If you've just finished building your PC or are looking to build one, there are some common issues to look out for. Here is a quick guide on some common mistakes beginners make and how to resolve them.
The Right Parts
One of the biggest mistakes a new PC builder can make is buying the wrong parts!
The CPU may not be compatible with the motherboard, or the motherboard doesn't support the RAM or storage types.
PCPartPicker is a great resource for this. It can automatically filter lists based on the CPU or motherboard you choose and alert you if certain parts have compatibility issues.
There is another consideration when it comes to matching PC hardware: bottlenecking.
Bottlenecking limits processing power or graphical performance, typically due to differences in the maximum capabilities of two components.
Bad Installation
Sometimes, the parts are installed improperly.
Push the RAM all the way down when you install it so that the clips on either side come down, or you aren’t mounting it properly.
Fans that come with your case will push air in the right direction, but if you’re adding your own fans make sure that they’re pushing air in the right direction.
All fans should be pushing air toward the back of your case or the top of it to ensure proper airflow.
Installing your CPU can damage or even break its pins, depending on how much force you use while installing it.
All processors will have markings on the CPU's corners to let you know which part goes where on the motherboard.
Once you find the marking, line it up with the marking on your motherboard's CPU socket and carefully install the processor.
Be sure that when you’re installing your thermal paste on the CPU you only do so in small amounts- about the size of a pea, if not slightly smaller.
Documentation
Your PC will have a lot of components, including paperwork!
Keep up with all manuals, safety information, and warranty documentation.
Since you have all the manuals, read them! The most important ones would definitely be your motherboard manual, your case manual, your PSU manual, and your CPU manual.
Make sure that you aren’t missing any crucial information when building your PC.
Mistakes in the building process can result in having to disassemble and start over, or, in the worst of cases, outright hardware damage.
Wrapping Up
Make sure the parts are compatible with your machine; consult PCPartPicker for a quick guide.
Poor installation can lead to serious issues. Double-check that RAM is seeded properly and the CPU is installed in the right direction.
Thermal paste should be applied carefully and conservatively. Fans should be spinning in the right direction for proper airflow.
And keep track of all forms of documentation for future use.
