Are you anxious to get started with building your own computer but do not know where to start?  After all, the possibilities are endless and you could actually spend weeks doing nothing but research on possible upgrades and computer building projects.  The urge for new can be overwhelming, I know the call.  I hear it all the time.  If you are new to the DIY Computer world you may be wondering where do you start?  Should you upgrade the computer you currently have or do you build an entirely new system.  To determine which path you should take, you first need to take stock in what you currently have.

The best way to determine where to start in you DIY career is to make a list of what you would upgrade in your current computer.  Make this your dream list of everything you would or should upgrade in your computer.  Then start researching and pricing the components.  You need to determine the cost of everything you would upgrade.  And do not forget a new motherboard.  If your current computer is over two years old, plan on upgrading your motherboard to keep up with the current technology advancements.

Once you have a list of everything you want to upgrade in your current computer, compare the cost of your upgrading project to building an entirely new computer.  You can start pricing a new computer by looking at a computer building kit.  It may take a little research but find the kit that would provide you with comparable components to the ones you want to upgrade in your current computer.  Look closely at the components in the kit and the different kits available to find the best possible match to your ideal wish list.  

Ok, now you know what it will cost to replace the components in your current computer and to buy the components to build an entirely new computer and you may be leaning one way or the other based on the price.  It is probably cheeper to upgrade the computer you have now but you should take the time to think about usage as well.  Is your computer being used 24 hours a day by every member of your family and you need a second system?  If so, even if upgrading your current computer may save you some money but it may be better to build another computer.  Match up your price concerns and your usage needs to make a decision that is right for your computer needs.

Building your own computer is a hobby that can be fun and exciting.  Once you begin building and upgrading your computers, you will soon find that you constantly have a project in the works.  Friends and family may start to ask for your help as well.  The best advice you will ever receive in regards to DIY computer work is to keep your budget and your time in mind when determining your computer upgrade projects.  If you watch your budget and your time, you will find an enjoyable hobby that may just lead to a profitable career in computer electronics.