How to assemble a computer yourself from components? How to assemble a computer from components

The computer configurator with compatibility check allows you to quickly assemble a system unit with the technical characteristics required by the user. Using our online designer, you can easily assemble a reliable office machine, a home multimedia system unit, or a powerful gaming setup.

Computer assembly online

Nowadays, like many years before, assembling a computer from independently selected components is popular. This is a good opportunity to choose what you want. Nothing limits you; there are hundreds of options available for assembly, among which there is sure to be one you like.

Our online store offers the opportunity to assemble a computer online through the configurator. In it, this process is presented in the form of categories of components, from the processor to the power supply. Each category contains an expanded range of models with descriptions of characteristics for ease of selection.

To simplify the selection of components, the configurator has a compatibility filter for the main components of the assembly. For example, by selecting a specific processor, the following components are automatically filtered by compatibility. Also, you will be presented with a choice to install the operating system. After completing the assembly process, you receive the final result based on three parameters: price, technical data, rendered image. After placing an order and confirming it by phone, our specialists assemble this kit and check its functionality.

The advantage of this method of purchasing a system unit is that you not only choose the components you want, but also have the opportunity to choose the brand or manufacturer of the part.

Having assembled a certain configuration and completed by pressing the assemble/buy buttons, the assembly is assigned a specific serial number, by typing it in the product search bar, you can find this PC and send a link to it to friends or acquaintances for consultation or recommending them for purchase.

An important feature of our configurator is the “get an expert’s opinion” function. By sending your request through this form, you will receive a detailed response with a recommendation to the email you specified.

Try it and see for yourself - assembling a computer online is easy and simple! In case of difficulties, you can always get advice from our specialists on all issues that interest you.

• Video card;
• processor, cooler and thermal paste;
• RAM;
• motherboard;
• case with power supply;
• Screwdriver Set.

Instructions for assembling a personal computer from components

1 Prepare complete set

Let’s prepare all the components and take another look at them to make sure we haven’t forgotten anything. I will build a computer from this.

2 Preparation motherboard

Let's open the box with the motherboard and take it out. The box usually contains instructions, a driver disk, a back panel, and cables for the drive and hard drive.

It is important not to damage the motherboard from static electricity. Therefore, first remove the static charge from yourself, “ground yourself” before picking it up. It is advisable not to wear synthetic clothing, and your hands should not be excessively dry.

Taking the motherboard out of the factory box

3 Installation central processor

The first step is to install the central processing unit (CPU) into the slot on the board. One corner of the processor is usually marked with a triangle. The same triangle is also on the board. We place the processor so that the marks match. And then we press it with a special lever located on one of the edges of the processor seat (socket).

4 Installation radiator and cooler

Now you need to install a radiator with a cooler and connect it to the power connector on the board. If thermal paste has already been applied to the radiator, then it is ready for installation. If there is no thermal paste, it must be applied in an even, thin, neat layer to the surface that will be adjacent directly to the processor. Then place the radiator on the processor and rub it in thoroughly so that the paste is evenly distributed in the space between the radiator and the processor. Then close the locking latches. Well, the final touch is to connect the fan wire to the power connector on the motherboard, usually it is designated as “CPU FAN”.

Depending on the processor family, radiator installation options may differ slightly from those described. Usually the technique is described in detail in the motherboard datasheet; read it before starting work.

5 Installing modules random access memory

The next step is installing RAM modules. If you have one module, then place it in the first slot. It is usually marked as "DIMM_A1" or simply "DIMM_1". If there are more than two memory slots, and there are several memory modules, then place them first in slots of the same color: this way the RAM will work faster.

6 Installation rear panel

Now we install into the case a shiny metal back panel with holes for all connectors. It is installed from the inside by simply pressing it outwards.

7 Installation motherboard

The board has holes for mounting, and the case has holes and a number of metal stands, usually at least 6 pieces. Depending on the size of your board, you need to place the racks in the case so that they are under the board's mounting holes. Now we place the motherboard in the case. There should be posts underneath all the holes. The motherboard connectors must fit neatly into the holes in the back panel. We fasten the motherboard with screws to the stands.

8 Installation video cards

It's the video card's turn. Modern video cards usually have a PCI-Express connector. We place it in the slot until it clicks and secure it to the back wall with a screw.

9 Installation and connection power supply

Now we connect the power supply to the motherboard. First, connect the large 20-pin double-row connector ("8" in the picture) to the motherboard. Then connect the 4-pin connector "7". It can be placed either nearby or in another location on the board. A modern hard drive and DVD drive are connected using type “3” connectors, old ones - using type “2” connectors. If you have a powerful video card, then it requires additional power - connectors “5” and “6”. Type "1" connector is used to power an older floppy drive.

