SiliconMage

After all the connections have been completed, power on the computer.
Press del while the computer is booting to enter the BIOS and check all the basic BIOS entries to ensure that all the settings are correct.
Depending on your system configuration, you may want to enable or disable various settings - the motherboard manual may have reccommendations for this.

If there is no problem at the BIOS level, the CPU will search for an Operating System installed on your HDD. For a brand new HDD, if you are installing Windows XP
Insert the Windows XP installation CD in the CD ROM drive and reboot.
Press del again to enter the computer BIOS settings to set CD Rom drive as the first boot-up device.
Reboot your computer to start the Operating System install.
Once Windows XP is completely installed, the other additional hardware like modems, network card, sound card can also be installed.

Some computer manufacturers allow buyers to order custom built computers where they can specify the amount of RAM / hard disk space,  but there is a limited amount of  flexibility. The best custom made computers are those which are assembled by the end user or by a  reliable computer assembler who knows the applications which will be run on the computer and selects the hardware accordingly.

Requirements for assembling a custom built computer :

1. Intermediate to advanced knowledge of  computer hardware and assembly. You should not only be able to read and understand component specifications and assembly instructions, but also be able to fit components together and ensure that there are no loose connections.  If you are not proficient, it is advisable to hire the services of  a computer technician for a few hours.

2. Tools :   Magnifying glass,  small flashlight , a set of  Philips screwdrivers for assembly and needle nose pliers. An anti static wrist strap is also recommended to prevent damage to components.

Though mass produced branded computers are cheap and easily available in most countries, custom built computers can be better for certain applications / uses.

Some of  the advantages of  buying / building custom built computers are :

1. You pay only for the components and hardware you need and use. Every computer user uses the computer for different applications. Most mass produced computers have some hardware features which are not used by many users. This hardware can be eliminated, reducing the overall cost of  the computer.

2. More user friendly : For a custom built computer, there is a lot of  flexibility in selecting  the cabinet , so that USB / parallel ports can be easily accessed  and peripherals like printers connected or disconnected from the computer. Though major manufacturers like HP hire some of  the “best” designers,  USB ports for many PC models cannot be accessed from the front of  the PC.

3. In case of  component failure, you are not dependent on the manufacturer and you can use a similar component  of  any other make , if the specifications match .

About custom built computers and assembly of computers