The first step is to take both sides off the case and insert the power supply unit (PSU), which usually fits in a landscape position at the top of the case. Some cases come with a power supply already in place, in which case you can simply move on, but always double-check that the switch on the rear of the PSU is set to correct voltage. Four long screws, provided with the PSU, should be used to secure it in place. The case may come with a bag of screws too, some of which can be used now if the PSU didn't include its own. Computer cases come with a default metal backplate with holes for the various connectors.

This must be popped out and replaced with the one provided with the motherboard. Applying firm pressure to all four corners of the default and motherboard backplates should be enough to remove and insert them. Now remove the motherboard from its anti-static bag and place it inside the case. The motherboard needs to be placed with all the rear ports lined up snugly with the backplate. The motherboard has a series of screw holes that should now line up with fittings on the case. The motherboard should be raised a few millimetres away from the case tray so that it doesn't short-circuit anywhere, with the exception of the screw holes which should be touching.

Some cases have their screw fittings raised for this purpose. If the screw fittings aren't raised, the case should provide some hexagonal gold spacers that should be fitted between the motherboard and case before using screws to cement the two together. With the motherboard in place, it's time to fit the processor and memory. You should take special care when fitting the processor, paying close attention to the supplied instructions.

Fitting memory is straightforward. An off-centre notch near the centre of the memory module governs which way round it should be fitted into the corresponding slot on the motherboard. Most motherboards have four slots, so, if using two identical modules, consult the manual for which slots to use for 'dual-channel' mode -this increases performance. To install a module, push it down until its connector pins sit tightly in the slot. The retaining clips at either end of the memory slot should now be rotated up towards the memory module, making an audible click in the process.