Are you currently starting your first DIY computer project?  Are you tired of spending money on pre-built computers that become obsolete days after you purchase them?  Building your own computer can be a fun project that will allow you to keep up on computer component trends.  But building your own computer can often be very confusing the first time.  The components inside your computer all need to work together in order for your computer to actually work correctly.  Building your own computer will allow you to save money and get the speed and power you desire, if you know what you are purchasing.  

To make building a computer easy, bare bones computer kits have been created.  A bare bones computer kit usually contains all the basic components you need in order to build your first computer. Before you purchase a kit you do want to confirm what components are included in your kit, some kits do not include the CPU or hard drive.  If you need to purchase a CPU, choose carefully and wisely.  The CPU is one of the most important decisions you will make for your computer.  The central processing unit is probably one of the smallest and definitely one of the most expensive components you will install in your computer but without this component your computer is nothing more than a box full of unusable stuff. 

If you are purchasing a CPU you should confirm that the style of connector and the CPU component itself is compatible with your motherboard.  Many modern CPUs have metallic connectors on the bottom that allow the CPU to attach directly to the motherboard but older motherboards may be missing the necessary connectors.  The modern “snap-in” style of connector also allows for easy upgrades of the CPU in the future.  If you want the ability to upgrade your CPU in the future make sure you avoid purchasing a CPU that is soldered directly to the motherboard. 

You do not need to be a DIY computer expert to know that CPUs get very hot.  In order to help moderate the level of heat around your CPU you need to provide your new computer with air vents, a fan, and a CPU heat sink.  The heat sink will attach directly to the CPU and in many cases is sold with the CPU component.  You will want to follow the instructions provided with your CPU and heat sink to confirm that you install the heat sink correctly.  If you fail to install the CPU and heat sink correctly your computer will not work.  

So where do all this take us?  Even when choosing a bare bones computer kit, you need to know a little about the CPU you are installing.  Even if you never research information on the individual components in your computer spending a little amount of time learning about your CPU is time well spent.  CPUs are a component that you do not usually perform maintenance on but if something goes wrong your entire computer will not work.  Keep your CPU cool and keep up on the latest trends in CPUs and your computer will thank you.