Build Your Own Computer - STEP 3

Computer Motherboards

There are many types of PC motherboards available in the market. It depends upon your requirement. But all motherboards have almost the same type of parts built into it. So below I will help you to decide if a particular motherboard is just the right one for you.

The most important thing to consider when buying a motherboard is its flexibility. Look for supported CPU, supported RAM and graphics slots and whether the motherboard has an onboard sound and ofcourse which brand.

Most motherboard available today have built-in display, built-in sound, and Network Adaptor. The onboard display available is the most basic graphics display. So, if you want to have a high speed computer for designing or gaming purposes, you have to look for Add-on graphics slot on the motherboard so that you can add a 3rd party graphics accelerator card. Ask for your vendors help to select a perfect motherboard which is just the right one for you.

But remember, no matter whichever motherboard you buy, you can easily assemble any motherboard which fits into the case perfectly. Today most motherboards are ATX types of motherboards, which will fit in ATX case. If you buy a MicroATX board or MiniATX boards just ask the vendor if that particular motherboard will fit in your case. Most often it will install just fine.

Also one thing I forgot to mention is the compatibility of your motherboard with different storage devices. Storages devices or hard disks come in various capacity. Your motherboard will support any hard disk capacity you need. The two main type of storage devices are IDE and SATA types of hard disks.

These information will be helpful when you look for the right type of motherboard. So, enjoy your shopping and have fun!

In my next step, I will show exactly how to install the motherboard in your computer case. So, Let's keep reading.

For step 4 of how to build your own computer, click here