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CPU: This is what determines the speed of your computer. Try not to be greedy here. The ZIFF sockets on the motherboard is where the CPU goes, before you build, make sure that the CPU uses the same socket featured on the motherboard. There are two brands of processors for the PC. Intel: Uses 32 bit processing. Features frequencies up to 3.4ghz, with hyper-threading tech.(Creates a virtual CPU, therefore adds the ability to muti-task without lagging) AMD: Uses 64 bit processing, up to 2.2ghz, with hyper-transport tech.(Faster Bus) Note: Most people think that the Intel is better due to the higher frequency, however, AMD has a performance rating.(Ex:3400+ model AMD can perform same as 3.4ghz Intel though 3400+ has a frequency of 2.2ghz. Cases: This is where the motherboard and drives fit. Buy one that you like and is compatable with your motherboard type. Power Supply: This is where power is supplied. Get one that is compatable with your motherboard and CPU. Most video card out today require at least 300w. 
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Motherboard: This is where everthing goes. Some motherboard feature built-in video chip, sound chip, etx. There are many different things that should be known. ZIFF: This is where the CPU goes. AGP: This slot is used for the video card. It is always the first slot on a motherboard. Different types are AGP 1x,2x,4x,8x. Make sure that the video card uses same type of AGP as motherboard. PCI: This slot is used for expansions.(Sound card, modem, low level video cards, etx. As long as the device is a PCI device, it should be compatable. Jumpers: Set the jumpers based on hardware, if not set correctly, bad things will happen. Visit links for more information. ATA&SATA: Connects to drives. Visit links to learn more. DIMM: Where memory goes. Make sure the memory is compatable and runs at same front-side bus as the CPU BIOS: Required for computer to boot, has many features, update frequently. Chipset: The chip needed for the CPU to work. Other Slots: There are tons of other slots; MIDI, USB, Firewire. Visit links to learn more. |
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