Here are the steps you can follow to build a PC:
1. Choose the hardware. This requires your need, budget, and other limits. For example, a PC for gaming usually requires a high single-core performance CPU and a decent GPU, one as a server usually needs more CPU cores, and one for office work can focus on low power consumption and noise. Other limits include the maximum load of your outlets, the available space for the PC, the need to move the PC around frequently, noise tolerance, etc. Games usually provide their minimum and recommended CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage. You can then find out the requirements for cooling and power supply according to the reviews of these components. There are also many users sharing their hardware and needs, which you can refer to.

2. Prepare the tools. Building a PC usually needs a Philips head screwdriver (a full set of screwdrivers is better), a clean work surface, thermal paste, tapes, zip ties, and the installation media for your operating system such as a USB flash drive. Prepare a monitor, mouse, and keyboard to test the PC. It is also recommended to use an anti-static wrist wrap to avoid damaging the hardware.

3. Install the CPU. Release the tension lever for the CPU on the motherboard. For the most recent AMD (AM5) and Intel platforms that have pins in the socket, also lift up the metal retaining bracket. Older AMD AM4 platforms (for Ryzen 5000 or older CPU) have pins on the bottom of the CPU instead, so be careful not to bend them. There will be an arrow/triangle on one corner of the top of the CPU, which needs to line up with the triangle on the socket or socket cover. After aligning the CPU with the socket, gently place the CPU in place, and it should settle down with its own gravity. If not, try again, and never force it into the socket. Then, drop the retaining bracket down and press the tension lever back down. 

4. Install the cooler. Some coolers already have the thermal paste applied. For others, apply some thermal paste onto the top of the CPU, and a pattern of "X" is often used. Don't forget to peel the protective film off the cold plate/paste area. The installation of the cooler itself can vary a lot between brands, and it is recommended to follow the provided manuals. Some large air coolers can hang over the RAM slots, and you can first follow the next step to install the RAM. Then, install the fans if not provided, and plug the CPU fan connector into its header on the motherboard which is usually labeled something like "CPU_FAN". Liquid AIO coolers need to be connected to "CPU_PUMP" or similar headers.

5. Install the RAM. Check the manual of the motherboard to find out which slots to use for different numbers of RAM sticks. RAM slots have latches on one or both sides. Push them open and make sure that the small notch on the bottom of the RAM stick is aligned with the matching bump of the slot, then insert the stick into the slot and push down until it snaps into place, causing the latches to close.

6. Install the M2 SSDs. The manual of the motherboard should also show the supported types of drives and of slots and which slots to use for different numbers. Some motherboards have heatsinks over the slots which should be removed first. Also, remove the screw located across from the M.2 slot if there is any, and slide the SSD with its notch aligned with the bump in the slot. Slowly push the SSD flat and screw the mounting screw back into the hole aligned with a semicircular notch at the end of the SSD. Some motherboards use small plastic tabs instead of screws, which can be simply pushed to the side when installing the SSD and back after. 

7. Install the whole motherboard. Remove the side panels on the chassis. Fit the I/O shield into the chassis if the motherboard doesn't have one pre-attached, and clear the metal bits on it blocking the ports. Make sure the motherboard standoffs in the board mounting area match the holes on the motherboard. Finally, place the motherboard in, and put the screws through the holes on the motherboard and into standoffs to fix it.

8. Install the power supply (PSU). The chassis usually has a dedicated place for the PSU, but might have a bracket that needs to be re-installed to place the PSU in. If you are using a modular power supply, or one without pre-connected cables, check the manual to choose and plug in the cables before screwing the PSU in. Then, route the 24-pin power connector and supplemental/CPU power connector through your case and plug them into the corresponding header on the motherboard. 
 
9. Install the SATA drives. The chassis can have brackets to mount SATA drives, or you will need some tapes or zip ties to hold them. Connect them to the SATA the motherboard SATA ports, and the SATA power connector of the PSU for 3.5-inch HDDs.

