The Anatomy of Custom Computers: The Components You Need to Know The amazing thing about custom computers is that they allow you to build the computer of your dreams. You can choose every component and create a computer that works exactly as you want. Computer repair is also easier when you know the components. So, it’s recommended that your computer be built by a professional. But that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t know about the components. On the contrary, this is how you will be able to clearly communicate what you want. Remember that each piece of this puzzle is g oing to influence how everything works. The Core of the System We will start with the components that make up the core of the whole system, the CPU and the motherboard. The CPU refers to the Central Processing Unit, while the motherboard is the backbone that connects all the components. They have different roles in your computer, but what ties them together is the fact that they are essential. The CPU is the processor , and it dictates how efficiently your computer will work. While the motherboard dictates compatibility and upgrade options. There are many details that you need about custom computers to be able to choose the correct core components. An Intel CPU might require a specific socket type. And, because of that, a motherboard that can support that needs to be chosen. As for the computer repair side, the CPU rarely fails. The motherboard is usually the component that is more prone to needing repair. It can break because of faulty connections or power surges. But don’t worry, the process of replacing it is not a hard task, especially in custom computers. So, if this happened to you, don’t panic. A professional will be able to quickly fix this pr oblem for you. You Need Storage and Memory The speed with which a computer can load applications, and how much data it can hold, depend on the RAM and the storage devices. RAM stands for Random Access Memory, and it’s the short - term memory of your computer. It’s a high - speed memory that holds information so that the CPU can quickly access it. This temporary data storage technique allows for efficient multitasking and faster loadin g When power is lost, the RAM’s memory is deleted. That’s why you need another component that holds data for a longer ti me. That’s when the storage devices come in. Let’s see what the most common options are: • SSD – Solid state drives • HDD – Hard disk drives • USB – Universal S erial B us flash drives • NAS – Network - attached storage • Memory cards The components related to storage are on the list of one of the most common reasons why computer repair shops always have work to do! Take a look at this list put together by the Erie Institute of Technology , and you will find HDD and RAM on the list. These are important components and you need to take care of them the best you can. The professionals building custom computers know how to choose components that work well together. This is important, because this detail will extend the life of your computer. Custom Computers and Performance Many gamers, engineers and designers prefer custom computers, as they can ensure that they will have a computer that can handle their activity. Video games are known for how much power and strength they need from the computer, if you want them to look and play nicely. As for engineers and designers, they use programs that need a lot of power too. That’s why, for these people, the GPU is the most important component in the whole computer. GPU stands for Graphics Processing Unit. It handles tasks like video e diting, rendering and 3D modeling. So, depending on what activities you need your computer for, a professional will choose the right GPU for the task. And, based on the GPU choice, you need a reliable PSU, which stands for Power Supply Unit. A good pairing ensures consistent good performance and it prevents damage. The ones building computers are basically magicians and scientists at the same time. What seems like a fun and simple task, is actually something that requires lots of knowledge and practice; if you want good results, of course. Your Computer Needs to Cool You will be surprised to find out how many people try to DIY building a computer, and totally forget about the cooling system. There are so many things to consider, and to ensure that everything goes well together, that you can forget about the more basic and important things. Problems with cooling lead to overheating, which is another common issue in the computer repair world There are a few types of cooling systems that you can choose from: air cooling, liquid cooling, or a hybrid system. Different computers need different kinds and amounts of cooling. So, y ou need to know how many fans you need, and what kinds of fans would be best for the system that you created. And, of course, an expert in computers could help with that. Dust build - up and failing fans can lead to performance issues. That’s why you want to keep your computer clean, or take it to regular check - ups with an expert. Most people never take their computers to be professionally cleaned. So, even if you do it just once in a while , it’s still more than most. Conclusion Computer repair is easier and cheaper when your computer has been built correctly. And, no matter how much experience and knowledge you think you have with computers, a professional will still do it better. We are talking about so many components that need to help and support each other. And, after all, we are talking about a device that needs constant electricity. One tiny mistake could create major problems. But, how do you feel now that you know some of the most important components that need to go in yo ur computer? It’s more complicated than you thought, right? If so, don’t be ashamed, as that’s the responsible assessment to make!