First thing is first, make sure that you have everything you need to get started. What good is it to get started only to find you don't have everything necessary? This can take quite a bit of time, but is well worth the effort. Once you have inventoried everything it is time to get started! In addition to all of your parts, you will need plenty of working space and two to three hours to focus on the task at hand. Be sure to remember that carpet, and/or static is your worst enemy. The static electricity can fry your components and sometimes void any warranties you may have (be sure to check those warranties as well...sometimes you just get bad components). A good accessory to have with you is an antistatic wrist strap - they are very inexpensive and can often be found at your local computer parts store for six dollar or less. A floor free of carpet is your best place to build. Get your screw drivers, anti-static strap (strap it on) and download the latest component drivers from the vendors' websites and burn them to CD - often times the drivers that come with your product will be several versions out of date - this can help by reducing stress later on.

2. Installing the Mobo (motherboard)

Now we can begin with the good stuff: installing your mobo. Take the motherboard out of the anti-static packaging and place it on top of the same bag. Be careful to avoid creating any potentially "fatal" static electricity. Now, install the CPU, heat sink and memory modules. Do this before you screw in the motherboard. Since each motherboard is different, be sure to check your user manual as it will help guide you during the installation process. First, lift the lever on the processor socket so you can install the CPU. Carefully line up the pins and place the chip in its socket; do not force it, it will not fit unless it is orientated properly. An arrow or a missing pin on one corner of the chip will show you how to line things up. Lower the lever and lock the CPU into place.

Next, follow the manufacturer's directions to install the heat sink and the fan that will cool the processor. If you bought an OEM CPU and a separate heat sink, you may need to spread a thin layer of the thermal compound that came with the heat sink over the chip to ensure proper transfer of heat (some come with thermal compound already applied). Attaching the clip that holds the heat sink in place may require a fair amount of force. Plug the fan's power connector into the proper connector on the motherboard.

TIP: Choose the processor first: With the release of Intel's new Conroe processors Intel has surpassed AMD as the leader in graphics processing. Not only that, they have also managed to be more energy efficient at it. Check the latest reviews...you will find this is not hype. Make sure you take extra time to choose the right processor - it is definitely the most important decision you will make.

TIP: Choose the motherboard after selecting the processor: Make sure, when selecting your CPU, that your processor is compatible with your motherboard. This is indicated by the "socket" of your process - check the detailed specs and you will find what processors your motherboard supports. Some only support AMD; while others only support Intel and certain types within each so be CERTAIN.

Often times you can get both your process and your motherboard bundled - which means that your retailer has taken the time to ensure that both the mobo and processor are compatible - it is also a way to save a few bucks - not to mention saving time on the install. Socket A, Socket 939, and Socket 940 are designed to work with Athlon processors, while Socket 478 and the new LGA socket 775 are for Intel CPUs. The system chip set (the chips that pass data between the peripherals and the CPU) is the other component that differs among motherboards; it determines which integrated components (graphics, sound, Ethernet, etc.) will be included. I wouldn't count on using your integrated chipset to run your games, but they are okay with the small things.