Learn to Build a Computer (PC) in 2024

What's inside

Learning objectives

Understand the component parts of a computer and what they all do, and to read product listings for all components and understand what everything means
Understand different types of computer build (gamer, worker, budget) and how you would tailor component choices to suit these users

Learn how to assemble all components into a computer case, setup software and burn-in test a new computer build
Learn how to install components to upgrade an existing computer.

Understand the component parts of a computer and what they all do, and to read product listings for all components and understand what everything means
Understand different types of computer build (gamer, worker, budget) and how you would tailor component choices to suit these users
Learn how to assemble all components into a computer case, setup software and burn-in test a new computer build
Learn how to install components to upgrade an existing computer.

Syllabus

How to allocate budget to different computer components to achieve the correct type of computer for different users

Learn the basics of computer technology by going through the different components of a computer and understanding what each of them does.

How to set and track a PC build budget using a useful template spreadsheet and the benefits of upfront spending.

Learn how to tailor a build budget and component selection for different users, budget users, gamers, workers etc.

Can you save money purchasing used computer components? If you can, which ones should you buy and which should you stay away from?

Understanding the CPU market, CPU specs and product listings and how to choose a CPU for specific use cases.

Do you need a cooling solution? How to choose between air and AIO coolers. How to setup case cooling for the best results and achieve positive case pressure.

Understanding RAM (DRAM) memory listings, the memory market, compatability and how to choose RAM for your build. How much do you really need?

Learn all about motherboards, the market and manufacturers, sockets, sizes and specs. Which model should you choose?

Understanding the GPU market and GPU specs. How do you choose which GPU you need? Do you even need one?

M.2, SSD or HDD? Should you setup a RAID array? How much storage do you need?

Learn about power supplies and understand the recommended specs and wattage you need to correctly power a build.

Computer cases come in different sizes and have different features. Learn to choose between them.

A checklist of questions to ask yourself before purchasing any component for your build.

What sort of workspace do you need to build a computer. How much room and where should you work?

The essentials you must have before attempting to assemble any computer components.

ESD protection, learn about ESD, what it is and whether you need to protect your computer components from it and how you can do this cheaply and easily whilst building.

What is this stuff and why might you need some....

You might need a 5mm socket, but why?

Zip/cable ties, useful for tidying up the build cabling.

We are using an AIO (All-In-One) water cooler for our build. Let's take a closer look at it.

If your cooler has a backplate and your case doesn't allow access to the back of the CPU area when the board is mounted, you need to install the cooler backplate first.

Meet our computer case and be introduced to it's features, a mid tower ATX gaming case from Kolink.

Meet a modular PSU.

If your cooler doesn't have thermal paste applied, or you need to re-apply it, watch me clean a CPU and cooler mount ready for re-application.

Before installing an AIO cooler, take some time to think about how you'll position the radiator and pipes for maximum airflow and aesthetics.

What happens and what should you expect when you first turn on your new build?

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Teaches valuable skills that may help learners land a job in the tech world, providing a potential pathway into the industry

Takes learners from complete novice to 'know it all' in the world of desktop computer hardware, suggesting a comprehensive learning experience

Explores different types of computer builds, such as gaming rigs, work-from-home PCs, and budget builds, catering to diverse user needs

Offers hands-on learning and budget-friendly tips, making PC building accessible to a wider audience regardless of their financial situation

Includes instruction on how to install components to upgrade an existing computer, expanding the course's relevance beyond just new builds

Covers the fundamentals of computer hardware, including what each component is and what it does, providing a solid foundation for beginners

Reviews summary

Practical pc building guide

According to learners, this course is a highly practical and valuable guide for anyone wanting to build their own computer. Students particularly praise the step-by-step assembly instructions and the clear explanations of components and their functions. Many found the advice on budgeting and tailoring builds to different needs (gaming, work, casual) very helpful. Reviewers highlight the course's beginner-friendly approach, making the seemingly complex process of PC building accessible even with no prior experience. While the content on specific hardware is current for 2024, some note the fast pace of technology means staying updated is key. Overall, it is seen as a solid foundation that empowers students to successfully build their first PC.