10. Install the graphics card/GPU. Check the motherboard manual to find the proper PCIe slot for your GPU, match the notch on the GPU to the bump in it, and push the GPU in, which is similar to installing RAM. Connect the PCIe power connectors from the power supply to those on the card if there are any. Large GPUs such as RTX 4090 can be installed after other cables are connected as they can block access to most of the motherboard, and they may also need support brackets.

11. Connect other cables. This includes RGB controller cables, chassis fan cables, cables for the front-panel ports such as USB and audio, etc. Check the motherboard manual for the corresponding ports on the motherboard.

12. Test the PC. Plug the PC in. Connect the monitor, keyboard, and mouse. The monitor should be connected to the port on the graphics card instead of the motherboard if one is installed. Turn on the monitor, and the power supply switch which is on the back of the PSU, and then press your PC's power button. The PC should turn on and run its POST if everything works. You can then plug in the USB install drive or other media. If the system can't access the installation drive, you may need to navigate to the BIOS to make sure it can be identified and is at the first of the boot order.

13. Cable management. This is not necessary, but looks better and can be helpful for future upgrades. Loose cables may also get into the airflow or hit the fans.


This is only an overall description of building a PC, and some steps can get more complicated. Feel free to ask me for more details later!
Here are the steps you can follow to build a PC:
1. Choose the hardware. This requires your need, budget, and other limits. For example, a PC for gaming usually requires a high single-core performance CPU and a decent GPU, one as a server usually needs more CPU cores, and one for office work can focus on low power consumption and noise. Other limits include the maximum load of your outlets, the available space for the PC, the need to move the PC around frequently, noise tolerance, etc. Games usually provide their minimum and recommended CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage. You can then find out the requirements for cooling and power supply according to the reviews of these components. There are also many users sharing their hardware and needs, which you can refer to.

2. Prepare the tools. Building a PC usually needs a Philips head screwdriver (a full set of screwdrivers is better), a clean work surface, thermal paste, tapes, zip ties, and the installation media for your operating system such as a USB flash drive. Prepare a monitor, mouse, and keyboard to test the PC. It is also recommended to use an anti-static wrist wrap to avoid damaging the hardware.

3. Install the CPU. Release the tension lever for the CPU on the motherboard. For the most recent AMD (AM5) and Intel platforms that have pins in the socket, also lift up the metal retaining bracket. Older AMD AM4 platforms (for Ryzen 5000 or older CPU) have pins on the bottom of the CPU instead, so be careful not to bend them. There will be an arrow/triangle on one corner of the top of the CPU, which needs to line up with the triangle on the socket or socket cover. After aligning the CPU with the socket, gently place the CPU in place, and it should settle down with its own gravity. If not, try again, and never force it into the socket. Then, drop the retaining bracket down and press the tension lever back down. 

4. Install the cooler. Some coolers already have the thermal paste applied. For others, apply some thermal paste onto the top of the CPU, and a pattern of "X" is often used. Don't forget to peel the protective film off the cold plate/paste area. The installation of the cooler itself can vary a lot between brands, and it is recommended to follow the provided manuals. Some large air coolers can hang over the RAM slots, and you can first follow the next step to install the RAM. Then, install the fans if not provided, and plug the CPU fan connector into its header on the motherboard which is usually labeled something like "CPU_FAN". Liquid AIO coolers need to be connected to "CPU_PUMP" or similar headers.

5. Install the RAM. Check the manual of the motherboard to find out which slots to use for different numbers of RAM sticks. RAM slots have latches on one or both sides. Push them open and make sure that the small notch on the bottom of the RAM stick is aligned with the matching bump of the slot, then insert the stick into the slot and push down until it snaps into place, causing the latches to close.

