Building The Machine: The Essentials

   I have never built a computer before. Come to think of it, neither have I owned a desktop computer before. Coming from having used only laptops, I've recently decided that I want something more performance oriented, and better yet, I want to build it myself. As much as I appreciate the portability of laptops, a tower computer will undoubtedly be easier to build, customize, and update as the times change.

   From what I've gathered, here are the basic parts (blue words are links):
   Hopefully this can serve as a guide to others who are also learning about computers.

- Computer Case (holds everything in and looks pretty)

- Power Supply (I've been told that this is arguably the most important part, as the life of all other hardware depends on having a steady and sufficient supply of power)

- Motherboard (what most things plug into, so make sure it is compatible with the processor, memory, and video card you wish to use)

- Processor (the brain of the motherboard, sold separately)

- Memory (short term memory)

- Harddrive (main storage for long term memory, such as operating system)

- Graphics Card (although some motherboards come with an integrated graphics processor (IGP), for my needs I will use a separate dedicated video card)

- Other things include an optional sound card, network card or usb wifi adaptor. All the cables, bolts, ect, to hook everything up should come with the products. 

Well, time to start shopping.