10 Connecting ports and indicators

We connect USB ports, additional audio connectors, internal speaker and front panel buttons: power and reboot buttons, hard drive and computer power indicators. Usually these connectors are located side by side and labeled on the motherboard like this: USB, PWR_SW, RST_SW, SPEAKER, HDD_LED, POWER_LED.

To avoid mistakes, carefully read the instructions for your motherboard model and follow them when connecting the front panel, buttons and LED indicators.

11 Connecting HDD hard drives, CD and DVD drives

12 Turning on the computer and installation of device drivers

Let's check everything again and then turn on the computer. If you have previously installed the operating system, it should boot immediately. Naturally, when you turn it on for the first time, you will need to install all the drivers: first on the motherboard and all its devices, and then on the video card.

When you turn it on for the first time, it is advisable to connect the monitor to the built-in video adapter of the motherboard, and not to a discrete video card in the PCI-Express slot. Then, when all the drivers are installed, switch the monitor to a discrete video card.

Read the manual (instructions) for the motherboard before starting work.

If possible, after assembly, use wire to twist all the wires into one bundle so that nothing unnecessary dangles, sticks out, or interferes with the free circulation of air inside the case.

After installing the drivers on the motherboard, restart the computer and only then install the drivers on the video card.

note

Make sure you are not electrified before handling any computer components. If you experience static discharge, wet your hands, touch the computer case or the central heating pipe.

At first need to prepare the body system unit for assembly.

1. Unscrew the screws from the side panels of the case
2. Remove both side covers
3. Installing the connector panel for the motherboard before installing it in the case

This connector panel is already always included with the motherboard. Carefully (so as not to cut yourself on its sharp edges) insert it into the body until a characteristic click is heard, it should snap tightly in the case.

Preparing the motherboard for assembly into a PC case

At this stage we prepare the motherboard for installation in a PC case. We will install:

• CPU
• RAM modules
• CPU cooling system (cooler, fan)

Installing an Intel processor (Intel)

First thing remove protective black plastic from the processor socket. Simply press the clamp and remove the plastic protection.

Gently grasp the processor with your fingers and install it into the socket, paying attention to its correct orientation.

Back clamp the clamp with some effort at the end of the action.

The central processor must "fit into its socket" without any effort and the use of force.

At this stage we will install CPU cooling system. In this case, a standard cooler is used, the one that came with the processor, the so-called “boxed” one.

If you have your own thermal paste, it is better to replace it with the one that is already applied to the radiator. If not, leave it as is and install CO (don't forget to remove the film from the thermal paste!).

We install the cooler so that the fastening the pins fit into their corresponding holes in the motherboard. Please note that the power cable reached the connector power supply (in our case it is located at the top of the motherboard).

Then with effort snap the pins diagonally, and each time there should be a characteristic click.

Connect the fan to the "CPU FAN1" power connector.

Now we need to produce installing RAM to the motherboard. For this move the latches apart-slot clamps for RAM modules.

Please pay pay attention to the recess in the module RAM, it must coincide with the partition in the slot. This is protection against incompatible modules. Don't miss this moment, otherwise you will can damage RAM!

After installing the RAM module, secure it with latches, which you previously spread apart.

to install into the motherboard case, take it with your hands and install it into the system unit case. All side connectors and I/O ports must be very enter the plate exactly with holes for them, previously installed by you in the case at the previous stages of assembling the computer.

Now screw the motherboard bolts to the system unit case. It is better to tighten the first screw a few turns, not completely, so that the other bolts fit exactly. Tighten the remaining screws until clear resistance occurs, then tighten the first one.

Connection to front panel motherboard with USB and audio output

In the manual (instructions) for our motherboard we should find information on how to connect the front panel with audio and USB output. You should also make sure that all cables do not interfere with the free flow of air in the case.

Installing a hard drive into the system case

Now install HDD hard drive 3.5 inches into the system unit case. This is quite simple to do, as you can see in the photo, the HDD is installed in a specially designated place closer to the front of the case.

Secure the hard drive to the sides four bolts, two on each side.

Installing the power supply Using a computer shouldn’t cause you any difficulties either. Just place it in the appropriate compartment housing and secure with four bolts. Always tighten the bolts better diagonally!

