To build a desktop

1. Motherboard - The motherboard is the backbone of the system. It determines the type of components that can be used with the system and the number of internal peripherals the system can support. It will directly impact the processor used and total amount of memory that can be supported.

2. Hard Drive - The primary method of storage in all desktop computer system is a hard drive. Typically it will be a 3.5" hard drive with either a Serial ATA interface. Some performance users may consider using solid state drive.

3. DVD or Blu-ray Drive - Optical drives are the component used to install most of the software on a computer system. Without one, it will be hard to even get an operating system installed. Most drives these days are DVD burners that can also playback and record CDs as well. Blu-ray is an option for those wanting to watch HD movies.

4. Sound Card (Optional) - Most motherboards now feature some form of built-in sound controller on them. As a result, sound cards are not required unless you want higher fidelity computer audio or less reliance upon the CPU to assist with the computer audio. Network Card (Optional) - Ethernet has become so common a media for networking computers that this should be a standard feature on all motherboards. Some motherboards even feature wireless network adapters built in. A network card will only really be required if you want to networking wirelessly and it isn't built onto the motherboard. NOTE** MOST MOTHERBOARDS INCLUDE WIRELESS BY USB ADAPTER AND ETHERNET OPTIONS BUILT IN

5. Monitor - What screen do you want to use for your computer? What is its cable to connect to the computer? HDMI? DVI? Factor in which display ports your video card has when deciding on a monitor.

6. Keyboard - What kind of feel are you going for? Gaming? Ergonomics? Will a regular keyboard be fine, or do you want a mechanical keyboard (better response)? There are MANY keyboards out there designed specifically for gaming, and even for specific games themselves. Mouse - What will you be doing with the computer? Gaming? What kind of gaming? There are mouses all over with basic needs all the way up to 12 macro keys on their sides which you can use. Which one do you want?

7. Case - This is the basis of a desktop computer system. All the other parts of the computer will reside within it. The choice of a case size may impact what other components will be able to fit inside of it. This is also the visible portion of the system, so selection should be based on functionality and aesthetics.

8. Power Supply - Some computer cases will come with a power supply pre-installed inside them but most do not. As a result, it is necessary to get a power supply that works with your components and has sufficient power. Newer features such as modular cabling and efficiency ratings are also something to consider.

9. Processor - The brain of the computer system. This will be the primary factor in how fast the system is. Choices were fairly simple before but with the advent of multiple cores there is a bit more to consider then before.

10. Heatsink - If the processor was purchased via the retail packaging, it will include the manufacturer heatsink. But for those who purchased an OEM processor, it will also be necessary to have a CPU cooler. Without it, your CPU will quickly burn itself out. Make sure that any heatsink you use is properly rated for your processor as well.

11. Memory - Without memory, the computer will not be able to function. The CPU needs it to store the code to tell it how to properly process data. You will need to know the type that your motherboard uses and also determine how much you need as it directly impacts performance.

12. Video Card - Unless the motherboard comes with a video connector, it will be necessary to install a video card into the computer system. Graphics cards are typically only needed these days to deal with PC gaming, high definition video and multiple displays.