6. Install the M2 SSDs. The manual of the motherboard should also show the supported types of drives and of slots and which slots to use for different numbers. Some motherboards have heatsinks over the slots which should be removed first. Also, remove the screw located across from the M.2 slot if there is any, and slide the SSD with its notch aligned with the bump in the slot. Slowly push the SSD flat and screw the mounting screw back into the hole aligned with a semicircular notch at the end of the SSD. Some motherboards use small plastic tabs instead of screws, which can be simply pushed to the side when installing the SSD and back after. 

7. Install the whole motherboard. Remove the side panels on the chassis. Fit the I/O shield into the chassis if the motherboard doesn't have one pre-attached, and clear the metal bits on it blocking the ports. Make sure the motherboard standoffs in the board mounting area match the holes on the motherboard. Finally, place the motherboard in, and put the screws through the holes on the motherboard and into standoffs to fix it.

8. Install the power supply (PSU). The chassis usually has a dedicated place for the PSU, but might have a bracket that needs to be re-installed to place the PSU in. If you are using a modular power supply, or one without pre-connected cables, check the manual to choose and plug in the cables before screwing the PSU in. Then, route the 24-pin power connector and supplemental/CPU power connector through your case and plug them into the corresponding header on the motherboard. 
 
9. Install the SATA drives. The chassis can have brackets to mount SATA drives, or you will need some tapes or zip ties to hold them. Connect them to the SATA the motherboard SATA ports, and the SATA power connector of the PSU for 3.5-inch HDDs.

10. Install the graphics card/GPU. Check the motherboard manual to find the proper PCIe slot for your GPU, match the notch on the GPU to the bump in it, and push the GPU in, which is similar to installing RAM. Connect the PCIe power connectors from the power supply to those on the card if there are any. Large GPUs such as RTX 4090 can be installed after other cables are connected as they can block access to most of the motherboard, and they may also need support brackets.

11. Connect other cables. This includes RGB controller cables, chassis fan cables, cables for the front-panel ports such as USB and audio, etc. Check the motherboard manual for the corresponding ports on the motherboard.

12. Test the PC. Plug the PC in. Connect the monitor, keyboard, and mouse. The monitor should be connected to the port on the graphics card instead of the motherboard if one is installed. Turn on the monitor, and the power supply switch which is on the back of the PSU, and then press your PC's power button. The PC should turn on and run its POST if everything works. You can then plug in the USB install drive or other media. If the system can't access the installation drive, you may need to navigate to the BIOS to make sure it can be identified and is at the first of the boot order.

13. Cable management. This is not necessary, but looks better and can be helpful for future upgrades. Loose cables may also get into the airflow or hit the fans.


This is only an overall description of building a PC, and some steps can get more complicated. Feel free to ask me for more details later!
user
Here are the steps you can follow to build a PC:
1. Choose the hardware. This requires your need, budget, and other limits. For example, a PC for gaming usually requires a high single-core performance CPU and a decent GPU, one as a server usually needs more CPU cores, and one for office work can focus on low power consumption and noise. Other limits include the maximum load of your outlets, the available space for the PC, the need to move the PC around frequently, noise tolerance, etc. Games usually provide their minimum and recommended CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage. You can then find out the requirements for cooling and power supply according to the reviews of these components. There are also many users sharing their hardware and needs, which you can refer to.

2. Prepare the tools. Building a PC usually needs a Philips head screwdriver (a full set of screwdrivers is better), a clean work surface, thermal paste, tapes, zip ties, and the installation media for your operating system such as a USB flash drive. Prepare a monitor, mouse, and keyboard to test the PC. It is also recommended to use an anti-static wrist wrap to avoid damaging the hardware.

3. Install the CPU. Release the tension lever for the CPU on the motherboard. For the most recent AMD (AM5) and Intel platforms that have pins in the socket, also lift up the metal retaining bracket. Older AMD AM4 platforms (for Ryzen 5000 or older CPU) have pins on the bottom of the CPU instead, so be careful not to bend them. There will be an arrow/triangle on one corner of the top of the CPU, which needs to line up with the triangle on the socket or socket cover. After aligning the CPU with the socket, gently place the CPU in place, and it should settle down with its own gravity. If not, try again, and never force it into the socket. Then, drop the retaining bracket down and press the tension lever back down. 

