream, download, and playback media to a TV or projector

In this lecture we'll go over all of the necessary components needed to build a computer. We'll also talk about parts you can add for improved performance, but aren't required for the PC to operate.
Similar to buying tires for your car, there are certain aspects of the PC part picking process that you have to get right, and others that will just depend on your personal preference.
In this lecture we'll discuss a computer that can be built for just $300. It would be perfect for anyone that plans on mainly doing email, Facebook, Microsoft Office, listening to music, watching movies, and other basic tasks.

Most of these parts could be swapped out with a similar model from another manufacturer and still be a good computer. This is an example of what you can put together for very little money.
Sample Gaming PC Configurations
Sample Home Theater PC Configuration
Best Places to Buy Parts
What Will You Use Your PC For?
Choosing Parts

Here is an overview of the parts you'll need to buy to build a complete computer. I briefly explain a little about each of the parts I've purchased for my new computer build and why.

Even though technology rapidly advances, the main components and how you put them together hasn't really changed all that much. The process of building a PC is hardly different than it was 10 years ago, and most likely 5-10 years from today.

For instance, modern hard drives have SATA connections. Years ago they had IDE connections. Even though the modern SATA connector looks different and operates at a higher speed, the hard drive still needs to plug into the motherboard via power and data cables.

You can be confident that what you learn here today will remain very relevant in the near future.

A computer case houses all of the computer's parts. Its quality and features have a direct impact on the longevity and convenience of the PC.

A case with a good number of fans (or places to put fans) and cable management features will aid airflow and allow you to properly cool the inside of the case and its components.

Convenience features like front-panel USB or headphone ports, or a tray to set your iPod/smartphone on top of the case, make using your computer a more enjoyable experience.

Things to consider when buying a computer case:

  • Size
  • Expansion Bays
  • Ease of Installation
  • Cooling & Airflow
  • Front Panel Connections
  • Form Factor
  • Upgrade-ability
Check out the "Choosing Parts for Your Computer" PDF below for more info and tips
Popular case manufacturers:
Top Rated Cases on Amazon:
View top 100

Explore Computer Cases in More Detail

Like the name suggests, a power supply plugs into your home's outlet and supplies the power to your motherboard, CPU, and other components.

Things to consider when buying a power supply:

  • Make sure it has enough Watts to run all of the components
  • Higher efficiency ratings mean lower energy costs
  • A modular interface allows you to only use the power cables you need
  • You can compare power supplies based on how loud their fans get
Check out the "Choosing Parts for Your Computer" PDF for more info and tips

Popular Power Supply Manufacturers:

Top Rated Power Supplies on Amazon.com: View Top 100

Explore Power Supplies in More Detail
The motherboard is the main circuit board in your computer. All of the other components plug into it; that is, the CPU, memory, graphics card, hard drive, optical drive, etc. It is an essential item in every computer.

The motherboard has a "socket", which is what the CPU (processor) plugs into. Your motherboard and CPU need to have the same socket type, i.e. LGA 1155, LGA 2011, LGA 1150

Things to consider when buying a motherboard:

  • Socket
  • Chipset
  • PCI Express and PCI Slots
  • Number of USB Ports and Speed
  • SATA and IDE Support
  • Onboard Audio
  • Number of memroy slots and the maximum amount of memory allowed
Check out the "Choosing Parts for Your Computer" PDF below for more info and tips

Popular Motherboard Manufacturers:

Top Rated Motherboards on Amazon.com: View Top 100

Best Selling Motherboards on Amazon.com: View Best Sellers

Newly Released Motherboards on Amazon.com: View New Releases

Exploring Motherboards in More Detail
The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is also known as the processor. It is the main processing chip of the computer which reads and executes program instructions.

A CPU's socket must match the motherboard's socket.

Things to consider when buying a CPU:

  • Socket
  • Clock speed
  • Number of cores
  • Cache
  • Cooling
Check out the "Choosing Parts for Your Computer" PDF below for more info and tips

Two CPU Manufacturers to Choose From:

Top Rated CPU's on Amazon: View Top 100

Newly Released CPU's on Amazon: View New Releases

Exploring CPUs in More Detail
The system memory is often referred to as RAM, which stands for Random Access Memory. It is a temporary storage location used to store data and information.

