Last Updated: 5/4/2009
Introduction
Many 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$500, 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. It will be necessary to buy a monitor and other peripherals such as speakers to complete the system.
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 shopping for the components.
The Budget PC Components
- Case – Rosewill TU-155 Black
A well designed low cost steel desktop tower case that also includes a 400W power supply. The case has many great features that make it very easy to work with.
Buy Direct - Motherboard – ASRock A780GXH/128M
The AMD 780G chipset offers an extremely affordable platform that allows it to run any of the current AM2 or AM2+ compatible AMD processors including the latest Phenom II X4 processors. It also comes with the Radeon HD 3200 integrated graphics.
Buy Direct - Processor – AMD Athlon X2 7850
The Athlon X2 7850 is actually based on the newer Phenom processor technology but only run two core's instead of four. For most people, they don't really need quad core and the extremely low price tag make this an excellent choice.
- Memory – PNY 4GB PC2-6400 DDR Kit
DDR2 memory has come down in price significantly allowing budget systems to easily have 4GB of memory. This allows it to run the Vista operating system without any memory slowdown issues.
Buy Direct - Hard Drive – Western Digital SE 16640GB SATA
Hard drives sizes keep getting bigger and that's great. The Caviar SE16 drive provides a large amount of space with some top tier performance.
Buy Direct - CD/DVD – Samsung SH-S223F 22x DVD+/-RW DL
This low cost DVD burner supports all of the current DVD media standards and has 22x speeds for DVD+/-R media. It uses SATA which is easier to install.
- Keyboard and Mouse - Microsoft Comfort Curve 2000
This keyboard and mouse combo is very inexpensive but provides a good overall feel.
Buy Direct - Operating System – Windows Vista Home Premium 64-Bit
In order to support the current and feature hardware and software, the Vista Home Premiuim software is the best option. The 64-bit version allows it to fully use 4GB and more of memory.
Buy Direct
What Else is Needed
This list of components will make up the heart of the computer system but it still needs a monitor. There are a wide range of monitor sizes but the most afford tend to be the smaller ones. I would reconnec looking at my Best 19-inch LCD Monitors list for a good low cost display.
Putting it All Together
Of 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.