4. Install the cooler. Some coolers already have the thermal paste applied. For others, apply some thermal paste onto the top of the CPU, and a pattern of "X" is often used. Don't forget to peel the protective film off the cold plate/paste area. The installation of the cooler itself can vary a lot between brands, so follow the instructions from the manufacturer.

5. Install the RAM. The RAM slots are usually labeled on the motherboard, and the notch on the RAM should line up with the notch on the slot. Gently push the RAM into the slot until it clicks into place. Repeat for the other RAM sticks.

6. Install the storage. The storage devices (SSD, HDD, etc.) can be installed in the drive bays on the case. Some cases have tool-less drive bays, while others require screws. Make sure the power and data cables are connected to the storage devices.

7. Install the power supply. The power supply should be installed in the case with the fan facing down. Make sure the power supply is securely fastened to the case with the screws provided. Connect the power cables to the motherboard and other components.

8. Install the motherboard. The motherboard should be installed in the case with the I/O shield facing out. Make sure the motherboard is securely fastened to the case with the screws provided. Connect the power and data cables to the motherboard.

9. Install the CPU fan. The CPU fan should be installed on the motherboard with the fan facing down. Make sure the fan is securely fastened to the motherboard with the screws provided. Connect the power and data cables to the fan.

10. Install the GPU. The GPU should be installed in the case with the fan facing down. Make sure the GPU is securely fastened to the case with the screws provided. Connect the power and data cables to the GPU.

11. Install the other components. Other components such as the case fans, the optical drive, the USB ports, the audio jacks, the power button, and the reset button should be installed according to the instructions from the manufacturer.

12. Connect the cables. Connect the power cable to the power supply, and the other end to the outlet. Connect the data cables to the motherboard and other components. Connect the monitor, mouse, and keyboard to the PC.

13. Install the operating system. Insert the installation media for the operating system into the PC, and boot the PC. Follow the prompts to install the operating system.

14. Test the PC. Once the operating system is installed, test the PC to
assistant
Here are the steps you can follow to build a PC:
1. Choose the hardware. This requires your need, budget, and other limits. For example, a PC for gaming usually requires a high single-core performance CPU and a decent GPU, one as a server usually needs more CPU cores, and one for office work can focus on low power consumption and noise. Other limits include the maximum load of your outlets, the available space for the PC, the need to move the PC around frequently, noise tolerance, etc. Games usually provide their minimum and recommended CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage. You can then find out the requirements for cooling and power supply according to the reviews of these components. There are also many users sharing their hardware and needs, which you can refer to.

2. Prepare the tools. Building a PC usually needs a Philips head screwdriver (a full set of screwdrivers is better), a clean work surface, thermal paste, tapes, zip ties, and the installation media for your operating system such as a USB flash drive. Prepare a monitor, mouse, and keyboard to test the PC. It is also recommended to use an anti-static wrist wrap to avoid damaging the hardware.

3. Install the CPU. Release the tension lever for the CPU on the motherboard. For the most recent AMD (AM5) and Intel platforms that have pins in the socket, also lift up the metal retaining bracket. Older AMD AM4 platforms (for Ryzen 5000 or older CPU) have pins on the bottom of the CPU instead, so be careful not to bend them. There will be an arrow/triangle on one corner of the top of the CPU, which needs to line up with the triangle on the socket or socket cover. After aligning the CPU with the socket, gently place the CPU in place, and it should settle down with its own gravity. If not, try again, and never force it into the socket. Then, drop the retaining bracket down and press the tension lever back down. 