With everything else held constant, a computer with more memory, i.e 8GB vs 4GB, tends to feel a little more responsive.

Check out the "Choosing Parts for Your Computer" PDF below for more info and tips

Popular Memory Manufacturers:

Top Rated Memory on Amazon.com: View Top 100

Exploring RAM (Memory) in More Detail
A hard drive is where you save all of your user data. The operating system is stored here as well as your pictures, videos, music, documents, programs, etc.

Most computers use mechanical hard drives made up of physical parts. It's becoming increasingly popular, especially in laptops and high-end PCs, to use solid state drives due to their data transfer rates, physical size, weight, and reliability.

Check out the "Choosing Parts for Your Computer" PDF below for more info and tips

Popular Mechanical Hard Drive Manufacturers:

2012 Hard Drive Performance Chart: View Chart

Popular Solid State Hard Drive Manufacturers:

2012 Solid State Drive Performance Chart: View Chart

Top Rated Mechanical Hard Drives on Amazon.com: View Top 100 Hard Drives

Top Rated Solid State Drives on Amazon.com: View Top 100 SSDs

Exploring Hard Drives in More Detail
The graphics card (or video card) is the component responsible for displaying what you see on your computer screen. Your computer monitor plugs into your graphics card via a DVI, VGA, HDMI, or DisplayPort connection, and then the graphics card plugs into your motherboard.

Not every computer requires a dedicated graphics card. Some CPU's and motherboards have built in graphics. If you're building a PC for every day use like email, Facebook, YouTube, and Microsoft Office then you'll do just fine with the integrated graphics found in a CPU and/or motherboard.

If you plan on doing gaming, video editing, CAD work, or anything else that is graphics-intensive, then a separate, dedicated video card is recommended.

While AMD and NVIDIA are really the only companies that make the chipsets for consumer video cards, many other companies use their technology and sell cards.
Check out the "Choose Parts for Your Computer" PDF below for more tips and information

Two Main Video Card Chipset Manufacturers:
Popular AMD Video Card Makers:
Popular NVIDIA Video Card Makers: 
Top Rated Video Cards on Amazon.com: View Top 100

Exploring Graphics Cards in More Detail
The name optical drive refers to CD, DVD, and Blu-ray drives. They can read and/or write data. 

Optical drives are less important these days due to software, movies, and music all being available for download or streaming online, but most people will use a disc drive from time to time.

If you ever plan on playing a CD, watching a DVD/Blu-ray, installing software from a CD/DVD, want to create audio or video discs, then you'll want some kind of optical drive.

Check out the "Choosing Parts for Your Computer" PDF below for more tips and information

Popular Blu-ray / DVD / CD Drive Manufacturers are:
Top Rated Blu-Ray Drives on Amazon.com: View Blu-ray Drives 

Top Rated DVD Drives on Amazon.com: View DVD Drives
Exploring Optical Drives in More Detail
After you put your computer together you'll need to install an operating system such as Windows 7 or Windows 8. If you're installing Windows, you have the option to buy a retail installation disc that allows you to install and uninstall the OS. Some retail packaging comes with 3 licenses so you can install the software on multiple computers.

I would recommend staying away from the traditional consumer Windows software discs that you normally see in stores and purchase a "System Builder" version. The System Builder is made for people that are building a computer. The great thing is it is a lot cheaper. The caveats are it can only be installed once and can never be uninstalled and placed on another computer, and you have to choose the correct version for your system: 32-bit or 64-bit.

Windows System Builder Discs on Amazon.com: View System Builders

Test your knowledge of computer components and their features in this short quiz. While it is optional, these questions touch on important items you should know when finding and comparing parts for your new computer. These questions are based on the videos and written lectures in the Choosing Parts section.