Connecting the power supply cables

At this stage of the build, you need connect power to components. SATA (SATA) cable you connect to hard drive and the disk drive, if you decide to install it. And also an EPS cable (CPU power), 24-pin connector for the motherboard, PCI-E graphics card power. Make sure that the cables are laid out so that no difficulties were created for heat removal.

The power supply has a special output with 4 yellow-black wires, so we connect it to the processor power socket on the motherboard.

In this photo you see connected by SATA cable(5 wires - 2 yellow, 2 black, 1 red) hard drive, top. And power is connected motherboard, bottom right in the photo.

On modern motherboards, you need to connect an additional 4-pin connector, which, as a rule, is separate from the main cable. To make connection easier, pick up the main connector and connect it with additional. Then connect the entire structure to the connector on the mat. board

Signal cable connection SATA from the hard drive to the motherboard to the "sata 1" connector.

Installing a video card into the case

For installation video cards in the case computer, you will first need remove metal strip opposite the PCI-E slot.

Further install the video card itself into the PCI-E slot on the motherboard. For this you need release the locking clip and insert the card until it clicks. Then screw the card to the panel where you previously removed the metal plate.

The result of self-assembly of the computer system unit

As we see, with self-assembly PC system unit anyone can handle it the user, if he has all the necessary components and the desire to do it himself at home.

Do you want to build a computer for games or for Photoshop? Are you looking for instructions with photos on how to assemble a computer with your own hands? You've come to the right place.

The article continues the story about assembling a computer at home. Let us remind you that we are assembling a computer for a photographer, which easily turns into a powerful gaming computer by simply adding a video card. The selection of components for the photo and gaming computer being assembled, as well as methods for protecting electronic components from static electricity, was described.

Before you begin the computer assembly process, make sure you have a Phillips screwdriver - this is the only tool you will need. Make sure you have all the components needed to build your PC. Make sure you provide antistatic protection for sensitive electronic components. All this was described in detail in the previous article. If everything is in order, let's get started.

Computer assembly sequence. Step-by-step instruction

It is convenient to start assembling a computer by installing the processor (Core i5 6500) into the socket on the motherboard (H110M PRO-VD). To do this, remove the motherboard from the antistatic bag, holding it by the ends, and place it on a cotton fabric (calico, satin) folded in several layers. Several layers will gently hold the board, it will not slip and scratch the table. In addition, cotton does not accumulate static electricity. Raise the processor pressure plate lever (press down slightly and move it to the side), and fold back the processor pressure plate. There is a plastic plug on the pressure plate. We don’t touch her, she will go away on her own. Next, take the processor out of the box and remove it from the blister. We hold the processor exclusively by the ends, without touching the contact pads. We combine the triangular key on the processor and on the board. Also on the processor on the opposite side of the key there are 2 notches on the sides; they should also go around the corresponding protrusions on the board socket. Having aligned the key and the notches, we simply place the processor with the contacts down on the socket without any effort. If the key and the notches are aligned correctly, the processor will lie flat, without distortion. Next, simply lower the pressure plate onto the processor and secure it with a lever. At this moment, the plastic plug on the plate should bounce off on its own. We put it aside, it is no longer needed. The entire processor is installed on the motherboard.

MSI h110m pro-vd processor installation

The box with the processor also contains a fan, the so-called box cooler. Take it out of the box. Be careful not to lubricate the thermal paste that is applied to the heatsink where it touches the processor. The paste is needed to smooth out micro-irregularities, to ensure a tighter contact between the radiator and the processor body, so that heat is better dissipated. Every time you install or dismantle the cooler, you need to apply new paste. So if for any reason you want to remove an already installed cooler, do not forget to buy additional thermal paste in a tube. Installing a boxed cooler is generally simple: you need to rotate the fan around its axis so that the power connector reaches the mating part on the motherboard. Align the 4 holes on the board with the clips on the fan. Press down on the clips and they will snap into place. The clips must be fixed one at a time in the following sequence: first opposite along one diagonal, then along the other. Having snapped the clips, we connect the fan power connector with the mating part on the motherboard (marking on the cpufan board).

Next, install 2 RAM sticks on the motherboard (Kingston HyperX FURY Black Series 16 GB). The planks are very easy to install. You need to move the levers on the sides of the memory connectors on the motherboard to the sides. Install the strip into the connector, aligning the only notch on the strip with the protrusion in the connector, and gently press down. The bar will sink down, and the side arms will rise and snap into place.