4. Install the cooler. Some coolers already have the thermal paste applied. For others, apply some thermal paste onto the top of the CPU, and a pattern of "X" is often used. Don't forget to peel the protective film off the cold plate/paste area. The installation of the cooler itself can vary a lot between brands, and it is recommended to follow the provided manuals. Some large air coolers can hang over the RAM slots, and you can first follow the next step to install the RAM. Then, install the fans if not provided, and plug the CPU fan connector into its header on the motherboard which is usually labeled something like "CPU_FAN". Liquid AIO coolers need to be connected to "CPU_PUMP" or similar headers.

5. Install the RAM. Check the manual of the motherboard to find out which slots to use for different numbers of RAM sticks. RAM slots have latches on one or both sides. Push them open and make sure that the small notch on the bottom of the RAM stick is aligned with the matching bump of the slot, then insert the stick into the slot and push down until it snaps into place, causing the latches to close.

6. Install the M2 SSDs. The manual of the motherboard should also show the supported types of drives and of slots and which slots to use for different numbers. Some motherboards have heatsinks over the slots which should be removed first. Also, remove the screw located across from the M.2 slot if there is any, and slide the SSD with its notch aligned with the bump in the slot. Slowly push the SSD flat and screw the mounting screw back into the hole aligned with a semicircular notch at the end of the SSD. Some motherboards use small plastic tabs instead of screws, which can be simply pushed to the side when installing the SSD and back after. 

7. Install the whole motherboard. Remove the side panels on the chassis. Fit the I/O shield into the chassis if the motherboard doesn't have one pre-attached, and clear the metal bits on it blocking the ports. Make sure the motherboard standoffs in the board mounting area match the holes on the motherboard. Finally, place the motherboard in, and put the screws through the holes on the motherboard and into standoffs to fix it.

8. Install the power supply (PSU). The chassis usually has a dedicated place for the PSU, but might have a bracket that needs to be re-installed to place the PSU in. If you are using a modular power supply, or one without pre-connected cables, check the manual to choose and plug in the cables before screwing the PSU in. Then, route the 24-pin power connector and supplemental/CPU power connector through your case and plug them into the corresponding header on the motherboard. 
 
9. Install the SATA drives. The chassis can have brackets to mount SATA drives, or you will need some tapes or zip ties to hold them. Connect them to the SATA the motherboard SATA ports, and the SATA power connector of the PSU for 3.5-inch HDDs.

10. Install the graphics card/GPU. Check the motherboard manual to find the proper PCIe slot for your GPU, match the notch on the GPU to the bump in it, and push the GPU in, which is similar to installing RAM. Connect the PCIe power connectors from the power supply to those on the card if there are any. Large GPUs such as RTX 4090 can be installed after other cables are connected as they can block access to most of the motherboard, and they may also need support brackets.

11. Connect other cables. This includes RGB controller cables, chassis fan cables, cables for the front-panel ports such as USB and audio, etc. Check the motherboard manual for the corresponding ports on the motherboard.

12. Test the PC. Plug the PC in. Connect the monitor, keyboard, and mouse. The monitor should be connected to the port on the graphics card instead of the motherboard if one is installed. Turn on the monitor, and the power supply switch which is on the back of the PSU, and then press your PC's power button. The PC should turn on and run its POST if everything works. You can then plug in the USB install drive or other media. If the system can't access the installation drive, you may need to navigate to the BIOS to make sure it can be identified and is at the first of the boot order.

13. Cable management. This is not necessary, but looks better and can be helpful for future upgrades. Loose cables may also get into the airflow or hit the fans.


This is only an overall description of building a PC, and some steps can get more complicated. Feel free to ask me for more details later!
user
Here are the steps you can follow to build a PC:
1. Choose the hardware. This requires your need, budget, and other limits. For example, a PC for gaming usually requires a high single-core performance CPU and a decent GPU, one as a server usually needs more CPU cores, and one for office work can focus on low power consumption and noise. Other limits include the maximum load of your outlets, the available space for the PC, the need to move the PC around frequently, noise tolerance, etc. Games usually provide their minimum and recommended CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage. You can then find out the requirements for cooling and power supply according to the reviews of these components. There are also many users sharing their hardware and needs, which you can refer to.

