Prefabricated computer. Correct selection of PC components. Case and power supply

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Computer prices

Today, consumers are increasingly less likely to buy a ready-made personal computer (system unit), to which they must subsequently connect a monitor, keyboard and mouse. Increasingly, the choice is being made in favor of laptops and monoblocks (all-in-one systems). If the user wants to get something special, then most likely he will prefer to assemble the computer from individual components himself. However, this does not mean that traditional systems are completely dying out; there are still quite a lot of them on sale and, if you wish, you can choose a very good system for yourself at an affordable cost, without wasting time on assembly.

The choice of a personal computer depends on what exactly you need it for. This will directly affect the cost - an inexpensive system for solving everyday problems will cost much less than a high-performance monster that can easily run the latest games. Therefore, choosing a personal computer should begin with determining what exactly it will be used for.

By the way, recently the so-called. nettops are systems characterized by very compact size and low performance. Their undoubted advantage is their small size; such a computer can even be hung from the back by the monitor, freeing up a lot of space on the desktop. In most cases, having purchased a nettop, the user only needs to connect a monitor, keyboard, and mouse to it and start working.

The disadvantages of nettops are no less obvious - there is practically no possibility of an upgrade; at best, the user can only increase the storage capacity and RAM (by the way, this problem is also typical for all-in-one PCs). However, systems with low performance become obsolete more slowly, and given the low cost, in a few years it will be possible to simply replace an outdated computer with a new one.

As for all-in-one PCs, these systems will allow you to reduce the number of wires on your desk to a minimum, especially if you use a wireless keyboard and mouse. When choosing here, special attention should be paid to the diagonal of the monitor and its resolution. After all, if you make a mistake in these criteria, you can correct it later only by buying another computer; it is impossible to simply change the monitor.

Most people know that the minimum composition of a completely ordinary system unit includes a processor, motherboard, video card, RAM, hard drive, case with power supply and other less significant components. And most likely, no one needs to explain how important the correct selection of components for a PC is.

When and why you need to build a new computer

All these components interact with each other and work stably until something fails. As can be seen from practice, most computer hardware (hardware - computer components) is designed to last for a long time. As a result, the need to build a new PC arises not because of any breakdown, but because the internal components of the system unit inevitably become outdated and can no longer cope with modern tasks.

If you take a working system unit from 10 years ago, it will still perform its functions today, but you will immediately feel a huge difference between the old one and the fresh replacement. It’s not a matter of physical aging of components, it’s all to do with technical progress, because almost every year more productive components appear.

There is no point in constantly updating the computer system, due to the rather large monetary costs. In this regard, as a rule, an assembly intended for games is carried out with a view to several years in advance, and if the purpose of assembling a computer is to perform office tasks, then its service life should increase to an even longer service life, but there is no way to do without choosing the right components for your computer. Information on how to choose a computer will also be very useful, and in some ways even similar.

Current selection of PC components for today

Choosing a processor for a future computer

The processor is the initial link, what you should start from when assembling a new computer in the first place, regardless of the further purpose of the computer. Only after a specific processor has been selected can you continue to solve the issue with components: the motherboard and RAM, etc.

Taking a look at the processor range, two competitors, Intel and AMD, will immediately catch your eye. If we take a quick look at the tests and reviews of the choice between these brands, we can come to a small conclusion: Intel processors are good in terms of performance, and AMD is better in the price segment.

Selecting an AMD processor

If we take two processors from different manufacturers that are identical in frequency and number of cores, then Intel is more likely to emerge victorious. After all, they have a well-implemented CPU structure that took years to develop. AMD is less productive as it may seem at first glance, but if we compare them a little differently, namely in terms of price and performance, then AMD in the mid-price segment is usually more productive.

Of course, choosing between one manufacturer or another is more of a philosophical question, since fans always support one of these competitors. First, you need to familiarize yourself with the leading solutions from AMD.

These central processors today are made for socket AM3+, having three series of FX models with 4, 6 and 8 cores and the costs of these technical solutions are accordingly different. These processors will be an excellent budget solution for modern games. At the same time, the number of cores will influence better multitasking, which is not unimportant now. But here the factor is in favor of Intel - most of the current computer games are adapted for quad-core processors.