Content reflects current tech but market changes rapidly.

"The content is very current for 2024 regarding specific hardware examples."

"While the principles are timeless, specific recommendations for parts will inevitably change over time."

"It provides a solid understanding of *how* to choose components, which is key given how fast new tech comes out."

Covers basic software setup and system checks.

"The guidance on installing the operating system was straightforward and easy to follow."

"Learning how to perform stress tests to ensure the system is stable was a valuable final step."

"The post-build steps like driver installation and initial configuration were well covered."

Helpful guidance on cost allocation and build types.

"The course provided practical advice on setting a budget and allocating funds for a gaming rig."

"Learning how to tailor a build for different users (work, casual, gamer) was very insightful."

"The tips on finding value and whether to buy used parts were surprisingly useful for managing costs."

Excellent breakdown of hardware types and functions.

"Understanding what each component does and how to choose the right one for my needs was very well explained."

"The module on different hardware parts, like CPUs, GPUs, and RAM, really clarified the technical jargon."

"I learned a lot about component compatibility and specifications, which helped me feel confident in my purchases."

Designed for novices with no prior PC building skills.

"As someone with absolutely no experience, I found this course pitched perfectly for beginners."

"It starts with the absolute fundamentals and builds up your knowledge without being overwhelming."

"This course took me from knowing nothing about PC hardware to confidently building my own machine."

Detailed, easy-to-follow instructions for building.

"The step-by-step instructions on how to assemble the PC components were incredibly clear and easy to follow."

"I found the hands-on demonstrations of putting everything together to be the most valuable part."

"The guided process for building a PC from start to finish made it much less intimidating than I expected."

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 to Build a Computer (PC) in 2024 - all types! with these activities:

Review Computer Hardware Fundamentals

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Reinforce your understanding of core computer components before diving into the build process. This will make it easier to understand the purpose of each step.

Browse courses on CPU

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Review the definitions of CPU, GPU, RAM, motherboard, storage, and PSU.
Research the latest generations of CPUs and GPUs.
Identify the different types of RAM and storage available.

Read 'PC Hardware in a Nutshell'

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Gain a deeper understanding of PC hardware components and their functions. This book provides a solid foundation for the course material.

View Building the Perfect PC: The Perfect PC is the... on Amazon

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Read the chapters covering CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage devices.
Take notes on key concepts and terminology.
Relate the book's content to the course syllabus.

Plan a Budget PC Build

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Apply the budgeting and component selection knowledge learned in the course. This project will help you solidify your understanding of how to choose the right parts for a specific purpose.

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Define the purpose of the PC (gaming, work, general use).
Set a budget for the entire build.
Research and select components that fit the budget and purpose.
Create a parts list with prices and links to online retailers.

Four other activities

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Read 'Building the Perfect PC'

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Get a comprehensive guide to building a PC from start to finish. This book provides practical advice and tips for a successful build.

View Building Extreme PCs on Amazon

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Read the chapters on component selection and assembly.
Follow the step-by-step instructions for building a PC.
Refer to the troubleshooting section for common issues.

Document Your PC Build Process

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Reinforce your learning by documenting each step of the PC build process. This will help you identify areas where you need more practice or understanding.

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Take photos or videos of each step of the build.
Write a detailed description of each step, explaining what you did and why.
Share your documentation with others for feedback.

Troubleshoot Common PC Build Issues

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Develop your troubleshooting skills by practicing common PC build scenarios. This will prepare you for unexpected problems during your own builds.

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Research common PC build issues (e.g., no power, no display).
Simulate these issues on a test PC or using online resources.
Practice troubleshooting steps to identify and resolve the issues.

