For PC learners, installing hardware parts into their machines can look like a worrying experience. Many would pay a professional hundreds of dollars to install upgrades like RAM or hard drive, rather than risk corruption their valuable PC. Actually, process is quite efficient. By taking time and being cautious, you can save money installing PC parts manually.

Instructions

1. Step 1

Shut down PC.

2. Step 2

Detach PC from its power source. Ensure machine's power cable is not only disconnected from any wall hole, but that it is also detached from PC also.

3. Step 3

Take out side panels from PC case. The size of screwdriver based on make and model of PC. Put these screws to the side where you won't lose them and lift of side panel.

4. Step 4

Find the motherboard. This will be a big, flat circuit board placed in middle of PC case. Parts like RAM, video cards and sound cards will connect straight into white inputs on motherboard. They can only connect in one way and are secured securely in place by white plastic clips on either side of input.

5. Step 5

Search for unutilized cables coming off motherboard. These cables will be utilized to install things like hard drives, DVD burners and CD burners. The end of cable that is not soldered straight onto motherboard will just plug straight into back of device.

6. Step 6

Connect cables that came with new hardware into motherboard. Hardware like hard drives and media writers generally come with flat, ribbon type cables or compact SATA cables. These must want to be connected straight into proper vacant sockets on motherboard.

7. Step 7

Search for unutilized cables coming off power supply. These cables connect into backs of those DVD burners and CD burners to supply power.

8. Step 8

Close PC back up, connect it back in and turn it on.

9. Step 9

Install any drivers that came with parts. These frequently come enclosed on CDs or DVDs with parts themselves. A driver is a small PC program intended to ensure OS and new hardware can coexist. Based on when upgrade part was enclosed, you may find new drivers and/or firmware on maker's website.