CPT 122 – Introduction to
computer Hardware
Module 3, Unit 2: Assembling a
Computer System
Building a computer system is a rewarding experience, allowing you
to customize a machine that perfectly fits your needs. This
presentation will guide you through the process of assembling a
computer system, covering each step from component selection to
final setup.
Component Selection
Motherboard
The motherboard is the foundation of your computer system. It holds all the essential
components together and provides the pathways for data to flow between them.
Choose a motherboard that supports your desired CPU, RAM, and storage options.
Step 2: CPU
The CPU is the brain of your computer. It handles all the calculations and
instructions that power your applications and games. Consider your budget and the
types of tasks you plan to perform when choosing a CPU.
RAM
RAM is the computer's short-term memory. More RAM means faster performance for
multitasking and demanding applications. Choose RAM that is compatible with your
motherboard and the speed requirements of your CPU.
Storage
Storage devices hold your operating system, applications, and files. Choose between
hard disk drives (HDDs) for large capacity and affordability, and solid-state drives
(SSDs) for faster performance and quieter operation.
Case Installation
Case Selection
The computer case houses all the components and provides ventilation. Choose a case that is the right size for your
components and that has features like cable management and good airflow.
Motherboard Installation
✓ Install the I/O shield: This metal plate goes in the back of the case and aligns with the ports on your motherboard.
✓ Install the standoffs: Screw these small brass or metal pegs into the case where the motherboard will be installed
✓ Place the motherboard: Carefully lower the motherboard into the case, aligning the ports with the I/O shield and the
standoffs with the mounting holes.
✓ Secure the motherboard: Use the screws provided with your case to secure the motherboard to the standoffs.
Power Supply Connection
✓ Locate the PSU mounting area: Identify the area in your computer case where the PSU will be installed
✓ Positioning the PSU: Insert the PSU into the mounting area with the fan facing downward.
✓ Secure the PSU: Once the PSU is positioned correctly, use the screws provided with your case to secure the PSU in place.
CPU Installation
Open the CPU Socket
Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard. Lift the lever or latch to open the socket.
Identify the Correct Orientation
Look for the arrow or markings on the CPU and the socket to ensure you're inserting the
CPU in the correct orientation. Be very careful not to bend the pins on the CPU.
Install the CPU
Holding the CPU by its edges (avoid touching the pins or contacts), gently place it into the
socket. Ensure it is properly aligned and fits snugly. Do not apply force or wiggle the CPU
once it's in place.
Close the CPU Socket
Lower the socket lever/latch to secure the CPU in place. The lever/latch should close easily;
if you encounter resistance, check the CPU alignment.
CPU Installation Cont.
Apply Thermal Paste
If you are installing an air or liquid CPU cooler, you may need to apply thermal paste to the
CPU lid before attaching the cooler. Follow the instructions provided with the cooler for the
correct application method.
Install the CPU Cooler
Place the cooler on top of the CPU and secure it according to the instructions provided with
the cooler. This may involve attaching mounting brackets, screws, or a retention mechanism
to hold the cooler in place.
Connect the CPU Fan
If your CPU cooler has a fan, connect it to the CPU fan header on the motherboard. Consult
the motherboard manual for the location of the CPU fan header.
RAM Installation
1 Locate the RAM Slots
Identify the RAM slots on your motherboard. They are typically located near the
CPU socket and are longer than other expansion slots.
2 Open the Clips
Depending on your motherboard, you may need to open the clips on both ends of
the RAM slot. Simply push them away from the slot until they snap into place.
3 Align the Notches
Check the notches on the RAM module and the slot to ensure proper alignment.
Most RAM modules have a notch in the middle that corresponds to a key in the slot.
4 Install the RAM
Holding the RAM module by its edges (avoid touching the gold contacts), gently
but firmly push the module straight down into the slot. Apply even pressure on
both ends until you hear and feel the clips snap into place.
Storage Device Installation
Open Your Computer Case 1
Depending on your case, you may need to
remove a side panel to access the internal
components. Consult your case manual for 2 Locate the Drive Bays
specific instructions on how to open it. Identify the drive bays in your case where you
can install the storage device. These bays are
typically located in the front or side of the case
Mount the Storage Device 3 and are designed to hold drives securely.
If you are installing a 2.5-inch SSD or HDD,
you may need to use mounting brackets or
screws to secure it in a drive bay. For 3.5-inch
HDDs, they can slide into dedicated drive 4 Connect the SATA Cable
caddies or brackets directly. Locate an available SATA port on the
motherboard and connect one end of the SATA
data cable to the port. Connect the other end of
Connect the Power Cable 5 the cable to the SATA port on the storage device.
Locate an available SATA power cable from
your power supply unit (PSU) and connect it
to the power port on the storage device. 6 Secure the Cables
Most modern PSUs have SATA power Ensure that the SATA data and power cables are
connectors specifically for drives. connected securely to the storage device to
provide stable connectivity.
GPU Installation
Locate the PCIe Slot
Identify the PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) slot on your
motherboard where you'll install the GPU. PCIe slots are typically longer and have a
locking mechanism to secure the GPU in place.
Remove the PCIe Slot Covers
Some cases may have metal covers on the PCIe slots to protect them. Remove the
appropriate covers to make room for the GPU.
GPU Installation
Prepare your GPU
Carefully remove the GPU from its packaging, handling it by the edges to avoid
damaging the delicate components.
Insert the GPU
Align the GPU with the PCIe slot on the motherboard, ensuring that the connectors at
the bottom of the GPU line up with the slot. Press down gently but firmly until the GPU
is seated securely in the PCIe slot.
Power Supply Unit (PSU) Installation
1 Locate The PSU Mounting Area
Identify the area in your computer case where the PSU will be installed
2 Positioning The PSU
Insert the PSU into the mounting area with the fan facing downward.
3 Secure The PSU
Once the PSU is positioned correctly, use the screws provided with your case to
secure the PSU in place.
4 Connect the power cables
Connect the Motherboard’s main 24-pin power connector, CPU Power connector
usually 4-pin or 8-pin, Storage Drives via the SATA power cables and Other
Components
Final Connections and Boot-Up
Finalise Internal Connections Connect the power button, reset button,
HDD activity LED, and other front panel
connectors to the appropriate pins on
the motherboard.
Double-Check All Connections Before closing up the case, go through
each internal connection to ensure
everything is properly connected.
Organise Cables Proper cable management is important
for airflow and ease of maintenance. Use
cable ties, Velcro straps, or clips to
organise and route cables neatly