Installing Parts
Installing the CPU
Installing the CPU Cooler (Heatsink)
Installing the RAM (Memory)
Installing the Power Supply
Installing the Motherboard in the Case
Installing the Graphics Card
Installing the Hard Drive(s)
Installing the Optical Drive
Connecting Power & Data Cables
Connecting Power Cables to the Motherboard and CPU
Power Cables That You'll Need to Connect to Power Supply
Connecting the Front Panel
Connecting Additional Power Cable to Graphics Card
Connecting Power Cables to Hard Drive(s) and Optical Drive
Connecting Data Cables to Hard Drive(s) and Optical Drive
Reviewing Connections
Storing Unused Parts
Turning Computer On and Installing Windows & Drivers
Turning the Computer On
Installing Windows 7
Installing Drivers
Updating Windows and Installing Anti-Virus Software
Checking Your CPU's Temperature
Graphics Card Driver
Troubleshooting
Formatting a Second Hard Drive

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Covers a range of components and pricing considerations required for building PCs
Provides step-by-step instructions for assembling a computer
Includes guidance on selecting compatible parts based on intended use
Offers recommendations for cost-effective builds with varying performance levels
Provides troubleshooting tips to help resolve potential issues during assembly
Instructs learners on installing an operating system and essential software

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Reviews summary

Computer building basics

Learners say that this course provides a great overview on how to build a computer. It includes clear instructions and helpful videos covering necessary components and their assembley. Students say that this course is well-paced and easy to follow. Overall, students recommend this course to anyone interested in learning the basics of computer building.
Course suits beginners.
"I recommend this course to anyone interested in learning the basics of computer building."
Supplemental videos are helpful.
"This course provides helpful videos."
Instructions on how to build a computer are clear.
"This course is clear."
"The course is well-paced and easy to follow."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Learn How to Build a Computer with these activities:
Organize Your Class Notes and Assignments
Enhance your understanding by systematically organizing and reviewing the materials covered in the course.
Show steps
  • Gather all of your class notes, assignments, and handouts.
  • Review the materials and identify key concepts and ideas.
  • Organize the materials into a logical structure, such as by topic or chapter.
  • Create summaries or outlines of the key points.
Create a Mind Map of Computer Assembly Steps
Organize your understanding of the process of assembling a computer by creating a visual representation of the steps involved.
Browse courses on Computer Assembly
Show steps
  • Identify the main steps and sub-steps involved in assembling a computer.
  • Use a mind mapping tool or draw a diagram to represent the steps.
  • Add details, notes, and explanations to each step.
Attend a Local Tech Meetup Focused on PC Building
Connect with other enthusiasts and learn about their experiences and insights on building and maintaining computers.
Browse courses on PC Building
Show steps
  • Find a local tech meetup group that focuses on PC building.
  • Attend a meetup and introduce yourself to others.
  • Engage in discussions and ask questions about PC building.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice Installing a Virtual Machine
Follow along with this online tutorial to set up a virtual machine in a way that meets your system's unique needs and specifications.
Show steps
  • Choose a virtualization software package and download it to your computer.
  • Locate the installation files and run the installation wizard.
  • Create a new virtual machine and configure its settings.
  • Install an operating system onto the virtual machine.
Participate in a Computer Assembly Workshop
Receive hands-on guidance and support while assembling a computer in a structured workshop environment.
Browse courses on Computer Assembly
Show steps
  • Find a computer assembly workshop in your area.
  • Sign up for the workshop and pay any necessary fees.
  • Attend the workshop and participate in the assembly activities.
Build a Custom PC and Document the Experience
Gain hands-on experience and solidify your understanding by building your own custom PC and documenting the entire process.
Show steps
  • Research and select the components for your custom PC.
  • Purchase the components and assemble the computer.
  • Install the operating system and necessary software.
  • Test the computer and troubleshoot any issues.
  • Document the entire process, including your decisions, challenges, and solutions.
Volunteer at a Computer Repair or Recycling Center
Gain practical experience in troubleshooting and repairing computers while helping others in need.
Show steps
  • Find a computer repair or recycling center in your community.
  • Contact the center and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Attend training or orientation sessions provided by the center.
  • Assist customers or staff with computer repairs or recycling tasks.

