First system build: Tips

Shawxn

I'm starting a new build based off off a GIGABYTE GA-EP35-DS3R motherboard, and I was wondering if it requires a sound card. also, I have a few more quick questions:

1. what is a good website with tutorials and stuff on how to put together a computer. I know the general process and I've installed RAM and a graphics card before, but I feel like i'd have a smaller chance of screwing something up with some more specifics.

2. should i really get an anti-static strap? it seems like kind of a waste of money. What can I do to prevent static shock, besides not building on carpet?

Dehumanized

You don't really need a static strap, but if you're uncertain about how to go about safely handling hardware, it might be a good idea. Make sure to work on clean surfaces, and always touch the metal chassis of your computer case before touching any components that're at risk of static damage.

I'm not sure of any decent tutorials, but recommend doing the following things:
1. Go slow. It's your first time putting together a computer, don't rush into installing any things and try to think your installation through multiple steps in advance. For example, installing your video card might make it harder to seat your hard drive. If you take your time, you should be able to figure out the easiest way to install everything.
2. Don't force anything. Computer components are almost all "keyed" so you can only put them in one correct way. If anything doesn't slide/click into place, then you're probably doing it wrong. The only current exception I can think of is Socket 775 cooling fans, which are a total pain in the ass to install.
3. Go over the documentation, THEN install things. Especially for your motherboard. That manual they ship with it contains a ton of really useful information about how you should install things, how you can get the best performance out of things, and is likely an all around good read.


EDIT: Your motherboard does have integrated sound. You don't, therefore, need a sound card. However, some people really can't stand the quality of onboard sound. Realtek's newer HD Audio onboard is pretty decent quality, and that seems to be what's on your mobo. Try it out, then decide if you want a discrete sound card. YMMV.

Shawxn

one more thing: The last couple reviews for the motherboard on newegg have been DOA problems, and listed as less than one day of use. This makes me think there was a bad batch that went through QA. Is this a legitimate concern? If so, what is a decent (cheap-ish) alternative motherboard with good OCing headroom, and support for at least 1.9V for RAM? Thanks for the help!

tachyon

Only thing I can say is make sure and test the build before you close up the case. I had a motherboard that wasn't properly grounded cause me some trouble, but most of the time was wasted opening and closing the case.

Leave the guts hanging out and make sure you post before you claim victory.

fightinfilipino

hmm...if you're going with a P35 based board, why not go with the Abit IP35 Pro? i know it's a bit more expensive, but it is the favorite P35 board for stability, features, etc.

Daedalus

fightinfilipino wrote: »

hmm...if you're going with a P35 based board, why not go with the Abit IP35 Pro? i know it's a bit more expensive, but it is the favorite P35 board for stability, features, etc.

ABit's been going downhill recently. I've heard more good things about the Gigabyte board. Regardless, if anything's DOA Newegg will replace it; they're really good about that.

Biggest newbie mistake: don't forget the motherboard standoffs. Your case will come with some little thingys that look like screws with a hole in the top for you to put another screw into it. Those are the motherboard standoffs. You put them into the holes on the motherboard panel on your case, then you put the motherboard on them, then you screw the motherboard to them. If you screw the motherboard directly to your case, it will short.

That's the most common new builder mistake, though. Dodge that one and you'll probably be fine.