How to Build a Gaming PC

By; Chiagoziem Igwe

 Introduction

Gaming has become a massive industry, and the number of gamers worldwide has grown
exponentially over the past few years. As such, the demand for high-quality gaming systems has
increased too. A good gaming PC is essential for any gamer to fully enjoy the gaming
experience. A well-built PC can provide high-quality graphics, smooth gameplay, and faster load
times, offering a much more immersive experience than consoles or lower-end computers.

Building a good PC for gaming offers several advantages. Pre-built gaming PCs can be
expensive, and the components they come with may not be the best for gaming. Building a
gaming PC allows gamers to select their components, which can help them save money while
ensuring they get the best performance for their budget. Additionally, custom-built gaming PCs
can offer more customization options, enhancing the gaming experience even further.

Another reason why building a good PC for gaming is essential is future-proofing. As

technology evolves and game graphics become more advanced, the hardware requirements for
gaming are also increasing. A gaming PC built with high-quality components can last several
years without becoming outdated, making it more cost-effective in the long run. Upgrading
individual components like the graphics card or processor is easier than replacing the entire
system, allowing gamers to keep up with the latest technology without having to invest in a new
PC.

In conclusion, building a good PC for gaming is essential for any gamer who wants to
experience the full potential of modern games. A well-built PC can offer superior graphics,
smoother gameplay, and faster loading times, providing a more immersive gaming experience.
Building a gaming PC from scratch allows gamers to choose their components and customize
their system, making it more cost-effective than pre-built gaming PCs. Future-proofing the
system is also easier, as individual components can be upgraded to keep up with new technology,
ensuring that the system remains relevant for several years.
 Materials List

Tools

● Screwdrivers
● Anti-static wrist strap
● Thermal paste
● Cable ties
● Needle-nose pliers
● Flashlight
● Scissors
● Work mat

Parts

● Computer Case*
● Power Supply Unit (PSU)
● Motherboard*
● Central Processing Unit (CPU)
● Random Access Memory (RAM)
● Storage Drive
● Graphics Card*
● Cooling System
● Peripherals (Mouse, Keyboard, Monitor, Speakers, etc.)
● Operating System (Windows, MacOS, or Linux)**

*Please keep in mind the sizes of these parts so that everything fits in the case.

**Install with a USB or disc.

 Step 1: Preparation

1. Gather the necessary materials and tools. You will need a

computer case, power supply unit (PSU), motherboard,
central processing unit (CPU), random access memory
(RAM), storage drive, graphics card, cooling system,
peripherals, and operating system. You will also need
screwdrivers, an anti-static wrist strap, thermal paste,
cable ties, tweezers, needle-nose pliers, flashlight,
scissors, thermal compound cleaner, and a work mat.
2. Choose a work area that is clean, well-lit, and has plenty of
space to work in. Lay out your tools and materials in an
organized manner to make them easy to find.1
3. Put on your anti-static wrist strap to protect your
components from electrostatic discharge (ESD).

1 Olson, T. Father And Son Buying Tools In Hardware Store. https://www.dreamstime.com/stock-photo-father-son-buying-tools-

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 Part 2: Assembly

4. Remove the side panel of the computer case by

unscrewing the screws on the back of the case. Place the
panel aside in a safe place.
5. Install the PSU into the bottom of the case and secure it
with screws. Connect the necessary power cables to the
PSU.
6. Install the motherboard into the case, being careful not to
scratch the circuit board. Secure it in place with screws.
7. Install the CPU into the motherboard's socket, following
the manufacturer's instructions. Apply a small amount of
thermal paste to the CPU to ensure efficient heat transfer.
Attach the CPU cooler on top of the CPU and secure it with
screws.

8. Install the RAM modules into the motherboard's slots.

Press down on each module until it clicks into place.
 Part 2: Assembly
9. Install the storage drive into the case, securing it with
screws. Connect the necessary cables from the storage
drive to the motherboard and PSU.
10. Install the graphics card into the appropriate PCIe
slot on the motherboard. Secure it with screws and
connect any necessary power cables to the PSU. *

* This is what PCIe slots look like

 Part 3: Cable Management

11. Organize the cables inside the case using cable ties

to improve airflow and aesthetics. Be sure to leave room

for the cooling system.

12. Connect the peripherals, such as the keyboard,

mouse, monitor, and speakers, to the appropriate ports on

the motherboard.

13. Connect the power cable to the PSU and turn on the

power switch on the back of the PSU.

14. Boot up the PC and enter the BIOS to make sure all

the components are recognized and functioning properly. If

everything looks good, proceed to installing the operating

system.

While organizing the cables inside the case, be cautious not to pull the cables too

tightly or strain the connectors. Excessive tension can damage the cables or put

unnecessary stress on the ports and connectors, which may result in poor

performance or even component failure.

 Part 4: Installing the OS

I recommend Windows, less stressful to install.

15. Insert the operating system (OS) installation disc or

USB drive into the appropriate port on the PC.

16. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the OS.

17. Once the OS is installed, install any necessary drivers

and updates.

And that’s it! Enjoy gaming on your new PC!

 Glossary
Central Processing Unit (CPU) - the brains of the computer

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) - the release of static electricity when

two objects come into contact

Motherboard - the main circuit board that connects all the hardware

components and allows communication between them.

Operating System (OS) - the software that manages the hardware

resources and provides a user interface for interacting with the PC

Random Access Memory (RAM) - a system unit that stores and

manipulates data

Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe) - a high-

speed bus that allows installation of expansion cards

Power Supply Unit (PSU) - supplies electricity to the computer by

converting AC power to DC power with the right voltages

Thermal Paste - a heat-conductive material applied between the

CPU and cooler to ensure efficient heat transfer