My first build, need some help

[john122]

All parts are expected to arrive friday from neweggs.com. Parts are:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131172
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817153052
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231098
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103066
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835100007
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835186019
I already have a good case and OS and Drives and so on.

Now, I never built a PC before so I was woundering if some one can list some steps that I can follow, or know of a site with steps already layed out that you can point me too.

 

[jsc]

I recommend breadboarding the system before you install the parts inside the case. That will let you test parts before you install them into the case.

RTFM (Read The Freakin' Manual). Even if you choose not to breadboard the system, install the CPU, HSF, and memory before you put the motherboard inside the case. That will let you check that the HSF is properly installed. Memory sometimes can take what I regard as an unreasonable amount of force to install. It's easier with the motherboard supported on a flat surface outsie the case.

Doublecheck that you have the correct number of metal standoffs located under the motherboard mounting holes. A metal standoff in the wrong place can short out the motherboard. Do not overtighten the mounting screws. You can damage the motherboard.

The i/o shield for the back of the case can be difficult to install. Have patience.

Double check all the cable connectors.

If you have problems:
http://www.tomswiki.com/page/Troubleshooting+a+New+Build

 

[akhilles]

http://www.corsair.com/systembuild/report.aspx?report_id=12472

 

[g-paw]

Second jsc, RTFM. Follow it step by step. There are good how to articles out there but when actualing building you'll be using the manual. Keep the online manual up as well, much easier to read both text and pictures. Take your time, have fun and don't sacrifice beer to the computer gods until it boots. After you install Windows install the mobo drivers off the disk using the Auto install most have. You can always upgrade later. I install my Firewall right after Windows Updates but don't install my anti virus until all other software is installed and updated. Best to install without your anti virus running.

 

[chuckm]

I agree with others, assemble as descibed before installing in the case. I only use 1 stick of ram, set ram settings in bios, if that's needed and go from there. Take your time and enjoy the experience, get the first one built and you'll be hooked. Good luck

 

[john122]

Thanks for the help. It came in thursday, I've been working on it for a while now but found out the PSU will not fit in the case. Do you guys know what case I should get that's easy to install the hardware in and is cheap? (50 shipped tops) EDIT: found this one looks easy http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811119115

Is it safe to run it with just the motherboard bolted in and have the psu layed out till I get the case or is that risky?

It also didnt have the right socket for the front end powerbutton so the whole case was a desaster. How would I be able to turn it on with out using the power button if it's safe?

 

[systemlord]

Heres the case you want.

Blue http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811119047 $49.99

Silver http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811119068 $49.99

 

[nvalhalla]

yes you can use the psu outside of the case, just be careful. as for turning it on, you will have to short a psu pin (pin 14?) to ground, I think. someone else will have to help you with that, I can't remember exactly which pin it is.

look at the coolermaster centurian 534. its on sale at the egg for $20 after a small rebate.

 

[nvalhalla]

here's the promo code for the case

 EMCABBACG

and its $15 after a $15 mail in rebate. unbeatable price for a really nice case.

 

[john122]

Nice cases, I bought the centurian 534. Just to make sure which would be better to place the mother board on to run it, counter top or flooring tile?

 

[systemlord]

Nice cases, I bought the centurian 534. Just to make sure which would be better to place the mother board on to run it, counter top or flooring tile?

I would choose the counter top.