cross-posted from: https://infosec.pub/post/32005086
When the postie comes, I’ll be building a PC for the first time in years. What are the do’s, don’ts and tips nowadays?
Obviously classics like RTFM, plan ahead and retrieve any dropped screws are evergreen.
Things I believe are true: tighten your CPU cooler screws evenly (like putting on a car tyre), all screws should be no more than finger tight, build in a dust-free environment.
What about grounding yourself? I remember reading that the danger of this was way overstated and e.g. anti-static wrist straps were a waste of money. Is building in a case that’s plugged in (but powered off) enough?
I’ve seen recommendations to build outside of the case first to test components - is this good advice?
Anything else?
Breadboarding outside the case is still widely recommended, especially if you aren’t bringing any components forward from an old machine.
Pay close attention to the first-time startup processes for your system. Some have different startup procedures (e.g., AM5 memory training).
Make sure you have adequate containers for all small components (screws of course, but also power harnesses, mounting plates, etc…). Anything you take out of the packaging or case will “walk away” if you just put it down “wherever”.
Have a flashlight. Maybe obvious, but even in a larger case it can be hard to see if something is properly seating, a cable is making a turn properly, and so on…
Lastly, manage your cables. Tension on connections is bad, and it can help with airflow in a case as well.
Preferably a headlamp, if available. Keeping your hands free is really helpful.