CPU cooler and memory sticks on MSI h110m pro-vd board

It's time to install our motherboard into the system case. We take our case (AEROCOOL MC3), remove the side covers, and put them aside. Place the body in a horizontal position. You need to install the missing support bushings on the motherboard mounting panel. Four pieces, which are present on all board sizes, are already installed. We look at how many mounting holes there are on the board; under each hole you need to install a support sleeve. The support bushings are in a bag with screws that come with the body. The same bag contains a hex adapter for a Phillips screwdriver. The adapter is needed to tighten the threaded connection between the bushing and the panel. At first I didn’t notice this adapter and tightened the bushings with pliers, but you do everything as expected using the adapter.

When all the support bushings are installed, you can mount the motherboard connector socket on the rear wall of the system unit. The socket comes complete with the motherboard. There are special recesses in the system unit case, so this socket seems to snap into place.

Now you can screw the motherboard itself onto the support bushings. For this we take the screws from the same package included with the case. When tightening the screws, the board must be pressed against the back panel, since it rests and springs with special tendrils.

Mounting the MSI h110m pro-vd motherboard in the system case

For those who want to build a powerful gaming computer and have purchased an additional gaming video card such as the GeForce GTX 10 series, now is the time to install it on the PCI express connector of the motherboard and secure the socket to the rear wall of the system unit.

Turn the body over to a vertical position. Now we will install an optical DVD drive (DVD-RW LG GH24NSD0). In the following pictures, the devices are conventionally shown with connected wires. There is no need to do this yet. Installation of wires is a separate operation. On the front panel of the system unit case, you need to remove one of the three removable panels for external 5.25-inch devices. This will be the topmost panel. To remove it, you need to bend one of the side clamps from the inside and press on the panel from the outside. The panel will fall inside, after which it can be removed. We insert our optical drive into the resulting hole in the case from the outside, aligning the drive with the front panel of the system unit. We fix the drive in the basket for external devices. On one side of the basket there are clips for quick fixation; there you just need to bend the lever. On the other hand, there are no such clamps, so we screw in 2 screws from the kit.

Optical drive in the basket for external devices

Now it's the turn of SSD (OCZ Trion 150 TRN150-25SAT3-240G) and HDD (1 TB WD Caviar Blue) drives. We will place the solid-state drive in the basket for internal devices, 2.5-inch compartment. On one side, we insert the pins of the basket into the disk mounting holes, and on the other, we fix the disk with two screws from the kit to the system unit case. For the hard drive, screw in screws with a narrow pin head on one side; they will slide along the guide. We insert the pin heads into the guides and insert the disk into the basket for internal devices, 3.5-inch compartment. On the opposite side, fix the disk with three screws from the system unit case kit.

SSD and HDD drives in the basket for internal devices

Now comes the power supply (Aerocool KCAS 600W). We take it out of the box and install it at the bottom of the case, with the fan down, towards the ventilation hole. The system unit has high legs, so there is room for air to enter. The power cord connector will face the outside and the wiring harness will face the inside of the chassis. We fasten the 4 screws from the kit on the rear wall.

Power supply at the bottom of the system unit

Now that all the components are in place, you need to connect them with electrical cables. All devices must be connected by interface cables to the motherboard. Plus, each device needs to be connected to a power cable from the power supply. In the pictures, all power cables have a black polymer braid. Almost all connectors are keyed, so it is impossible to mix them up unless you use excessive force. Plus, the board has signatures for each connector part. You should immediately try to lay the cables through channels and through technological holes in the system unit case, so that all that remains is to secure them later.

Let's connect the signal wires to the motherboard:

• 3 SATA3 cables from three devices: DVD drive, HDD drive, SSD drive. On one side of the cable the connector is connected to the device, on the other side of the cable the connector is connected to the motherboard. For the HDD drive, there is no need to connect the connector on the motherboard side yet. We will connect it after installing Windows on the SSD disk, this will be discussed later;
• Wires from the front panel of the system unit: blue USB3 connector, audio panel connector, USB2 connector. The buttons and lights on the front panel of the system unit come to the motherboard in the form of single contacts with markings. To install them, you need to check the diagram included with the motherboard. We also connect the front panel fan connector (marked on the sysfan board).

Let's connect the power wires to all devices. We take the wires from the power supply:

• CPU power connector;
• Motherboard power connector;
• Additional front panel fan power supply. The Molex connector is mounted parallel to the signal wires, increasing the cross-section of the power wire;
• 3 SATA power connectors for each device: DVD drive, HDD drive, SSD drive.
• Those who installed a video card need to check whether it has an additional power connector (for powerful video cards). If so, then it needs to be connected.

