Lesson 1RAM: capacity, speed, latency, dual-channel vs single, recommended kits and XMP/EXPOThis section covers selecting RAM capacity, speed, and latency for gaming and productivity, comparing single versus dual channel, and enabling XMP or EXPO profiles while verifying motherboard QVL lists for stable, compatible memory kits that perform well.
Recommended RAM sizes by workloadDDR generations and naming schemesFrequency, timings, and real latencySingle vs dual channel performanceXMP and EXPO profile configurationChecking motherboard QVL for kitsLesson 2CPU selection criteria: cores, threads, single-thread performance; shortlist processLearn how to shortlist CPUs by cores, threads, and clock speeds, compare single-thread and multi-thread performance, and consider platform longevity, power use, and cooler needs to select the best value chip for your specific workload requirements.
Defining gaming vs creator prioritiesReading core, thread, and boost specsInterpreting benchmark score chartsPlatform upgrade path and socketsPower limits, heat, and cooler needsPrice-to-performance comparisonsLesson 3Case fans and cooling plan: fan count, static pressure vs airflow, fan placement for positive pressureDesign a full case airflow plan by choosing appropriate case fans, balancing static pressure and airflow types, and positioning intake and exhaust fans to create slightly positive pressure that enhances cooling and minimises dust accumulation inside.
120 mm vs 140 mm fan characteristicsAirflow vs static pressure fan bladesFront, top, rear, and bottom placementCreating positive or neutral pressurePWM vs DC control and fan curvesNoise reduction and vibration controlLesson 4CPU cooler choice: stock vs aftermarket, TDP ratings, airflow vs AIO considerationsLearn to choose between stock and aftermarket CPU coolers by understanding TDP ratings, socket compatibility, noise levels, and airflow versus liquid AIO options, ensuring your processor remains cool, quiet, and operates safely without issues.
Reading CPU TDP and cooler ratingsStock coolers: pros, cons, safe use casesAir tower coolers: size, noise, clearanceAIO liquid coolers: risks and benefitsThermal paste types and applicationCase airflow impact on CPU coolingLesson 5Case: airflow vs aesthetics, tempered glass and RGB considerations, form factor, dust filtersLearn to evaluate PC cases for airflow, build quality, and ease of assembly while balancing tempered glass, RGB lighting, and aesthetics. You will also check dust filters, radiator support, and space for large GPUs and coolers to ensure compatibility.
Mesh vs solid front panel airflowTempered glass safety and tintingRGB fans, strips, and control hubsGPU, PSU, and cooler clearanceDust filter locations and cleaningCable management space and grommetsLesson 6Motherboard selection: chipset features, VRM quality, form factor, expansion slotsExplore selecting a motherboard by chipset, VRM quality, and form factor. You will match CPU support, RAM standards, expansion slots, rear I/O, and BIOS features to your performance goals and future upgrade plans for a solid foundation.
Matching socket and chipset to CPUVRM phases, cooling, and stabilityATX, mATX, ITX form factor trade-offsPCIe slots for GPU and add-in cardsM.2 and SATA storage connectivityRear I/O ports and internal headersLesson 7GPU: performance targets at 1080p/1440p, power draw, VRAM requirements, recommended modelsUnderstand selecting a GPU based on target resolution, refresh rate, and game settings. You will compare VRAM needs, power draw, cooler designs, and vendor models while avoiding bottlenecks with your CPU and power supply for smooth performance.
1080p, 1440p, and 4K performance goalsVRAM capacity for modern game assetsReference vs custom cooler designsPower connectors and PSU demandsAvoiding CPU bottlenecks in gamesUsed vs new GPU buying considerationsLesson 8Storage: NVMe vs SATA, capacity sizing for OS/games/video projects, endurance (TBW)Learn to choose between NVMe and SATA drives, size storage for OS, games, and projects, and interpret endurance ratings like TBW. You will plan a tiered storage setup for speed, reliability, and easy future expansion without complications.
NVMe vs SATA performance and use casesSystem drive vs bulk storage strategyCapacity planning for games and mediaTBW, DWPD, and warranty coverageQLC vs TLC NAND characteristicsPartitioning and backup strategiesLesson 9Gathering current price ranges: how to do quick market checks and record reliable approximate pricesThis section teaches practical ways to gather current component prices using major retailers, local shops, and price trackers. You will record realistic ranges, identify outliers, and maintain a simple sheet updated for future builds to stay on budget.
Choosing reliable pricing websitesUsing filters and sorting effectivelyRecording low, typical, and high pricesTracking sales, rebates, and bundlesRegional price and tax differencesMaintaining a reusable price sheetLesson 10Power supply: wattage sizing method, efficiency (80 PLUS), modularity, recommended wattage and modelsThis section explains sizing PSU wattage for your build, interpreting 80 PLUS efficiency ratings, and choosing between non-modular, semi-modular, and fully modular units, with specific wattage targets for common CPU and GPU combinations.
Estimating system peak power drawHeadroom for transient GPU spikesUnderstanding 80 PLUS certificationsSingle vs multi 12V rail designsModular vs non-modular cablingBrand reliability and warranty lengthLesson 11Operating system licence: Windows versions, OEM vs retail, approximate costsHere you will compare Windows editions for gaming and work, understand OEM versus retail licences, and learn typical price ranges, activation methods, and how to avoid cheap or fake licence sources to ensure genuine software.
Windows Home vs Pro feature needsOEM vs retail licence differencesTypical price ranges and discountsWhere to buy legitimate licencesActivation, accounts, and transfersBudgeting OS cost into full build