Mistakes to Avoid in the Future When Building a Computer

There are many reasons that push us to build a computer ourselves instead of buying a pre-built “ready” device, one of the most important is that we can choose the components we want and take advantage of special offers, discounts, and cheap prices for some components. In addition, we will be able to install a professional cooling system and choose the appearance that suits the decor of the room where the computer is placed. Not to mention the advantage of being able to upgrade computer components in the future to handle heavy tasks and keep up with the requirements of modern software and applications.

Above all, no one can deny that assembling a computer ourselves is an enjoyable process in itself and makes us more knowledgeable and able to understand the device better. However, unfortunately, there are many common mistakes that some beginner users may make when building a computer for the first time. In this article, we will highlight these mistakes so that you can avoid them when building your next computer.

1- Buying Incompatible Components

This is one of the most common mistakes made by some beginners when building and assembling computers. It is possible to buy a central processing unit (CPU) that is incompatible with the motherboard, or it is possible to rush into buying random access memory (RAM) that is not compatible with the motherboard.

For example, if you are planning to buy a 10th generation Intel processor with socket LGA 1200, the motherboard must also have a socket LGA 1200 like those containing the H410, B460, H470, or Z490 chipsets, and of course the new generation motherboards will also support LGA 1200 processors. But you cannot buy a processor like Core i7-8700 to work on one of those motherboards, instead, you can buy a motherboard with an LGA 1150 socket.

Also, you should ensure that the motherboard supports the type of RAM you have chosen. There are many types of RAM that are incompatible with some motherboards. If you want a reliable source to confirm the compatibility of components, you will not find a better option than PC Part Picker. At the same time, you can consult experts online before making a purchase.

You can also inquire from retailers and make sure that the components are compatible before purchasing. In short, do not rush into building possibilities and think that the processor or RAM will be compatible before making sure from official sources or consulting an expert so that you do not face a bottleneck problem.

A Must-Read Topic: Mistakes I Made in Assembling My Previous PC and Will Not Repeat in the New One

2- Buying a Cheap Power Supply

There is a high likelihood that you will miscalculate the appropriate power supply for the computer and the components you have decided to purchase. This is what prompted us to write an article about the top 3 websites that help you determine a suitable and compatible power supply for the computer. The components that thirst for a huge amount of power are graphics cards and central processing units. Therefore, you can confirm the official sources for graphics cards such as Nvidia’s or AMD’s website to verify the graphic card requirements for the power supply.

It is also essential to choose a power supply certified “at least” with a bronze or gold certificate to ensure that it is capable of extracting its full capabilities under heavy pressure and in the face of high temperatures. Certified professional power supplies contain Japanese and Taiwanese capacitors capable of operating at a temperature of 105C and have many protection systems and mechanisms against the risks of electrical current.

Of course, there are many professional power supplies that you can rely on, such as EVGA, Seasonic, Corsair, FSP, Antec, BeQuiet, and many others, but do not attempt to buy a Chinese or Korean power supply even if it is 1000 watts because in reality it will not be able to provide 200 watts to the computer under heavy pressure. Therefore, in short, if you are not sure, you can inquire from experts about the appropriate power supply for your device, and the more you pay, the better power supply you will get with a longer warranty period and the ability to last for long periods.

Read Also: Why You Should Not Buy a Cheap Power Supply?

3- Not Choosing a Safe and Clean Workspace During Installation

This point is extremely important if you want to install the computer correctly and without errors. Never assume that any place will suffice. You must choose a clean surface free from any debris that may distract or annoy you during installation. Try to choose a large table that allows you to place all cables, wires, and screws close to your hands during installation. It is worth noting the need to avoid installation on the ground and on carpets, but if you prefer to install on the ground without connecting the device to electricity, there is no problem. But of course, a wooden table will be the safest in this process to ensure your safety.

4- Forgetting to Install the Motherboard Standoffs in the Case

Most beginner users will make this mistake by 50% because they often do not know the importance of having standoffs. These metal pieces are very necessary for securing the motherboard in the case and allow you to attach screws better. In addition, the main purpose of these standoffs is to prevent electrical short circuits due to the motherboard contacting the case’s metal. Therefore, do not rush to install the motherboard inside the case; instead, install the metal standoffs first in the case and then place the motherboard parallel to these metal standoffs.

5- Forgetting to Install the I/O Shield for the Motherboard

Many beginner users believe that they should install the motherboard and then install the metal plate for the motherboard’s rear ports in the case. However, in this case, you will discover that you cannot install the I/O Shield if you rush to install the motherboard. Therefore, you should install the rear I/O shield first in the case and then install the motherboard in the case. In this way, you will notice that the motherboard’s rear ports are perfectly aligned with the I/O Shield.

6- Incorrectly Installing the Processor

This is another common error among beginner computer users, which is installing the central processing unit incorrectly, which may cause one of the CPU pins to break or twist or the fixed CPU socket on the motherboard. Therefore, you should watch tutorials on YouTube to show you the correct installation method to avoid this error. It is extremely easy, and you will find a symbol in the form of a “small arrow” pointing downward on the CPU and on the motherboard socket as well, and you should align this symbol correctly and install the processor gently.

7- Not Properly Securing Cables

Yes, the computer requires you to handle it gently during installation to avoid damaging anything, but do not be too delicate. If you have installed all the cables and still cannot start the computer correctly, this means that some cables are not properly connected to the motherboard ports. Therefore, make sure to install all cables firmly – but do not use excessive force – just make sure that the cables are connected and tied to the end and that the memory modules are evenly placed in the RAM slots correctly.

Very Important: How to Assemble and Install a Computer Case in Just Five Steps

8- Using Too Much Thermal Paste

Adding thermal paste is a simple matter, but it requires skill and professionalism because too much paste may damage the motherboard components, and at the same time, a lack of it and not adding it correctly may cause the central processing unit temperature to rise. So, to add the paste correctly, add an amount similar to a large pea or in a slanted line only on the processor’s surface.

Do not add too much so that it does not become messy. Just add it carefully like in the image in the previous example. You can take a look at the excellent article by the blogger Mahmoud Monir, Changing the Thermal Paste to Speed Up the Computer, and you will get very important information that will definitely benefit you.