Benchmark and Optimize Your PC

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Learn how to benchmark your PC's performance and optimize it for specific tasks. This will help you get the most out of your build.

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Research benchmarking tools and techniques.
Run benchmarks to measure your PC's performance.
Identify areas for optimization (e.g., overclocking, driver updates).
Implement optimization techniques and re-run benchmarks to measure the improvement.

Career center

Learners who complete Learn to Build a Computer (PC) in 2024 - all types! will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Custom PC Builder

A Custom PC Builder designs and builds personalized computer systems to meet specific client needs. This course has direct application for Custom PC Builders. From learning the fundamentals of computer hardware to mastering full computer assembly, the course will help you excel in this role. The knowledge of tailoring builds for different users (gamers, home workers, engineers) will ensure you can meet diverse client requirements. The debugging and testing skills acquired will guarantee the stability and performance of your custom builds.

See salaries and explore the career path for Custom PC Builder

Computer Assembler

A career as a Computer Assembler involves building and configuring computer systems. This course helps you learn the fundamentals of computer hardware, from understanding what each component does to the step-by-step process of assembling a computer. You'll learn about different types of builds, such as gaming rigs and work PCs, which is directly applicable to this role. The hands-on lessons in full computer assembly will provide practical experience, and the debugging skills you'll acquire will allow you to troubleshoot issues effectively. With this course, you build a solid base for a job as a Computer Assembler.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Assembler

PC Repair Technician

A PC Repair Technician diagnoses and repairs computer hardware and software issues. This course is directly relevant. The course curriculum teaches PC hardware, assembly, and debugging. You will learn to understand and fix common computer issues, which is crucial for a PC Repair Technician. The knowledge of burn-in tests can ensure computers are stable after repair. The hands-on lessons will provide valuable experience, making you a more capable PC Repair Technician.

See salaries and explore the career path for PC Repair Technician

Computer Hardware Tester

A Computer Hardware Tester evaluates the performance and reliability of computer components. This course helps one learn the fundamentals of computer hardware, assembly, and benchmarking, all of which are important for this role. The hands-on lessons will impart an understanding of how components work together. The course will help one learn how to debug build issues and perform burn-in tests, which can be directly applied to hardware testing. With this course, you will be better prepared to assess the quality and stability of computer hardware.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Hardware Tester

IT Support Specialist

As an IT Support Specialist, providing technical assistance and support related to computer systems is the main task. This course will help you build a strong foundation in computer hardware and software. The course's detailed explanations of computer components and hands-on assembly lessons will be useful for diagnosing and resolving hardware-related issues. By learning to install operating systems and troubleshoot build problems, you can better assist users. The insights into ensuring system stability make you a more effective IT Support Specialist.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Support Specialist

IT Technician

An IT Technician maintains and repairs computer systems and networks. This course can help the learner build a strong foundation in computer hardware. The course's detailed explanations of computer components and hands-on assembly lessons may be useful in the role. By learning how to install operating systems and troubleshoot build issues, you prepare yourself for the daily tasks of an IT Technician. The knowledge gained from this course can enhance your ability to diagnose and resolve hardware-related problems.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Technician

Computer Salesperson

As a Computer Salesperson, you sell computers and related equipment to customers, and the course can provide product expertise. The course teaches the fundamentals of computer hardware, component specifications, and how to tailor builds for different users. This knowledge will help you advise customers. The course's insights into budgeting and market trends will enable you to offer cost-effective solutions. With this course, you will be better equipped to understand customer needs and recommend the right products.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Salesperson

Computer Consultant

A Computer Consultant advises clients on the best technology solutions for their needs. This course can provide valuable insights into computer hardware and system building, which are essential for this role. The fundamentals of computer hardware, component specifications, and how to tailor builds for different users will help you offer informed recommendations. The course's lessons on budgeting skills will enable you to provide cost-effective solutions. With this course, you will be better equipped to advise clients and implement appropriate technology strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Consultant

