Build Your Own PC Do-It-Yourself For Dummies
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The basic, no-frills model PC will cost you the least to build. This type of computer is great for word processing, Internet e-mail, keeping track of finances, and simple applications that don’t need lots of memory or a fast computer. Here’s a list of equipment you need to build an entry level PC:

Computer Component What to Look For
Case Standard “pizza-box,” ATX minitower, or desk-top model; single fan
CPU/motherboard Intel Celeron or AMD Sempron; PCI slots
System RAM 512MB
Hard drive One EIDE drive, 120GB minimum
Optical drive 16x internal DVD drive
Video card Standard 128MB PCI/AGP adapter
Sound card PCI audio card
Monitor 17-inch LCD
Ports At least four USB 2.0 ports
Input Standard keyboard; mouse

About This Article

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About the book author:

Mark L. Chambers has been building, customizing, and repairing PCs for over 20 years for himself and clients. As a consultant, he helps everyday folks update, maintain, and troubleshoot PCs.

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