Free Download Internet tools: How to Build a Media PC

With entertainment steadily becoming more and more web-centric, the possibility of centralizing all of your TV, Internet, digital photos and video games into one hub is very appealing. Learning how to build a Media PC can save you hundreds of dollars and get you a much more powerful system than buying a pre-built one.

Steps

Figure out what your Media PC is going to primarily be used for. Is it TV? Gaming? Photo editing? Or a mix of all of them? Once you've figured out what the primary use is you can make a list of the parts you're going to buy.
- Make a checklist to ensure you get every part you need, and be sure to include the following parts: computer case, motherboard, processor (CPU), hard drive, RAM, graphics card, power supply unit (PSU) and CD/DVD drive (preferably one that both reads and writes). You will also need a monitor, keyboard, mouse, speakers and a TV tuner if you plan on watching or recording live TV on your computer.
Buy the parts you need. The best place to buy computer parts is on the Internet (see links at the bottom of the page). They provide the best deals, great shipping and great return policies. Be sure to be aware that some parts may rarely be non-functional (DOA or "dead on arrival") when they arrive, so a good return policy is important.
Assemble your Media PC. After figuring out all the parts you need and which ones are compatible with each other, this is the tricky part.
- Take out your motherboard and put your CPU and RAM in. Be careful when putting your CPU in to follow the instructions exactly. It's very fragile and breaks very easily. Be sure to install a heat sink or fan as well.
- Insert your hard drive, power supply and CD/DVD drive into your case. Carefully screw in your motherboard at the indicated locations. Plug the proper power cords into place on the motherboard and connect the hard drive and CD/DVD drive to it as well. At this point insert your graphics card and any other optional parts. Be sure to plug any case indicator lights into your motherboard.
- Plug your computer into a surge protector after everything is in place (don't close the case up yet) and start it up after hooking it up to the monitor and other peripherals. If everything boots up normally, insert your Windows disk and follow the instructions to install. You may now close your case.

Tips

Once you've decided to build a computer, check around regularly for deals. Most retailers, especially online ones, are constantly having sales events, which will save you literally hundreds of dollars.
When figuring out how to build a Media PC, a balanced mix of parts looks something like this: 4GB of RAM, 500GB hard drive, dual-core processor over 2.4 gigahertz and a 512MB graphics card that's less than 4 years old. Also, if you're going to be watching a lot of TV, buy a monitor that's at least 21 inches. Consider adding a speaker system with a subwoofer and higher-quality speakers as well.
You don't have to buy the latest stuff, but be sure that you buy parts that are compatible with each other. The most important first thing to buy is your motherboard. After you decide on a motherboard, check to see what parts it's compatible with. The specifications will tell you what kind of processor, RAM, hard drive and case will work. Also, getting a larger motherboard is usually safer, as it allows expansion in the future.
When considering operating systems, the best option is Windows 7 64-bit. 64-bit allows for faster computing and greater future expansion. Be sure to make sure the programs you need are compatible with it, first, though.

Warnings

Computer components are extremely fragile and vulnerable to dropping and static electricity. When putting your computer together be sure to do it on an un-carpeted surface to avoid static electricity. Make sure that you wear the anti-static wrist bracelet and have it grounded, probably to an exposed metal part on the inside of the case. Also, hold all components by their edges (do not touch any of the exposed metal parts) because oils from your hands can interfere with the connection.