So you have decided to build or assemble your own pc.

The first question you should ask yourself is: What parts do I buy to build my own pc and where do I buy them ? Which are best and what tools do I need to build a pc?

There are many places to buy components to build and upgrade your own PC, these can be bought from the highstreet, the internet or through mail order. You can go to a large computer retail store in your area or a small independent shops. The large retail stores have their merits such as having a wide range of stock, warranties etc but the flip side may be that you will pay a little (or perhaps a lot) more than you would in other places. Consider as well the "personal touch". Are you likely to get this or will you simply be a "number"if anything goes wrong?

Consider the smaller stores/shops to purchase your pc parts. You will almost certainly have one near you (you may have to search a local directory or down some back streets/industrial units). Regardless of location, such stores/shops are often cheaper (because the location is cheaper) and importantly can provide individual attention. The hardware they sell is often retail packaged from the manufacturer with full documentation, which can vary from good to surprisingly appalling. In addition they may also sell something called OEM hardware, which usually comes wrapped in nothing but a static bag and is accompanied with very little documentation. These have been manufactured by the original manufacturer but are sold in a basic format.Now, this type of hardware has its benefits (it is far cheaper for a start) but due to the lack of documentation it is perhaps not the choice for a total novice. You will need to be the judge on this.
Consider now what you need in the next section.
Hardware selection