Build a Computer

Why Learn Hardware?

A desktop computer is put together with 8 or 9 main parts or components. Each part has a specific job. Understanding the parts of a desktop computer will help you understand other computing systems

The ComputerHardware Wikibook is a great source for learning the basics as well. Tom’s Hardwarecovers all the latest news and developments in computer hardware.

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Learning the Parts of a Quad Core PC

Read the Computer Hardware page to learn what the main parts of a PC are. Use that information to make a Google slide show like the one below highlighting computer parts you would use if you were given $2,000 and had to buy each of the 8 main components listed below.

Your $2,000 PC Build

You’ve learned the names of the parts that go inside a computer. Your next job is to use what you know to buy the components for your first build. There are 8 main parts.

  • CPU (must be same socket type as motherboard, don’t skimp – spend $300 or more. Make sure to not choose a server processor)
  • RAM (spend at least $150)
  • Hard Drive (spend $100 or more. Must be internal, not external)
  • PSU (spend around $100-$150)
  • Video Card (don’t skimp – spend more than $300)
  • MotherBoard (must be same socket type as processor)
  • Case

Use Tigerdirect or Newegg to find parts.

You need to spend at least $1800 and not over $2000. Be sure to include the

  • name of the part (i.e. Processor),
  • the product name (i.e. AMD Athlon 64 X2 4000+ Processor 2.10GHz Dual-Core, Socket AM2)
  • and the price
  • a picture

You will need to have a complete price list and total on the last slide.

Here’s an Example:

Remember – include the total price as well. You can do a total so far (TSF) as you go, or a total page on the last slide. Put together a presentation to show the cheapest, most powerful computer you can buy.

Presentation Tools

PowerPoint

Prezi

Google Docs

Websites to Find Components

Newegg

Tiger Direct

TechBargains

Component Reviews

Tom’s Hardware

** btw – don’t use any of the components from this sample show
*** check the last slide for extra credit options

Storage

This last little packet about Storage Media & Capacity. It explains everything you need to know about bits, bytes, storage media and capacity. You’ll learn the difference between a gigabyte and a terrabyte and how many songs can really fit on a cd.

Week 4 Course Review – .pdf (for printing) or .doc (for downloading & editing)