Computer Trainer

The role of a Computer Trainer involves teaching individuals or groups about computer hardware, software, and other IT-related topics. This course will help a Computer Trainer hone their technical skills and knowledge. The fundamentals of computer hardware, assembly, and troubleshooting will aid in explaining concepts to students. The knowledge of how to tailor builds for different users can be integrated into lesson plans. With this course's robust foundation, you will be a more effective and confident Computer Trainer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Trainer

Technical Support Specialist

As a Technical Support Specialist, one is asked to troubleshoot computer hardware and software issues for customers or internal teams. This course may be useful in providing a foundational comprehension of computer components, assembly, and debugging. The course helps one learn the fundamentals of computer hardware and how to diagnose and fix common build problems. The course's curriculum will show one to install operating systems and benchmark systems to ensure stability. All of these topics can help on the job as a Technical Support Specialist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Support Specialist

Systems Administrator

A Systems Administrator is responsible for the upkeep, configuration, and reliable operation of computer systems. This course may be useful in gaining practical experience in computer hardware. The fundamentals of computer hardware and the course's lessons in assembling a computer will make you a more technically rounded Systems Administrator. Debugging skills are crucial for troubleshooting system issues. By understanding how to install operating systems and perform burn-in tests, you can maintain system stability and performance.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator

Quality Assurance Analyst

A Quality Assurance Analyst ensures the quality of computer hardware and systems through testing and analysis. This course may be useful in developing a strong foundation in computer hardware. The course will help you learn the fundamentals of computer components, assembly, and debugging. The debugging and burn-in testing lessons will provide practical skills for evaluating hardware performance and stability as a Quality Assurance Analyst. With this course, you can enhance your ability to identify and resolve hardware-related issues, ensuring product reliability.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst

Hardware Engineer

A Hardware Engineer designs, develops, tests, and oversees the manufacturing of computer hardware. This course provides a practical understanding of the components used in computer systems. The course's lessons on computer hardware fundamentals, component specifications, and budget allocation may be useful. Moreover, the course includes hands-on assembly experience, which would be helpful in a lab setting. The course's material on debugging and burn-in testing helps teach the Hardware Engineer to evaluate the stability and performance of hardware designs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Hardware Engineer

Electronics Technician

An Electronics Technician assembles, tests, and repairs electronic components and systems that could include computer hardware. While more general than computers, this course provides a solid footing for a career as an Electronics Technician. The course will help you learn the fundamentals of computer hardware, component specifications, and hands-on assembly. The debugging and testing skills taught in the course will give you a framework for troubleshooting electronic systems. With some additional training, you can improve your skill set as an Electronics Technician.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electronics Technician

Data Center Technician

The role of a Data Center Technician involves maintaining the hardware and infrastructure that supports data storage and processing. This course may be useful in gaining insights into computer assembly and hardware functionality. The fundamentals of computer hardware will help you understand the inner workings of server systems. The hands-on assembly lessons can provide practical skills for maintaining and upgrading data center equipment. The debugging skills taught in the course can be applied to diagnosing and resolving hardware issues in a data center environment.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Center Technician

Reading list

We've selected two 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 to Build a Computer (PC) in 2024 - all types!.

Building the Perfect PC

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Provides a comprehensive overview of PC hardware, covering everything from basic components to advanced troubleshooting techniques. It's a useful reference for understanding the inner workings of a computer. While not strictly necessary for the course, it provides additional depth and breadth to the material covered. It is commonly used as a reference by IT professionals.

Building the Perfect PC: The Perfect PC is the One...

Paperback

Building Extreme PCs

Save

Offers a step-by-step guide to building a custom PC, covering component selection, assembly, and troubleshooting. It's a great resource for both beginners and experienced builders. It is more valuable as additional reading than as a current reference. It provides a good overview of the entire PC building process.

Learn to Build a Computer (PC) in 2024 - all types!

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Save this course

Reviews summary

Practical pc building guide

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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