2. Prepare the tools. Building a PC usually needs a Philips head screwdriver (a full set of screwdrivers is better), a clean work surface, thermal paste, tapes, zip ties, and the installation media for your operating system such as a USB flash drive. Prepare a monitor, mouse, and keyboard to test the PC. It is also recommended to use an anti-static wrist wrap to avoid damaging the hardware.

3. Install the CPU. Release the tension lever for the CPU on the motherboard. For the most recent AMD (AM5) and Intel platforms that have pins in the socket, also lift up the metal retaining bracket. Older AMD AM4 platforms (for Ryzen 5000 or older CPU) have pins on the bottom of the CPU instead, so be careful not to bend them. There will be an arrow/triangle on one corner of the top of the CPU, which needs to line up with the triangle on the socket or socket cover. After aligning the CPU with the socket, gently place the CPU in place, and it should settle down with its own gravity. If not, try again, and never force it into the socket. Then, drop the retaining bracket down and press the tension lever back down. 

4. Install the cooler. Some coolers already have the thermal paste applied. For others, apply some thermal paste onto the top of the CPU, and a pattern of "X" is often used. Don't forget to peel the protective film off the cold plate/paste area. The installation of the cooler itself can vary a lot between brands, so follow the instructions from the manufacturer.

5. Install the RAM. The RAM slots are usually color-coded, and the slots closest to the CPU are usually the first two. The RAM modules should be inserted into the slots with the notch on the module aligned with the notch on the slot. The RAM modules should be inserted until they click into place.

6. Install the motherboard. The motherboard should be installed into the case with the I/O panel facing outwards. The motherboard should be installed with the standoffs in place. The standoffs are usually pre-installed on the case, but some cases require you to install them yourself. The motherboard should be installed with the screws provided with the case.

7. Install the power supply. The power supply should be installed with the fan facing downwards. The power supply should be installed with the screws provided with the case.

8. Install the storage. The storage should be installed into the case with the screws provided with the case.

9. Install the graphics card. The graphics card should be installed into the case with the screws provided with the case.

10. Install the CPU power cable. The CPU power cable should be connected to the motherboard and the power supply.

11. Install the storage power cable. The storage power cable should be connected to the storage and the power supply.

12. Install the graphics card power cable. The graphics card power cable should be connected to the graphics card and the power supply.

13. Install the front panel cables. The front panel cables should be connected to the motherboard and the case.

14. Install the power switch cable. The power switch cable should be connected to the motherboard and the power switch.

15. Install the reset switch cable. The reset switch cable should be connected to the motherboard and the reset switch.

16. Install the speaker cable. The speaker cable should be connected to the motherboard and the speaker.

17. Install the USB cable. The USB cable should be connected to the motherboard and the USB port.

18. Install the HDMI cable. The HDMI cable should be connected to the graphics card and the monitor.

19. Install the Ethernet cable. The Ethernet cable should be connected to the motherboard and the router.

assistant
Here are the steps you can follow to build a PC:
1. Choose the hardware. This requires your need, budget, and other limits. For example, a PC for gaming usually requires a high single-core performance CPU and a decent GPU, one as a server usually needs more CPU cores, and one for office work can focus on low power consumption and noise. Other limits include the maximum load of your outlets, the available space for the PC, the need to move the PC around frequently, noise tolerance, etc. Games usually provide their minimum and recommended CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage. You can then find out the requirements for cooling and power supply according to the reviews of these components. There are also many users sharing their hardware and needs, which you can refer to.

2. Prepare the tools. Building a PC usually needs a Philips head screwdriver (a full set of screwdrivers is better), a clean work surface, thermal paste, tapes, zip ties, and the installation media for your operating system such as a USB flash drive. Prepare a monitor, mouse, and keyboard to test the PC. It is also recommended to use an anti-static wrist wrap to avoid damaging the hardware.