As a current cheap addition to upgrading your computer today there will be 4-core AMD Athlon processors with socket FM2 and with socket AM3 AMD Athlon X4. But these processors do not have an integrated graphics core, which is quite significant, because for an office computer, buying a video card would be an unnecessary waste, so it is better not to use these models for assembling a promising gaming computer. If you want integrated video, which is considered optimal for a consumer or office computer, then you should take a closer look at processors with socket FM2/FM2+.

The most inexpensive and modern solution from AMD will be the FX 4100 - 4350 series processors. FX4XXX is positioned more as a good platform for a home computer, while FX6XXX (FX6100 - 6350) will perform well as a budget gaming computer with overclocking potential. Of course, for higher performance, you can choose FX 8xxx and 9xxx series processors, whose performance is considered the best by the manufacturer.

Selecting an Intel Processor

Intel processors have a slightly simpler selection system. The processors of the latter will be the optimal solution for assembling a modern computer; they have socket 1150 and regardless of the price, all these processors are equipped with an integrated graphics core, and the final series of the model range, like processors with socket 1155, is completed here by the Intel Core i7. It has 4 cores and hyper threading technology (8 threads). The younger Intel Core i3 model (2 cores, 4 threads) has everything necessary for stable operation in fairly resource-intensive tasks.

The older model is designed for absolutely all occasions, from highly demanding games to video encoding and processing. As for the Intel Core i3, this is the entry-level gaming option, or the minimum option for a budget gaming computer. The golden mean of a productive computer would be the Intel Core i5, nothing extra here, just 4 cores. For office computers, there are two more series of dual-core models - Pentium and Celeron. The Pentium processor is more suitable for the home, since it is a little more productive, and therefore more expensive, and the Celeron, although it is suitable for not very resource-intensive tasks such as watching movies and listening to music, web surfing and social networks, its performance will clearly be at least and not everywhere, but not enough.

Motherboard

After a long decision about the choice of such a component for a PC as a processor, the time has come to think about the motherboard. First look at the socket of the pre-selected processor, then start selecting the motherboard based on these parameters. The motherboard and CPU connectors must match. When selecting this type of component, you should pay attention to the chipset (it affects many things, for example, the maximum supported RAM frequency, the presence of SATA 3 and USB 3.0), the number of connectors (USB, SATA, PCI, DDR, DVI/VGA for integrated video) , form factor (board dimensions) and manufacturer.

The recommended manufacturers here are Gigabyte, Asus and MSI; some models of motherboards from other manufacturers can actually be even more productive and no less reliable, for example, like ASRock. These same manufacturing companies have proven themselves well in the production of video cards. But it is not at all necessary to buy the same brand of manufacturers and components for the same motherboard and video card. There are many motherboards on sale, but which one you prefer is a personal touch.

Video card

A computer needs a video card not only to display images on a monitor. She is also responsible for processing those same graphics, especially for three-dimensional entertainment. Today, in order to play comfortably at minimum settings, you need to choose a video card that is certainly no less powerful than the Nvidia GeForce 730 or AMD Radeon R7 240. The average optimal option is GeForce 760/770. If you want to enjoy high or ultra settings for a long time, get ready to fork out for a GeForce 790 or AMD Radeon R9 270 290X, and maybe even a GeForce GTX 980. Don’t lose your head here, you won’t always have the best computer and what it costs today $1999 will cost $299 tomorrow, although the difference between the performance and functionality of the models may not even be noticeable.

As for integrated video, everything is much simpler here. The graphics processor is already built into the CPU by the manufacturer. It will work instead of the video card, and will use the RAM memory to perform the functions of the video card. In the BIOS settings you can independently allocate available memory for integrated video. The maximum permissible allocated volume depends on the capabilities of the motherboard (you can check it in the instructions or on the manufacturer’s official website).

RAM

For comfortable work today, the minimum amount is 4 GB of RAM. This applies to office computers and assemblies for simple tasks. It is advisable for a gaming PC to have 8 GB, or, if you really want, 16 GB, which may not be used, it’s up to you to decide. Here it is important to pay attention to the choice of RAM sticks with the required frequency. There is no need to buy RAM with the maximum frequency; you need one that is simultaneously supported by the motherboard and processor. Such companies as Corsair, Goodram, Kingston, Silicon Power, Transcend specialize well in this matter.

