Building a PC can be a daunting task, especially if you haven’t done it before. But by taking a little extra time and being mindful of where things can go wrong, you can successfully get your rig up and running. In this blog post, we’ll take you through three common PC building mistakes and teach you how to avoid them.
Installing the CPU Incorrectly
The CPU acts as the PC’s brain. If the brain is installed incorrectly, the PC will not run. To avoid this mistake, make sure that the CPU is properly seated in its socket (there’s a designated spot for it) and that all pins are aligned correctly.
The CPU and the motherboard have indicators such as patterns or a small triangle to show you which way the CPU should fit. Pay close attention and follow the directions accordingly. If everything is not aligned, you could bend the pins on the CPU. Incorrect installation could result in several problems, including overheating and system failure.
Failing To Build on a Clean, Static-Free Surface
Many new PC builders fail to keep their work area in mind; they might build on a messy table or even on top of carpet. You don’t want to make either of these mistakes when building your PC.
First, carpet could cause static electricity to short circuit something on your PC. You don’t want this to happen—and it can be difficult to diagnose on your own. For this reason, we recommend building your PC in a clean, static-free environment. You can even work on top of a tarp. If you’ve got a clean work area and are still worried about static discharge, use an anti-static wrist wrap.
A clean setting will also help you stay organized. PCs are held together with tiny screws. Losing these in carpet or somewhere right in front of you will only frustrate you and make the build process stressful.
Poor Cable Installation
Although it might seem obvious, new—and even experienced—builders overlook cable management. Before plugging anything in, inspect your cables for any damage that may cause a short or malfunction. Don’t just plug things in randomly: be mindful of how you run cables throughout your PC. You don’t want anything dangling or overcrowding any parts. Poor cable management could cause everything to overheat. Finally, before booting everything up, double check that all cables are snug and in the correct ports.
It’s also important to be mindful of which cables you need. Most brand-new parts will come with everything required. But, if you need cables or want to have extras on hand, don’t sweat it. Did your monitor come with a super short HDMI cable? No problem. Turn to Cable Wholesale, where you can buy HDMI cables online without worry.