The connection of connectors on the msi h110m pro-vd board is shown in the picture. In this and other pictures, the wires are conventionally shown held together with plastic clamps. There is no need to install clamps yet - this is done at the last stage, when everything is already working.

MSI h110m pro-vd connector connection

After connecting the wires inside the system unit, you can connect the power cord, plug it into a power outlet, connect the keyboard, mouse, monitor, and then . If you need to correct something during setup, do not forget to remove the plug from the outlet, including the one at the monitor.

After setting up the BIOS and installing the OS, if everything works, you need to use plastic clamps to secure the wires in the system unit case so that they do not dangle when moving the computer. If, as in this case, you use an integrated video card, you need to install a plug on the hole in the first PCI expansion slot (on the back wall, where the discrete video card panel usually comes out). The plug is included with the system unit case. You should end up with something like this:

Fully assembled system unit. View from the motherboard
Securing cables to the system board panel

All that remains is to screw on the side covers of the system unit and you can use the computer.

In this configuration, everything came together and worked the first time for me. I solved my problem: Photoshop’s camera raw developer began to move and process the raw image from the photo matrix (RAW format).

3DNews has a large and diverse audience. The resource is visited by both seasoned enthusiasts who have assembled more than one PC, and readers who are just beginning to delve into all the intricacies of computer technology. The test laboratory elegantly overclocks them to serious frequencies, to study the durability of drives, in modern games and to purchase unusual hardware abroad, but at the same time does not forget about inexperienced users. This is how the “” section appeared, which offers various configurations of system units. After reading the comments and personal communication with the readers of the site, it became clear to me that it was time to tell in detail and show beginners how to assemble the components proposed in the article into a single whole. This is exactly what this material is dedicated to.

⇡ Selection and compatibility of components

Sometimes deciding on the set of components that will make up your PC is more difficult than assembling the system unit yourself at home. You can find a huge number of processors, motherboards and video cards on sale. You can argue for a long time about which brand is preferable, as well as debate about whose graphics are faster, the main thing is that when you finally choose a configuration, all the hardware is fully compatible with each other. By the way, these are the systems I propose in “”. If you follow this rule, assembling a system unit is not much different from playing with a construction set in which all the parts fit together. The dimensions of components, parameters of mounting holes and connectors - all elements of a computer are strictly regulated, and therefore, for example, it cannot be that DDR3 RAM suddenly works on a motherboard with DIMM slots intended for installing exclusively DDR4 modules. You simply won't be able to install them into the appropriate slots.

For the full functioning of the system unit, you must purchase the following devices: motherboard, central processor, cooler, RAM, hard drive or solid-state drive, video card (if the CPU or motherboard does not have a built-in graphics core), power supply and case. Additional components include an optical drive, as well as various discrete devices: network and sound cards, additional cooling.

The motherboard is the basis of any computer. It depends on it which processors will be used, how many RAM modules, video cards and drives can be installed. The dimensions of the motherboard also play an important role when choosing a case. At the moment, among motherboards, the most popular form factor solutions are E-ATX (305 × 330 mm), ATX (305 × 244, 305 × 225 or 305 × 199 mm), mATX (244 × 244, 244 × 225 or 191 × 188 mm) and mini-ITX (170 × 170 mm), although there are much more standard sizes of such devices. The form factor is always indicated in the technical specifications of the cases.

The “housing” itself for components is also divided into types depending on size and shape. As a rule, the larger the computer case, the more efficient hardware we can install in it, while ensuring high-quality cooling of all system components. The dependence, however, is nonlinear - practice shows that it is quite possible to assemble a powerful gaming PC in compact cases with a volume of 7-10 liters. You just have to first select all the components more carefully.

Among PC cases, the most popular are four types of models: Midi-Tower (examples - and ), Full Tower (), Mini-Tower () and Slim Desktop (). Naturally, the more compact the device, the fewer seats it has for installing discrete video cards, drives and case fans. For example, the 10-liter Node 202 can only accommodate 2.5-inch hard drives and SSDs. A conscientious manufacturer indicates all these features in the technical characteristics of the device.

When choosing components, pay attention to other limitations that any computer case has:

• maximum height of the processor cooler;
• maximum video card length;
• maximum length of the power supply.

Before purchasing equipment, be sure to make sure that all devices are compatible with each other, do not conflict, and fit exactly in the computer case. The simplest logical chain that will not allow you to purchase components that do not match each other is as follows:

• We decide on the model of the central processor.
• Select a motherboard with a suitable CPU socket.
• We study the list of compatible motherboard equipment on the official website and select a set of RAM.
• We select drives that are compatible with the motherboard.
• We select a video card, power supply, processor cooling and a case that will accommodate all the components.

