Computer assembly can be done to manufacturer or buyer specifications, with preconfigured parts or customized hardware. It’s easier now with color-coded motherboards and built-in features, but requires research. Building your own can save money, but off-the-shelf systems with customizable options are also available.
Computer assembly refers to the construction of a computer system, either to the specifications of a manufacturer or buyer. In the first case, computers are assembled with preconfigured parts and sold en masse to a general market. In the latter case a customer can choose which hardware will be included, either by building the computer system from the motherboard up, or by simply choosing certain options.
Computer assembly is much easier today than it used to be. Many features now built into motherboards were once separate components that required not only assembly into the system, but also manual configuration of memory address and IRQ assignment. Failure to do this correctly will cause hardware and software conflicts that could crash the system or disable components.
Another feature that makes computer assembly easier today are color-coded motherboards and ports. This makes it quite easy to purchase compatible components and assemble your own computer system with basic knowledge. That said, the hardware market is highly competitive and the time saved on assembly will likely be spent researching the best products to buy for your system.
For the uninitiated there are a dizzying array of options available when considering assembling your own custom computer system. Your computer’s processing unit (CPU) will determine which motherboards will be compatible. Among potential motherboards will be other considerations, such as the type and amount of random access memory (RAM) supported by the board, bus speed, BIOS chip type, graphics interfaces, hard drive interfaces, and etc. Choosing each component of the system will involve a unique set of decisions.
For those who have the time and interest, building your own computer can save you a lot of money by providing an excellent computer system with top-notch parts. However, many are unable to invest that much time and may prefer to simply customize a reliable, off-the-shelf system and have someone else do the assembly.
Companies like Gateway and Dell provide consumers with a basic system from which the buyer can opt for hardware and software upgrades from a menu of choices. In this way each system is tailored to the customer who is not forced to buy more or less than he needs or wants. The customer is also spared assembly and potential headaches, as the system comes ready to start with tested hardware and pre-installed software.
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