3. Install the CPU. Release the tension lever for the CPU on the motherboard. For the most recent AMD (AM5) and Intel platforms that have pins in the socket, also lift up the metal retaining bracket. Older AMD AM4 platforms (for Ryzen 5000 or older CPU) have pins on the bottom of the CPU instead, so be careful not to bend them. There will be an arrow/triangle on one corner of the top of the CPU, which needs to line up with the triangle on the socket or socket cover. After aligning the CPU with the socket, gently place the CPU in place, and it should settle down with its own gravity. If not, try again, and never force it into the socket. Then, drop the retaining bracket down and press the tension lever back down. 

4. Install the cooler. Some coolers already have the thermal paste applied. For others, apply some thermal paste onto the top of the CPU, and a pattern of "X" is often used. Don't forget to peel the protective film off the cold plate/paste area. The installation of the cooler itself can vary a lot between brands, and it is recommended to follow the provided manuals. Some large air coolers can hang over the RAM slots, and you can first follow the next step to install the RAM. Then, install the fans if not provided, and plug the CPU fan connector into its header on the motherboard which is usually labeled something like "CPU_FAN". Liquid AIO coolers need to be connected to "CPU_PUMP" or similar headers.

5. Install the RAM. Check the manual of the motherboard to find out which slots to use for different numbers of RAM sticks. RAM slots have latches on one or both sides. Push them open and make sure that the small notch on the bottom of the RAM stick is aligned with the matching bump of the slot, then insert the stick into the slot and push down until it snaps into place, causing the latches to close.

6. Install the M2 SSDs. The manual of the motherboard should also show the supported types of drives and of slots and which slots to use for different numbers. Some motherboards have heatsinks over the slots which should be removed first. Also, remove the screw located across from the M.2 slot if there is any, and slide the SSD with its notch aligned with the bump in the slot. Slowly push the SSD flat and screw the mounting screw back into the hole aligned with a semicircular notch at the end of the SSD. Some motherboards use small plastic tabs instead of screws, which can be simply pushed to the side when installing the SSD and back after. 

7. Install the whole motherboard. Remove the side panels on the chassis. Fit the I/O shield into the chassis if the motherboard doesn't have one pre-attached, and clear the metal bits on it blocking the ports. Make sure the motherboard standoffs in the board mounting area match the holes on the motherboard. Finally, place the motherboard in, and put the screws through the holes on the motherboard and into standoffs to fix it.

8. Install the power supply (PSU). The chassis usually has a dedicated place for the PSU, but might have a bracket that needs to be re-installed to place the PSU in. If you are using a modular power supply, or one without pre-connected cables, check the manual to choose and plug in the cables before screwing the PSU in. Then, route the 24-pin power connector and supplemental/CPU power connector through your case and plug them into the corresponding header on the motherboard. 
 
9. Install the SATA drives. The chassis can have brackets to mount SATA drives, or you will need some tapes or zip ties to hold them. Connect them to the SATA the motherboard SATA ports, and the SATA power connector of the PSU for 3.5-inch HDDs.

10. Install the graphics card/GPU. Check the motherboard manual to find the proper PCIe slot for your GPU, match the notch on the GPU to the bump in it, and push the GPU in, which is similar to installing RAM. Connect the PCIe power connectors from the power supply to those on the card if there are any. Large GPUs such as RTX 4090 can be installed after other cables are connected as they can block access to most of the motherboard, and they may also need support brackets.

11. Connect other cables. This includes RGB controller cables, chassis fan cables, cables for the front-panel ports such as USB and audio, etc. Check the motherboard manual for the corresponding ports on the motherboard.

12. Test the PC. Plug the PC in. Connect the monitor, keyboard, and mouse. The monitor should be connected to the port on the graphics card instead of the motherboard if one is installed. Turn on the monitor, and the power supply switch which is on the back of the PSU, and then press your PC's power button. The PC should turn on and run its POST if everything works. You can then plug in the USB install drive or other media. If the system can't access the installation drive, you may need to navigate to the BIOS to make sure it can be identified and is at the first of the boot order.