Again, the given sequence is by no means an axiom. Since assembling a PC is always a creative process, the sequence of choosing hardware may change. For example, you liked a certain case and want to build your dream system only in it. Or you already have some components on hand and need to buy the rest.

If the system unit will use a maintenance-free water cooling system for the processor or video card, then you will additionally need to find out the sizes of the supported radiators, as well as the locations in which they can be installed. Obviously, the mounting locations for the SVO coincide with the mounting locations for the fans. Single-section radiators are usually installed on the rear wall, two-section and three-section - on the top and/or front.

To write this material, based on the above sequence of component selection, I used the following set of devices:

• CPU AMD Ryzen 7 1700, socket AM4, 3.0 (3.7) GHz;
• MSI X370 GAMING PRO CARBON motherboard, socket AM4, X370 chipset;
• RAM Kingston HyperX Fury (HX426C16FR2K4/32), 4 × 8 GB, DDR4-2666;
• solid state drive;
• video card;
• Cooler Master MasterWatt power supply, 500 W;
• Cooler Master MasterBox 5 MSI Edition case;
• CPU cooling Cooler Master MasterLiquid 120.

As you can see, when preparing this material, the most common form factors are used - ATX for the motherboard and Midi-Tower for the case. Similar options are offered in the “Computer of the Month” - because this standard size is the most universal and is the most popular. True, I can’t say that the assembly process in Mini-Tower and Slim Desktop cases is fundamentally different. It’s just that the requirements for selecting hardware that is compatible with each other are noticeably higher.

Additionally, I would like to note that when selecting devices, all modern trends were taken into account. The main drive is the Kingston HyperX Predator model with a PCI Express interface. And the choice in favor of the Cooler Master MasterBox 5 MSI Edition was made due to the possibility of installing a power supply at the bottom of the chassis, as well as the presence of a mount for drives on the barrier wall. Plus, maintenance-free liquid cooling systems are very popular. Cooler Master MasterLiquid 120 is a bright representative of single-section “water coolers”, which are ready to work right out of the box. The remaining components are selected in such a way that the end result is a productive system unit for work and entertainment. The optical drive was not used. In my opinion, in 2017 there is no need for it, and the Cooler Master MasterBox 5 MSI Edition (as well as many other new cases of a similar format) does not have seats for installing devices in 5.25-inch bays.

To assemble the system unit, you will definitely need two Phillips screwdrivers with different slot diameters, nylon ties and wire cutters. Perhaps pliers will come in handy - in cheap cases, the threads are cut by eye, as well as double-sided adhesive tape, degreasing liquid and cotton swabs. In order to avoid scratching the case and damaging the motherboard, I place all components on a rubber mat. An antistatic bracelet or gloves will also be useful for beginners, but, to be honest, more to give confidence in their own abilities. Since assembling a PC also includes connecting small connectors to the motherboard, you definitely can’t do without good lighting or a flashlight on hand.

⇡ Step No. 1. Installing the processor and RAM

The motherboard user manual always contains a description of the installation of all main components and connectors. Beginners, keep this book with you. The sequence of steps for assembling the system unit may vary depending on the type of components. For example, sometimes it is better to install a processor cooler right away, and sometimes it is better to install it second to last or last. Even before fixing the motherboard in the case, you should install the central processor and RAM in the appropriate slots.

You are probably aware that the design of AMD and Intel processors is noticeably different from each other. Thus, on AMD chips, protruding contacts, called “legs” by hardware, are located directly on the PCB substrate. But Intel chips do not have such elements - for these CPUs the contacts are placed directly in the motherboard socket.

AMD chips are installed very simply: lift the lever, place the processor on a plastic substrate, lower the lever.

As for Intel solutions for LGA115X platforms, a similar technique is used here: together with the lever, we raise the clamping frame, install the processor, lower the lever and the clamping frame.

In the case of Intel LGA2011 and LGA2011-v3 platforms, to raise the clamping frame, you will need to release two levers from the locking slots.

Please note that all central processors and motherboards are equipped with pointers and so-called foolproof protection. In principle, you will not be able to install the chip into the socket in any other way, so NEVER use force when assembling the computer. All elements in the system unit are equipped with protection against incorrect connection. Apart from the CPU, you won't be able to connect any other way to power supply cables, case connectors, fans, discrete devices, drives, or RAM. More precisely, you can, but this will require maximum effort. I think it’s not worth talking about the consequences of incorrect installation of PC components.

