Building your PC from scratch can be a smart idea because it’s often more affordable to buy each component individually. While it takes time and effort to assemble every part correctly, you’ll feel a unique sense of pride and satisfaction when the PC is finally ready. However, some beginners make mistakes that can damage their PC or add unexpected costs. Referring to each component’s product operation manual can be invaluable during this process, as it helps prevent common errors and ensures everything is set up properly. Read on to learn about 7 mistakes that new PC builders should avoid.
1- Ignoring Warranties and Hardware Registration
Newbie PC builders always forget about getting proper warranties for every component they buy and don’t register them at the manufacturer’s website. Doing these two steps is crucial for any possible RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) procedures when one of the components has a defect. PC builders believe that components are always manufactured perfectly, but it is possible to have manufacturing defects from the source itself. . If you’re one of the unlucky ones and you purchased a defective component, then the repairs and returns will be cheap and the process will be easier.
2- Buying and Assembling Incompatible Parts
One of the biggest mistakes that can be quite costly is buying incompatible parts and not knowing that until after you’ve assembled the components. Processors must be compatible with graphics cards and cooling systems, and the CPUs must be compatible with both otherwise, the computer won’t function. If your gaming rig is equipped with a Ryzen 7, experienced PC builders advise newbies to pick the best Ryzen CPU cooler that is designed to work with the 3700X, 3800X, or 3800XT versions. Every component in a PC is linked in one way or another and that connection must be compatible, or else the computer won’t start or you will experience performance issues. It’s important you find electronic parts suppliers for compatible parts.
3- Installing Memory Sticks Incorrectly
The number of memory sticks in a PC varies, but installing them incorrectly will not allow you to get the most out of the memory stick. Whether you purchase 2, 3, or 4 RAM sticks, install them spaced one slot apart from each other on the motherboard. Beginners can read the motherboard manual thoroughly or watch online tutorial videos to know how to place each stick. Newbies tend to forget to stick them all the way down until the clips of each side come down, ensuring that the memory sticks will work properly.
4- Using the Wrong Amount of Thermal Paste
Thermal paste is a silver or light green substance that minimizes any overheating issues, but applying too much or too little on the processor is bad. The paste is designed to efficiently transfer heat from the processor to the cooler component to dissipate it, but the amount you apply must be the size of half a pea. The CPU heatsink will evenly spread it all when you mount it on top properly. The last thing you need is improper coverage or spillage that will gunk up the surrounding sockets.
5- Buying a Cheap Power Supply Unit
The power supply unit is the last component that you should ever consider buying at a cheap cost. Most of the very cheap ones have an unknown manufacturer or are a no-name brand. This is dangerous because not only can you damage your PC, but it can also cause a fire at home. Try not to fall for this life-threatening mistake and always purchase high-quality PSUs from reputable brands before you install and turn on your PC.
6- Improper Fan Installation
Beginners can install fans improperly and that can lead to poor airflow. Read the manual thoroughly to know the right direction for the fan to push air properly. Fans must push air toward the top of the PC case or the back of it. This will minimize overheating and ensure proper airflow inside the case.
7- Not Removing the Plastic Sticker on Components
Most components come with a small plastic sticker or cover on top of them. Beginners believe that these stickers provide some sort of protection, but they don’t, and leaving them on can cause issues. Keeping them on means the components will have a barrier blocking the cooling mechanism, leading to possible overheating issues over time. Some covers have a sign that tells you to remove them, but consider removing it yourself when you don’t see any writings.
No matter how minor or catastrophic the mistake is, the goal is to learn from it and try not to repeat it again. First-timers will find the process stressful and nerve-wracking if they don’t research beforehand, even though building a PC isn’t as complex as it was many years ago. Learning these 7 mistakes can prevent you from messing up your PC and help you build the gaming rig of your dreams.
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