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Related ResourcesInformation From Other About SitesKeyboard Buyer's Guide from PC PeripheralsMouse Buyer's Guide from PC PeripheralsInstalling Windows from PC Support DIY: Budget PC GuideA Recommended List of Components for Building a Low Cost PCLast Updated: 1/24/2008 IntroductionMany people don't realize how easy it is to put together a computer system from parts. In fact, many systems that users build can outperform purchased desktop computer systems. The biggest challenge of putting together a computer system is typically finding what parts to buy. That is where this guide comes in. This is really a guideline for those looking to put together their own computer system but don't want to break the bank. For under US$700, it is possible to to put together a highly functional computer system that works extremely well for general purpose computing such as internet access, office applications and even digital photography. Below is a list of parts that I have selected that can be used to put together such a system. It includes all of the parts that are internal to the computer plus the operating system. Items such as a monitor, mouse and keyboard also need to be purchased. Remember that this is just a guide of recommended products. There are many alternative components available that will perform just as well. In addition to the name of the item, a link is included for price comparison shopping for the components. The Budget PC Components
What Else is NeededThis list of components will make up the heart of the computer system, but it still needs a few parts. For ideas on purchasing a mouse and keyboard, check out the Keyboard Buying Guide and Mouse Buying Guide from the About.com PC Peripherals Guide. A display is also needed in order to get the system up and running. For this, I recommend checking out my selection for the Best 19-inch LCD Monitors. Putting it All TogetherOf course, once you have all the parts, the computer system will have to be assembled and installed. Tutorials on the various steps required to install the parts together into the computer system can be found in one of two ways. I have available a 5-day E-mail Newsletter Course that puts the steps in a logical order or you can just dive right into the individual Tutorials themselves. Related ResourcesInformation From Other About SitesKeyboard Buyer's Guide from PC PeripheralsMouse Buyer's Guide from PC PeripheralsInstalling Windows from PC Support |
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