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8. Incorrect memory installation When installing RAM, make sure each stick is seated firmly and in the correct slots, as indicated in your motherboard manual. For dual-channel setups, this usually means spacing the modules apart. Listen for a “click” when each one locks in. If possible, always buy memory in kits of 2 or 4 where possible to guarantee the best compatibility and stability.
9. Plugging cables into the wrong ports Misplaced cables can cause your PC not to power on—or worse, damage components. Before powering up, cross-check every connector with your motherboard manual. Make sure your CPU power cable, GPU cable, and front-panel connectors are all in their correct ports.
10. Skipping the manuals Te manual is one of your most important tools. Every case, motherboard, and component comes with one for a reason—they explain correct installation, port locations, and setup procedures. Reading them carefully saves time, money, and frustration. Even experienced builders sometimes make mistakes, but by
keeping these points in mind, you’ll greatly reduce your chances of running into problems.
After the Build: Setting Up Your New PC You’ve built your dream PC—but you’re not quite done yet. Before you start gaming, there are a few essential steps to make sure your system runs at its best. Let’s go through what to do next. Te first thing to do aſter assembling your PC is to configure the
BIOS (Basic Input/Output System). Te BIOS is built into your motherboard and controls fundamental functions, including how your computer identifies hardware and boots the operating system. To access it, press the key indicated by your motherboard
manufacturer—usually Delete, F2, or F12—as the computer powers on. Inside the BIOS, you’ll want to: • Set the boot order so your system knows which drive to start from (for example, a USB if you’re installing Windows).
• Enable XMP (Extreme Memory Profile) or EXPO (Extended Profiles for Overclocking) if your RAM supports it—this ensures it runs at its advertised speed.
• Double-check that all components, including your CPU and storage devices, are being detected correctly.
Once configured, save your changes and reboot the PC. You can’t use your new PC until it has an operating system.
The most popular options are Windows 10 and Windows 11, which are both easy to install from a USB drive. Use Microsoft’s official tool to create a bootable USB, plug it in, and follow the installation steps. If you’re setting up Linux, most distributions have similar
installers that guide you through formatting drives and setting up user accounts. Drivers are small programs that tell your hardware how to
communicate with the operating system. Modern systems install many of them automatically, but it’s still worth visiting your motherboard, graphics card, and peripheral manufacturers’ websites to download the latest versions.
www.pcr-online.biz November/December 2025 | 23 Keeping drivers updated helps prevent bugs, improves
performance, and ensures your system runs smoothly. You should also run Windows Update (or your OS equivalent) to install the newest security patches. Before connecting to the internet, make sure your system is
protected. Install antivirus and anti-spyware soſtware, enable the built-in firewall, and schedule regular system scans. Tese tools will protect your data and keep your PC healthy over time. Now for the fun part—installing your favourite soſtware and
games. You can install them using physical discs, direct downloads, or platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, or GOG. To optimise performance and protect your data, install games and
large applications on a separate drive from your operating system. Tis makes future OS reinstalls easier and helps keep your files safe. Don’t risk losing your work, games, or important files. Set up a
backup system using an external SSD for example. Regular backups are the simplest way to safeguard your data in case of a system failure or malware attack. Building a PC is as much about creativity as it is about
performance. Once everything’s running, personalise your system to match your style—change wallpapers, tweak taskbar settings, and customise your RGB lighting using soſtware such as Kingston FURY CTRL. Aſter all the planning, building, and configuring, your new PC
is ready to use. Whether you’re gaming, editing, or working, take a moment to appreciate what you’ve accomplished. You designed it, built it, and optimised it—and now it’s time to enjoy the results.
Conclusion Building your own PC is one of the most rewarding tech projects you can take on. Yes, mistakes can happen—but by preparing carefully, following manuals, double-checking compatibility, and fine-tuning your setup aſterward, you’ll end up with a system that’s powerful, reliable, and uniquely yours. From selecting quality components to configuring BIOS settings
and securing your system, every step plays a role in ensuring long- term performance. Once your PC is built, customised, and ready, the satisfaction of powering it on for the first time is unmatched.
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