Building a computer involves several matters that need to be considered before it is constructed. However before all that I had to research how a computer functions, what type of equipment I had to purchase, and how to assemble it. The first avenue of knowledge I decided to take was a workshop on how to build a personal computer at Solano Community College early last year. The workshop was only designed to last for one day. I could not possibly absorb that much of information in one day; however, I felt it would provide me with a jump-start. The visual explanation by the professor allowed me to understand the concept of computing more clearly when I combined it with the textbook reading. It allowed me to fill in the gaps of information I had not understood during the workshop. After gaining some more knowledge beginning to feel more comfortable with the components and how they fit together. I began to explore my own older computer. I would for example use the textbook and learn to identify each component by sight and their operations and duties. After I felt I confident with computers, I began to formulate a list of parts and plan on how I was going to assemble them.
             First, the speed, type, and brand of CPU processor must be determined. Then, depending on the CPU, a motherboard must be chosen. The motherboard is the "focal point" of the computer. It sets the foundation on which other components will be installed. It establishes what type of RAM, hard drive, computer case, and power supply will be used. However, the amount and size of both the RAM and hard drive must also be determined. Next, a video card and sound card must be chosen. The type of video card depends on the quality of picture desired and whether or not high-end graphics will be used on the computer. The sound card also depends on the quality of sound desired by the user. The next thing to consider is the speed of the CD ROM and the rpm ...