How to build your own PC: A complete step-by-step guide
Whether you’re embarking on your first PC build or you’re a veteran, our in-depth PC building guide has something for everyone
Now that the motherboard is in place and you’re able to supply power to your PC, it’s time to install the graphics card. That is of course, if you want to – many Intel and AMD CPUs have their own on-board GPU, so this isn’t a requirement if you aren’t after a gaming PC. In that case, feel free to skip this step. Otherwise, read on.
Installing a graphics card is actually one of the simplest steps. You’ll want to locate one of the large PCIe x16 slots on the motherboard, specifically the topmost slot, as this will be the fastest. You may also need to remove optional drive bays or cable-hiding panels to make room.
To fit the graphics card, simply line up the card with the top slot, with the card’s fans pointing downwards towards the bottom of the case. Push firmly and evenly across the card to secure the component on the motherboard – you should hear another nice, satisfying click. You’ll then want to screw the graphics card to the backplate for added stability.
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Your graphics card will require separate power from the PSU, using either a six-pin or an eight-pin power connector. All you have to do is connect the two components, and you’re good to go.
How to build your own PC: Installing storage and optical drives
SSDs and hard drives mount in various ways. Some are secured within brackets, while others simply slot into a cage or screw into a mount. Hard drives can get rather hot, so make sure to position them close to your case’s front intake fan, if it has one.
SATA SSDs are best installed on 2.5in mounts behind the motherboard tray or on top of the PSU cover. These mounts usually just require you to screw the SSD’s bottom into the mount with the four included screws and if not, you’ll have to use a drive bay. The same applies to hard drives; the case’s manual should be able to help you with the ideal positioning.
Optical drives (CD, DVD or Blu-ray) are mounted in the front of the case using a 5.25in bay. If you have one, you may need to remove a blanking plate at the front of the case behind the panel covers, then your drive can slide into place and be secured. If possible, remove any drive bay cages you’re not using to help improve the airflow in your case.
Lastly, make sure to mop up some of the other connections you might have missed, hooking up any other parts that need power, such as LED strips, fans, fan controllers and other cooling devices.