Career center

Learners who complete Learn How to Build a Computer will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts protect an organization's computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the principles of information security, including information security threats, information security vulnerabilities, and information security controls. You will also learn about the different types of information security systems and how to implement and manage information security policies and procedures.
Network Engineer
Network Engineers design, implement, and maintain computer networks that connect computers, devices, and applications. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the principles of computer networks, including network protocols, network topologies, and network security. You will also learn about the network design process and how to troubleshoot network problems.
Software Developer
Software Developers design, develop, and maintain computer software applications. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the principles of software development, including software design, software development methodologies, and software testing. You will also learn about the different types of software applications and how to use software development tools.
Computer Support Specialist
Computer Support Specialists provide technical support to computer users. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the principles of computer support, including hardware troubleshooting, software troubleshooting, and network troubleshooting. You will also learn about the different types of computer support and how to provide customer service to computer users.
Web Developer
Web Developers design, develop, and maintain websites and web applications. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the principles of web development, including web design, web development technologies, and web security. You will also learn about the different types of websites and web applications and how to use web development tools.
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer Systems Analysts design, implement, and maintain computer systems that meet the needs of businesses and organizations. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the principles of computer systems, including hardware, software, and networks. You will also learn about the systems development process and how to analyze and troubleshoot computer systems.
Computer Hardware Engineer
Computer Hardware Engineers research, design, develop, and test computer hardware systems and components, such as processors, circuit boards, and memory devices. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the principles of computer hardware, including the different types of components and how they work together. You will also learn about the design process and how to test and troubleshoot hardware systems.
IT Manager
IT Managers plan, organize, and direct the activities of an organization's IT department. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the principles of IT management, including IT strategy, IT budgeting, and IT project management. You will also learn about the different types of IT organizations and how to manage IT staff.
Technology Consultant
Technology Consultants provide consulting services to businesses and organizations on the use of technology. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the principles of technology consulting, including technology consulting methodologies, technology consulting tools, and technology consulting ethics. You will also learn about the different types of technology consulting and how to manage technology consulting projects.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to help businesses and organizations make informed decisions. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the principles of data analysis, including data collection, data analysis techniques, and data visualization. You will also learn about the different types of data analysis and how to use data analysis tools.
Database Administrator
Database Administrators design, implement, and maintain databases. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the principles of database management, including database design, database administration, and database security. You will also learn about the different types of databases and how to use database management tools.
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the planning, development, and marketing of products. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the principles of product management, including product planning, product development, and product marketing. You will also learn about the different types of products and how to manage product teams.
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create and maintain technical documentation, such as user manuals, technical reports, and white papers. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the principles of technical writing, including technical writing style, technical writing tools, and technical writing ethics. You will also learn about the different types of technical writing and how to write for different audiences.
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineers design, implement, and maintain complex systems, such as computer systems, network systems, and telecommunications systems. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the principles of systems engineering, including systems analysis, systems design, and systems integration. You will also learn about the different types of systems engineering and how to manage systems engineering projects.
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, organize, and direct the activities of a project. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the principles of project management, including project planning, project execution, and project control. You will also learn about the different types of projects and how to manage project teams.

Reading list

We've selected 13 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Learn How to Build a Computer.
Provides a step-by-step guide to building a gaming PC. It covers everything from choosing the right components to overclocking your system.
Provides a thorough introduction to assembly language programming. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn how computers work at a low level.
Comprehensive textbook on computer organization and design. It provides a deep dive into the design and implementation of computer systems.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the foundations of computer science. It covers everything from the basics of computation to the latest advances in artificial intelligence.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to algorithms. It covers everything from the basics of sorting and searching to the latest advances in algorithm design.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to data structures and algorithms. It covers everything from the basics of arrays and linked lists to the latest advances in data structure design.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to linear algebra. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn about the mathematical foundations of computer graphics.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to calculus. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn about the mathematical foundations of computer graphics.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to discrete mathematics. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn about the mathematical foundations of computer science.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to computer networks. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn about the basics of networking.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to operating systems. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn about the basics of operating systems.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to computer security. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn about the basics of computer security.

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