13. Cable management. This is not necessary, but looks better and can be helpful for future upgrades. Loose cables may also get into the airflow or hit the fans.


This is only an overall description of building a PC, and some steps can get more complicated. Feel free to ask me for more details later!
user
Here are the steps you can follow to build a PC:
1. Choose the hardware. This requires your need, budget, and other limits. For example, a PC for gaming usually requires a high single-core performance CPU and a decent GPU, one as a server usually needs more CPU cores, and one for office work can focus on low power consumption and noise. Other limits include the maximum load of your outlets, the available space for the PC, the need to move the PC around frequently, noise tolerance, etc. Games usually provide their minimum and recommended CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage. You can then find out the requirements for cooling and power supply according to the reviews of these components. There are also many users sharing their hardware and needs, which you can refer to.

2. Prepare the tools. Building a PC usually needs a Philips head screwdriver (a full set of screwdrivers is better), a clean work surface, thermal paste, tapes, zip ties, and the installation media for your operating system such as a USB flash drive. Prepare a monitor, mouse, and keyboard to test the PC. It is also recommended to use an anti-static wrist wrap to avoid damaging the hardware.

3. Install the CPU. Release the tension lever for the CPU on the motherboard. For the most recent AMD (AM5) and Intel platforms that have pins in the socket, also lift up the metal retaining bracket. Older AMD AM4 platforms (for Ryzen 5000 or older CPU) have pins on the bottom of the CPU instead, so be careful not to bend them. There will be an arrow/triangle on one corner of the top of the CPU, which needs to line up with the triangle on the socket or socket cover. After aligning the CPU with the socket, gently place the CPU in place, and it should settle down with its own gravity. If not, try again, and never force it into the socket. Then, drop the retaining bracket down and press the tension lever back down. 

4. Install the cooler. Some coolers already have the thermal paste applied. For others, apply some thermal paste onto the top of the CPU, and a pattern of "X" is often used. Don't forget to peel the protective film off the cold plate/paste area. The installation of the cooler itself can vary a lot between brands, so follow the instructions from the manufacturer.

5. Install the RAM. The RAM slots are usually labeled on the motherboard, and the notch on the RAM should line up with the notch on the slot. Gently push the RAM into the slot until it clicks into place. Repeat for the other RAM sticks.

6. Install the storage. The storage devices (SSD, HDD, etc.) can be installed in the drive bays on the case. Some cases have tool-less drive bays, while others require screws. Make sure the power and data cables are connected to the storage devices.

7. Install the power supply. The power supply should be installed in the case with the fan facing down. Make sure the power supply is securely fastened to the case with the screws provided. Connect the power cables to the motherboard and other components.

8. Install the motherboard. The motherboard should be installed in the case with the I/O shield facing out. Make sure the motherboard is securely fastened to the case with the screws provided. Connect the power and data cables to the motherboard.

9. Install the CPU fan. The CPU fan should be installed on the motherboard with the fan facing down. Make sure the fan is securely fastened to the motherboard with the screws provided. Connect the power and data cables to the fan.

10. Install the GPU. The GPU should be installed in the case with the fan facing down. Make sure the GPU is securely fastened to the case with the screws provided. Connect the power and data cables to the GPU.

11. Install the other components. Other components such as the case fans, the optical drive, the USB ports, the audio jacks, the power button, and the reset button should be installed according to the instructions from the manufacturer.

12. Connect the cables. Connect the power cable to the power supply, and the other end to the outlet. Connect the data cables to the motherboard and other components. Connect the monitor, mouse, and keyboard to the PC.

13. Install the operating system. Insert the installation media for the operating system into the PC, and boot the PC. Follow the prompts to install the operating system.

14. Test the PC. Once the operating system is installed, test the PC to
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