CS250 Lab 2: Designing a computer
Note about this one: I almost skipped this lab since it sounds like a lot of you already built a computer. But, if you know what you're doing, it'll just make this a really fast lab.
For this lab, you will design (not build) a desktop computer using off-the-shelf hardware. The design should include:
- A description of how the computer will be used. For example, the computer might be used for E-mail, web surfing, and encoding DVD movies. Or gaming and general college work.
- A list of parts which the computer will be built from. All of these must be compatible! This list should include the part, the price, and an explanation of why the part is appropriate to the task (and is not a waste of money). Software is not considered a computer part for this assignment.
The components must be available online somewhere which you can give a link to. The easiest way is probably to set it up on pcpartpicker or somewhere like that, and export or screenshot the parts list when it's done. Newegg.com is an excellent place to look for parts, and my default source, but there are plenty of places that sell computer parts.
A complete desktop computer should include:
- A CPU. Make sure it uses the same socket as the motherboard you pick.
- A Motherboard
- A heatsink for the CPU (often included with the CPU, but not always, and maybe you want a better one.)
- RAM. Make sure you choose a combination that's supported given your motherboard and CPU
- A hard drive, of whatever type you think is appropriate.
- A video card, unless you elect to use on-board video.
- A case
- A power supply
- In general, you need at least one case fan. This is often included with the case.
- A CD-ROM drive, if it seems important for the computer you design.
- Cabling as appropriate. This is usually included with other parts.
You do not need to worry about periphrials outside the case such as keyboard, mouse, monitor, etc.