For people who are setting out to build a computer for the first time, there's a lot of information on this site about how to choose an appropriate set of components. But after searching for a while, I couldn't find that much about actually assembling the components once you've got them.
Having gone through the process myself once, I know that it's not that complicated, but still: someone who's new to building a computer is confronted with the task of piecing together a half-dozen instruction manuals into one coherent procedure, and carrying that out while handling (seemingly) delicate electronics without even knowing how easy or hard it is to break something in the process. Basically, it can be a little intimidating. So with that in mind:
What does someone need to know before setting out to assemble a computer from already-purchased parts?
As I mentioned, I couldn't find any comprehensive guide on the site, but there are a few questions that touch on various aspects of it, which I've listed below as examples of the sort of information I might be looking for. I'm basically trying to have one reference - whether an answer here, or an external site, or both - where I can point new computer builders to get all the important tips and "gotchas" to watch out for, in one place.
Tools & Accessories
- Cables for building a computer
- Role of Anti-static wrist wrap, Applying thermal solution , cleaning if spilled , and other necessary precautions, protecting your motherboard (for the anti-static wrist strap)
Procedures
- Grounding Yourself Before/While You Are Building A Computer
- Steps when installing a new processor
- Role of Anti-static wrist wrap, Applying thermal solution , cleaning if spilled , and other necessary precautions, protecting your motherboard (for thermal paste)
Testing & Troubleshooting
- Building My First Computer And Suprise It Isn't Working
- Automatically testing all parts of a new computer
Software (well, maybe not)
A couple of these come close to being duplicates, but I don't think any of them is the all-inclusive reference I'm looking for.