How to Assemble a PC: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tools and Materials Needed

Workspace: Find a clean, flat, and static-free workspace.
Anti-Static Precautions: It is recommended to wear an anti-static wrist strap or frequently touch a grounded metal object to discharge any static electricity.

Place the motherboard on a flat surface in front of you, ideally on an anti-static mat or the motherboard box.

Open the CPU socket on the motherboard by lifting the lever.
Align the CPU with the socket (note the notches or triangle indicating proper orientation).
Gently place the CPU into the socket and close the lever.

Open the RAM slots by pressing down on the clips at either end.
Choose the Right Slots: Read the motherboard manual to choose the correct slots for dual-channel mode (most often A2 and B2).
Align the notch on the RAM module with the slot and press down firmly until the clips snap into place.

Note: Installing the CPU cooler is one of the more challenging tasks. Prepare yourself, carefully read and understand the manufacturer's instructions before you start. Once the thermal paste is applied and the cooler is attached, removing and reattaching the cooler can create a mess. If you failed, you must wipe off the old thermal paste completely and reapply a fresh amount to ensure proper heat transfer.
Apply Thermal Paste: If your cooler doesn’t come with pre-applied thermal paste, apply a small pea-sized amount to the top of the CPU.
Backplate Installation: Many air coolers require a backplate. Install the backplate on the backside of the motherboard.
Attach the Cooler: Attach the cooler to the CPU, following the manufacturer's instructions (some use screws, others use clips).
Connect Power Cable: Connect the cooler’s power cable to the CPU fan header on the motherboard.

Insert the PSU into the case’s PSU bay, usually located at the bottom or top rear.
Secure it with screws provided.

For 2.5” SSDs or HDDs: Secure them in the drive bays or trays using screws or tool-less mechanisms.
For M.2 SSDs: Insert the M.2 SSD into the M.2 slot on the motherboard at a 30-degree angle, then press down and secure it with a screw.

Remove the appropriate expansion slot covers on the case.
Insert the GPU into the PCIe slot on the motherboard, pressing firmly until it clicks.
Secure the GPU to the case with screws.

Connect the front panel connectors (power switch, reset switch, USB ports, audio, etc.) to the corresponding headers on the motherboard, referring to the motherboard manual for the exact pin layout.

Install any additional case fans in the desired locations for optimal airflow.
Connect the fan cables to the appropriate headers on the motherboard or a fan controller.

Use zip ties to bundle and secure excess cables.
Route cables through the case’s cable management features to keep them organized and out of the airflow paths.

Connect a monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
Turn on the power supply and press the power button on the case.
Ensure that the CPU cooler fan, case fans, and GPU fan are all spinning properly.
Enter the BIOS/UEFI setup (usually by pressing Delete, F2, or another key during boot).
Be Patient: The first boot into BIOS can sometimes take a while.
Ensure the system recognizes all installed components.
Adjust any necessary settings (e.g., boot order, XMP Profile for RAM).

Once the OS is installed, install the latest drivers for your motherboard (chipset, LAN driver, soundcard driver), GPU, and other components.
Perform any necessary OS updates.

Install any additional software or perform any further configurations as needed.
Enjoy your new custom-built PC!