After the central processor, I install RAM in the DIMM slots, usually located on the right side of the central processor. MSI X370 GAMING PRO CARBON supports DDR4 RAM; there are four ports on the printed circuit board. Some motherboards may have only two of them (most often these are either the cheapest devices, or mini-ITX form factor solutions, or), in models for the LGA2011 and LGA2011-v3 platforms there are eight. Typically, all DIMM slots are marked on the PCB.

Most modern AMD and Intel processors have dual-channel RAM controllers. That's why motherboards use either two or four DIMM slots. Therefore, it is considered optimal to install either two or four RAM modules. In the first case, RAM is installed through one connector. Some motherboards have special indicators. For example, in the MSI X370 GAMING PRO CARBON, modules are installed in the DIMMA2 and DIMMB2 slots - in this case, the RAM will operate in dual-channel mode. In other motherboards there are inscriptions like , - in such cases, to ensure dual-channel mode, the modules must be installed in the DDR4_A1/DDR4_B1, DIMM_A1/DIMM_B1 and DDR4_1/DDR4_2 slots, respectively.

"Fool proof" for RAM

I have already said that it will not be possible to insert RAM incorrectly, since the design of the DIMM connectors uses a jumper. It is also used to prevent the user from “squeezing” modules of a different standard into a motherboard that supports DDR4.

RAM cards are secured using latches located at the edges of the DIMM slots. Some motherboards only have these latches on one side of the connectors. This is done so that the user can easily change RAM modules without, for example, removing the video card.

After installing the CPU and RAM, you can immediately install a CPU cooler, but only if the design uses a small heatsink. The use of an oversized cooling system will complicate the installation of the motherboard, as well as the subsequent connection of wires. The photo above shows examples of installing boxed coolers—the so-called coolers that are sold together with processors. Coolers for the AMD AM3+ and FM2+ platforms are mounted using plastic “ears” - a special metal bracket with eyes clings to them. Box cooling for Ryzen chips is installed differently; here you will have to work with a screwdriver: first remove the plastic mount, and then screw the radiator to the backplate. The cooler for Intel processors is attached using plastic clips: install the heatsink on the CPU and press the latch until you hear a characteristic click. In general, in the case of installing box cooling systems, even beginners should not have any problems.

Thermal paste is already applied to the base of some coolers - its use significantly increases the efficiency of heat removal from the CPU. In any case, thermal paste is always included with the processor cooler. For example, Cooler Master MasterLiquid 120 came with a small tube, which should nevertheless be enough for 3-4 times. Please be sure to remove the protective film before installing the cooling system, if any, on the base of the device. The process of applying thermal paste is described in point number five.

But the installation of other coolers is done individually, since each manufacturer uses a mounting kit of its own design. Therefore, immediately remove the instructions from the CO packaging. Most devices are equipped with universal mounting mechanisms that fit both AMD and Intel processors. True, the mating part of the mount, which must be pre-fixed on the board, is different for different platforms. The list of supported equipment, as well as the dimensions of the cooler, are always indicated in the technical specifications. And yet there are quite a few models on sale that are compatible with only one specific platform.

Once again: if the device is large or, as in my case, a maintenance-free liquid cooling system is used, then at the first stage it is enough to attach the back plate and frames to the board, which will hold the cooler’s radiator. We will install the radiator itself next to last, after all the cables are connected to the motherboard. Yes, in cases of the Cooler Master MasterBox 5 MSI Edition level, the barrier wall has a window for access to the cooler's backplate, but it is not always convenient to use.

If we talk about air processor coolers, tower type coolers are considered the most popular. Depending on the platform used and the specific model, the CO radiator can be installed in two positions. In the first case, the cooler fan will blow air through the rear wall of the case, in the second case, through the top. The correct installation option is determined by the shape of the housing used. So, in the case of models in Full-, Midi- and Mini-Tower formats, it is better to use the first option. It is important that the used CO does not overlap the expansion slots, and also does not rest against the cooling elements of the motherboard power subsystem. For example, the MSI X370 GAMING PRO CARBON does not conflict with even the largest tower coolers. A wide processor cooler can also prevent the installation of RAM modules with high cooling radiators. Therefore, it is better to use compact RAM kits, such as Kingston HyperX Fury for example, or make 100% sure that CPU cooling and memory will not conflict with each other.

Our assembly uses a maintenance-free liquid cooling system Cooler Master MasterLiquid 120, so its installation will be done penultimately (step No. 5).