Another important fact is the dual-channel operating mode inherent in most, if not all modern motherboards. It increases productivity by more than 15%. How to achieve this? Very simple. Buy two identical RAM modules. For example, 2 sticks of 2 GB each (4 GB of RAM) or 4 GB (8 GB of RAM); usually, stores already sell sets equipped with memory sticks of the same batch.

HDD and SSD

Here we come close to user memory. Everyone knows the purpose of a hard drive; it is where all the information is stored. But this does not mean that the operating system can be installed only on it. Today, HDD drives remain good information storage devices, but in order to get more out of a computer for an OS partition, quite a few people are already purchasing SSDs separately, with a capacity of 120 GB or more. SSD technology has shown itself on the positive side in terms of performance. If you install all the system software on a solid-state drive, you will feel a significant difference between the most ordinary HDD and SSD. The computer will boot in a matter of seconds, all applications will open instantly, and you will forever forget about temporary freezes.

As for the hard drive, it still remains relevant in terms of data storage. It is profitable to buy a HDD with a capacity of 1 TB or more, since the cost of 1 GB of memory is cheaper. As for mechanics, the spindle speed is standard for all, 7200 rpm. It’s just not worth choosing less, unless of course the laptop is being updated, and even in them the SSD is no longer considered a novelty.

It is advisable to have a hard drive buffer size of at least 32 MB. The manufacturer is also considered an important point. Today they are almost all the same. When choosing the right PC component, such as an HDD, you should take a closer look at the manufacturers Western Digital and Seagate, which have been on the market for a long time; it is recommended to focus on them, although this is not a mandatory rule that should be followed; even among these manufacturers, defects occur, although with less probability.

Case and power supply

If you take a closer look at the range of cases, you can pay attention to the presence of a power supply supplied in the kit. Such a power supply can be used only if components with low power consumption are used and then no less than 400W. This power supply is certainly suitable for assembling an office computer with an integrated video adapter, or for some computer assemblies for the home.

Do you have a gaming build with a video card? Then go to the manufacturer’s website, look at the recommended power supply for your preferred video card, add 100-150W in reserve and buy a high-quality power supply. Under no circumstances connect the power supply that was included, there is a risk of burning the unit itself and other components. The fact is that such power supplies do not correspond to the declared power, while their quality generally leaves much to be desired. Focus on high-quality power supply from Cooler Master or Chieftec, or at least FSP and analogues. They are not only reliable, but also optimal in terms of connectors. They have an increased number of ports for powering SATA and other devices, and the cables themselves are longer. For a more correct understanding of what we are talking about, read the article: how to choose a computer case.

These advantages are especially needed for gaming computer builds; otherwise, you can purchase cheaper models. As for the case, you can choose any one, focusing on the form factor and your taste, do not forget about good ventilation, because usually very powerful computers, especially after overclocking, heat up very well.

Other components

The last step is the other components of the personal computer. This includes a DVD drive, other adapters, tuners, etc. Everyone has their own preferences here. However, an optical drive is still relevant, since Blu Ray has been gaining popularity recently, although it is not in great demand. And some people specifically buy a drive just for the sake of installing the OS and drivers, probably not knowing about the capabilities of a bootable flash drive. If you decide to buy a drive, then the best quality is likely to be Asus and Nec, the probability of failure is quite low, although in reality it depends on your luck.

The brief information provided will be useful when selecting components for your future computer. However, after compiling a list of the desired hardware, if you do not have sufficient experience, it is better to consult a specialist to avoid an additional trip to the store to exchange the wrong components. Such a specialist may also be located in the store. Professionals will point out the mistakes that a beginner can make. They might even recommend something more worthy.

After you are 100% convinced of the correct selection of components and their compatibility, buy them and start assembling. There are many video reviews on the Internet showing how this is done. They will help you a lot in solving this problem. An extreme case is to give the hardware to a specialist, and he will assemble everything to the heap; usually the assembly is included in the free bonus after purchase.

The computer configurator with compatibility check allows you to quickly assemble a system unit with the technical characteristics required by the user. Using our online designer, you can easily assemble a reliable office machine, a home multimedia system unit, or a powerful gaming setup.

