PC Building Guides

Expert tutorials to help you build your dream PC.

Deep Dive Topics

How to Choose a CPU

Understanding cores, threads, and clock speeds. Should you go Intel or AMD for your specific needs? We break it down.

GPU Installation

Step-by-step guide to safely installing your graphics card.

RAM Speeds

DDR4 vs DDR5 and what XMP/EXPO profiles mean for performance.

Cable Management 101

Tips and tricks to keep your build looking clean and ensuring proper airflow. Don't let the spaghetti win.

Cooling Basics

Air cooling vs Liquid cooling (AIO). How to set up fan curves for silence and performance.

Interactive Build Checklist

Having Issues?

1. Check if the PSU switch is flipped to 'I' (On).
2. Ensure the power cable is firmly plugged into the wall and PSU.
3. Verify the Front Panel connectors (Power SW) are plugged into the correct pins on the motherboard.

1. Ensure your monitor is plugged into the GPU, not the motherboard (unless using iGPU).
2. Reseat the RAM sticks. Push until you hear a click.
3. Check if the GPU power cables are fully seated.

1. Check CPU temperature in BIOS if possible. Cooler might not be mounted correctly.
2. Try booting with only one stick of RAM.
3. Clear CMOS (remove motherboard battery for 5 mins).

1. Check if your SSD/HDD is connected (SATA power & data).
2. Ensure your USB installation media is plugged in if you haven't installed Windows yet.
3. Check boot order in BIOS.

1. Check if the CPU cooler plastic peel was removed.
2. Ensure thermal paste was applied.
3. Verify case fans are oriented correctly (intake vs exhaust).

1. Note the error code (e.g., MEMORY_MANAGEMENT).
2. Update all drivers and Windows.
3. Test RAM stability with MemTest86.

1. Install LAN/Wi-Fi drivers from the motherboard manufacturer's website.
2. Screw in the Wi-Fi antennas if using wireless.
3. Check ethernet cable integrity.

1. Adjust fan curves in BIOS to be less aggressive.
2. Check for cables hitting fan blades.
3. Ensure the PC has good airflow so fans don't have to spin max speed.

1. Update BIOS to the latest version (improves memory compatibility).
2. Ensure RAM is in the correct slots (usually 2nd and 4th).
3. Try a lower frequency manually if the profile is unstable.