The cooler and case fans are connected to the motherboard using 3- and 4-pin connectors. The MSI X370 GAMING PRO CARBON has six such elements soldered at once, which is very convenient. The number of such ports is not regulated in any way, but at least two connectors must be present on the board: for connecting the CPU cooler fan and for the system (case) impeller. All connectors are marked accordingly: CPU_FAN, SYS_FAN (or CHA_FAN). Sometimes the 4-pin connector intended for the processor cooler is highlighted in a different color (usually white). You can also find the PUMP_FAN connector in mid- and high-price boards. It is designed to connect the rotor of a water cooling pump, but at the same time it is suitable for any other fans. It’s just that a greater current is transmitted through this port.

The three-pin connector does not allow you to adjust the speed of the fan connected to it. But the 4-pin port has such an opportunity, and modern motherboards are able to regulate the rotation speed of the “turntables” both with pulse-width modulation (fans with four contacts) and without it (fans with three contacts).

If there is a shortage of connectors for connecting case fans, all kinds of adapters will help. This can be a regular splitter that allows you to connect several impellers to one 3- or 4-pin port at once. Or a cable connected to a MOLEX or SATA connector. There are also devices such as, although their popularity has never been high. However, they are initially equipped with simple (most often three-position) controllers that control the fan speed by lowering the voltage from 12 to 7 or 5 V.

In the case of our PC, there is no need for additional adapters and splitters, since only two CBO fans and one case impeller need to be connected to the motherboard.

⇡ Step No. 2. Installing the motherboard and connecting case connectors

Now that the CPU and RAM are connected to the motherboard, it's time to start working on the case.

For a long time now, in tower cases the power supply has been installed primarily at the bottom. This was done both for aesthetic reasons (it’s more convenient and easier to lay wires) and for the sake of increasing the cooling efficiency, primarily of the PSU itself. However, there are case models on sale with other options for installing the power supply.

Mounting spaces for installing a power supply, 2.5- and 3.5-inch drives

The design of the Cooler Master MasterBox 5 MSI Edition includes a small basket with a slide that can accommodate two 3.5-inch hard drives. More compact 2.5-inch drives are mounted on a barrier wall.

Installing the motherboard begins with fixing the I/O panel plug in a specially designated rectangular hole. You won't have any difficulties. The plug is always included with the motherboard.

Mounting accessories are always supplied with the housing. Along with the Cooler Master MasterBox 5 MSI Edition, I found three types of screws, as well as plastic clips for installing additional fans. Other cases may have more mounting options. On some models, the stand screws required to install the motherboard are already screwed into the corresponding threaded holes on the barrier wall. In the case of Cooler Master MasterBox 5 MSI Edition, you will have to do this procedure yourself.

So, the case supports the installation of motherboards of mini-ITX, mATX, ATX and even E-ATX form factors. There are symbols on the wall (a similar note is used in many models). Since the assembly uses an ATX form factor board, you need to screw all eight stand-up screws into the threaded holes marked with the letter “A”. However, not all motherboards belonging to this standard size meet the length and width parameters of 305 × 244 mm. For example, the MSI X370 GAMING PRO CARBON is narrower by 19 mm, so it cannot be mounted in the case on the right edge. Consequently, when connecting wires from the power supply or installing memory modules in DIMM slots, the textolite will bend. Install these elements more carefully in such cases.

After the motherboard is secured, I personally immediately connect the controls and connectors on the front panel of the case. The front wall of the Cooler Master MasterBox 5 MSI Edition has two USB 3.0 A-type ports, two 3.5 mm mini-jacks for headphones and a microphone, as well as system power and forced reboot keys. Difficulties can arise only when connecting controls - this is a bundle of wires with connectors Power LED- and Power LED+ (transmit information to the computer status indicator), Power SW (responsible for the operation of the power key), HDD LED- and HDD LED+ (transmits information to the drive activity indicator ), as well as Reset SW (responsible for the operation of the forced reboot button). Some elements may not be on the “face” of the case, since not all devices are equipped, for example, with a Reset key or LED indicators. However, in all cases these connectors are connected in a specific sequence, as shown in the table below. It’s just that motherboard manufacturers use their own designations for essentially the same pad: JFP1 in MSI motherboards; PANEL in ASUS; PANEL1 in ASRock and F_PANEL in GIGABYTE.

Power LED+	Power LED-	Power SW	Power SW
HDD LED+	HDD LED-	Reset SW	Reset SW

In addition, among the internal connectors on the motherboard there may be contact pads for connecting USB 3.1 and USB 2.0 ports, RGB strips, a TPM module, FP audio and a speaker.