Computer assembly online

Nowadays, like many years before, assembling a computer from independently selected components is popular. This is a good opportunity to choose what you want. Nothing limits you; there are hundreds of options available for assembly, among which there is sure to be one you like.

Our online store offers the opportunity to assemble a computer online through the configurator. In it, this process is presented in the form of categories of components, from the processor to the power supply. Each category contains an expanded range of models with descriptions of characteristics for ease of selection.

To simplify the selection of components, the configurator has a compatibility filter for the main components of the assembly. For example, by selecting a specific processor, the following components are automatically filtered by compatibility. Also, you will be presented with a choice to install the operating system. After completing the assembly process, you receive the final result based on three parameters: price, technical data, rendered image. After placing an order and confirming it by phone, our specialists assemble this kit and check its functionality.

The advantage of this method of purchasing a system unit is that you not only choose the components you want, but also have the opportunity to choose the brand or manufacturer of the part.

Having assembled a certain configuration and completed by pressing the assemble/buy buttons, the assembly is assigned a specific serial number, by typing it in the product search bar, you can find this PC and send a link to it to friends or acquaintances for consultation or recommending them for purchase.

An important feature of our configurator is the “get an expert’s opinion” function. By sending your request through this form, you will receive a detailed response with a recommendation to the email you specified.

Try it and see for yourself - assembling a computer online is easy and simple! In case of difficulties, you can always get advice from our specialists on all issues that interest you.

Important! Computer assembly is free

The PC Configurator is an easy way to assemble a computer online while checking the physical compatibility of components.

Let's start assembling. We add the first element - the central processing unit (CPU). When selecting components, the appearance of the installed units is visualized. The price is calculated automatically online, consistently forming the cost of the finished PC. In a couple of clicks, the designer program helps you assemble and buy a system unit from scratch, assigns an assembly identification number, and saves a link. If necessary, prints the saved configuration. There is an option to find out the expert’s opinion using the feedback form.

Assembling a computer is a fascinating process. Available - top-end GEFORCE RTX video cards, latest generation Intel processors, RAM with passive radiator cooling and RGB backlighting, high-speed SSD drives, plus capacious HDD drives. Choose Asus Msi Gigabyte motherboards, spacious cases on aluminum chassis, Corsair, Thermaltake, Seasonic power supplies. Our designer knows how to solve difficult problems. Allows you to collect gaming computer, a productive graphics station, a machine for professional audio and video digitization.

When you have configured your PC, click the “place an order” button. Fill out the standard form, then you will receive an email with confirmation and contents of the order. Edelweiss store managers will contact you, answer your questions and agree on the time and conditions of delivery or pickup. The sales department will configure the selected PC, deploy licensed software (if you select an OS), and install the necessary drivers and utilities. The procedure for updating the BIOS to the latest available version is mandatory. PCs are tested with specialized software at full load for 4 hours.

Additional bonuses for clients

• using the code, discuss the benefits of assembly with an engineer
• the ability to quickly select a computer at a price online
• product customization
• information support, characteristics and descriptions of the units used
• free delivery in Moscow, fast delivery throughout Russia

Advanced online PC building service

Our experts suggest starting assembling a system unit by selecting a CPU (Processor). The configurator has an integrated module for checking the compatibility of components online. Therefore, having decided on a processor, you will be offered only components compatible with it. This will greatly simplify and speed up the assembly process.

The existing system unit may not always suit the buyer. That's why we offer the function of assembling a PC online using the configurator. This mechanism will not limit you in anything, offering dozens of possible configurations for a stationary machine.

The process is a selection of different components, which are conveniently sorted into groups of devices from the processor and video card to the power supply and hard drive. Here, everyone determines for themselves what kind of hardware they need, depending on the tasks that the computer must perform. Someone is building a gaming machine, which must have a powerful video card. Others require a processor and high performance to run graphics programs. All these checks are possible using our virtual PC designer on the website.

The functionality includes a component compatibility check. When you select one component, those with which it will not work are immediately cut off, which will simplify the assembly task. After completing the assembly process, the configuration will be available for purchase in the shopping cart, demonstrating the total cost of the assembled system unit. Our specialists will assemble the computer that was ordered via the Internet and test the system’s performance.

You can pick up your system unit from our store in Moscow or arrange delivery to the desired region using a transport company. We work quickly, professionally and set fair prices for computers and components.