Choose CPU, motherboard, RAM, GPU, storage, PSU, case, and cooling (air or AIO)
Confirm CPU socket compatibility with the motherboard
Select RAM type/speed supported by the motherboard and CPU
Choose GPU length/height that fits the case
Pick storage type(s) (NVMe SSD recommended) and capacity
Select a PSU with sufficient wattage and correct connectors for GPU/CPU
Ensure case supports the selected radiator size/fan configuration (if using AIO)
Gather tools: Phillips screwdriver, anti-static precautions, cable ties (optional)
Prepare a clean workspace and use an anti-static method (anti-static wrist strap or frequent contact with grounded metal)
Install CPU on the motherboard:
Open CPU socket lever
Align CPU with the socket markings
Close the lever to secure CPU
Install CPU cooler:
Apply thermal paste (if cooler doesn’t include pre-applied paste)
Install cooler mounting hardware per cooler instructions
Connect CPU_FAN (and pump header for AIO if applicable)
Install RAM:
Open motherboard RAM latches
Insert RAM sticks into the correct slots for target dual/quad-channel configuration
Press until latches click
Install motherboard into the case:
Fit standoffs to match motherboard form factor (ATX/mATX/ITX)
Place motherboard I/O shield (if not preinstalled)
Lower motherboard into the case and secure with screws
Install storage:
Install NVMe M.2 SSD(s) into the M.2 slot(s)
Secure with the retaining screw
Install 2.5″ SATA SSD/HDD into drive bays if used
Install GPU:
Remove the appropriate PCIe slot covers
Insert GPU into the primary PCIe x16 slot
Secure GPU with screws
Connect required PCIe power cables from the PSU
Connect front panel and internal headers:
Front panel power switch, reset switch, power LED, HDD LED, USB headers
Connect case fans to fan headers (or hub) and set fan headers in BIOS later
Connect SATA power/data if using SATA drives
Connect motherboard power:
Connect 24-pin ATX power to the motherboard
Connect 8-pin (or 4+4) EPS CPU power to the motherboard
Cable management:
Route cables behind the motherboard tray where possible
Secure with ties or Velcro to keep airflow clear
Install remaining fans/radiator (if applicable):
Mount radiator in correct orientation per case support
Connect fan/pump headers to motherboard (pump to AIO header)
Double-check connections:
CPU_FAN/pump, power cables, GPU power, front panel, RAM seated, SSD/M.2 seated
Initial power-on test outside the case (optional but recommended):
If not testing, proceed to final assembly steps
Boot into BIOS:
Confirm system recognizes CPU, RAM, storage, and fan headers
Set boot order to the OS drive/installer media
Enable XMP/EXPO for RAM if desired
Set fan curves as preferred
Install operating system:
Create bootable USB installer
Boot from USB and follow OS installation steps
Install drivers and updates:
GPU drivers
Chipset drivers
Storage/NVMe drivers if provided (usually not required)
Final checks:
Verify temperatures in BIOS/monitoring software
Run a basic stability test (optional) and confirm no abnormal errors
Clean up:
Secure side panels
Ensure all screws are installed and no loose parts remain