Step-by-Step Guide: Building a Minimalist Computer for Beginners

Because many people ask about how to assemble a computer, this time ByteHub would like to provide a brief guide on how to assemble a computer with minimal specifications. The important thing is that you can assemble the computer so that it can be used first.

After that, you can create your own by upgrading or reassembling it with higher specifications.

For beginners who don't know computer science, they will think that assembling a computer is difficult. Even though it is actually very easy and will certainly give you a sense of satisfaction. Especially if one day you want to have a computer with certain specifications. Basic skills in assembling computers will be very useful when you want to upgrade your computer later.

OK, without much explanation, here we provide a short guide for you so you can assemble a computer with minimalist specifications. Markimul, Let's get started!

1. Determine computer specifications and prepare components

The first thing you need to prepare is to determine the specifications of the computer you want to assemble. Even if you want minimalist specs, you still have to determine everything. For example, when you want to buy a motherboard, make sure the motherboard you use matches the processor you will use.

Or maybe in the future, you want to upgrade, so you need to buy an upgradeable motherboard. Because there are many types of motherboards.

Components that need to be prepared include:

• Motherboard or Mainboard. Make sure the socket matches the processor you choose.
• Processor. Choose a processor that suits your budget and daily needs.
• HSF (Heatsink Fan) Cooler . This is a cooler for the processor.
• RAM. Sufficient capacity to run basic applications.
• Hard Drive or SSD. It is recommended to just use a faster SSD, the price is now cheap.
• Power Supplies. Make sure there is enough power for all computer components.
• Casing. Make sure the size fits the motherboard and other components.

Because we want to assemble a computer with minimalist specifications, we don't use a graphics card ( VGA card ). But if you want to use it, there's no harm in it.

Prepare Supporting Tools

Apart from that, you also need to prepare supporting tools such as screwdrivers, connecting cables, cooling fans, and thermal paste.

Don't forget to do the assembly in a spacious place, either on a table or the floor.

2. Install the Processor and Heatsink Fan



After all the components and equipment have been prepared, the first assembly step that is carried out is to install the processor on the motherboard.

1. Open the processor socket locking clip on the motherboard.
2. Look at the direction and location of the pins under the processor and match them to the holes in the socket.
3. Slowly lower the processor into the socket carefully.
4. Once the processor is installed, relock the socket locking clip.

After that, the processor is installed, apply thermal paste over the processor. For a guide on how to properly apply Thermal Paste, you can read it here.




Then, install the HSF Cooler on top of the processor and make sure its position is right in the middle. Lock the HSF Cooler by turning and pressing the locks on the corners. To make sure the HSF is installed correctly, you can turn the motherboard over and see whether the HSF lock is in the correct locking position.



3. Installing Memory (RAM)

The next step, install the RAM module into the RAM slot available on the motherboard. Make sure the pins on the RAM module match the appropriate slots, then gently press the RAM until the locking clip rises and locks the RAM firmly.



4. Install the Power Supply in the Casing

For the power supply, please install it in the casing according to its location. Don't forget to wash the power supply with the bolts provided.

If you want to add a fan, please install that too.

5. Install the Motherboard into the Case

If the processor and RAM are installed correctly, you can install the motherboard into a computer casing that has been adjusted to the size of the motherboard.



The mainboard bolts to the casing. Make sure the mainboard fits on the Back Panel so that the ports on the mainboard can be seen.



6. Install the cables

If the motherboard is installed, connect the power cable from the power supply to the mother and other components that require power, such as the HDD/SSD, fan, or VGA Card.

You have to be careful with this wiring problem, don't put it in the wrong place. For Power, Reset, hard disk LED, USB panel, and audio cables, they are usually at the bottom. You can see it on the motherboard, there are already codes.

7. Install a Hard Drive or SSD

The next step is to install the hard drive (HDD or SSD) into the case. Bolts on the sides to make it resistant to shock and really installed firmly.



Then plug the power cable from the power supply to the hard drive and the SATA port cable from the HDD/SSD to the motherboard.

If the cables from the motherboard and power supply have been installed correctly, you can tidy up the cables. Can be tied with cable ties according to each route. This is trivial, but it will make it easier for you when problems occur later. And of course, it also looks neat when viewed.

8. Install Graphics Card (Optional)

If you want to use a graphics card (VGA Card), you can install it into the PCI-Express slot on the motherboard. Make sure it is installed firmly and tighten the slot cover if there is one.

9. Test first, then close the casing

If everything is installed, you can test it first before closing the casing. So that if there is a problem, there is no need to open the casing again.

Connect the monitor, keyboard, and mouse to the computer, then also connect the power cable to the power supply. Press the power button and see if the computer turns on properly.

If the computer turns on and enters the BIOS without problems, it means you have succeeded in assembling a minimalist specification computer for beginners. If it has successfully turned on normally, you can close the casing. Arrange the computer on the table that has been prepared.

Don't forget to install the operating system and necessary drivers so that the computer is ready for use. Use an original and legal operating system.

Building a computer is not only a fun activity, but it also provides a deeper understanding of how computers work. If you experience difficulties or have questions, don't hesitate to seek help from experts or write your questions in the comments column below.

Good luck and good luck building your own computer!