When it comes to assembling and connecting components in your computer, the wrong connections can result in a system that doesn’t work correctly. Fortunately, there are several ways to ensure that all of your wires are connected properly.
First, identify which cables you’ll need to connect to your motherboard and power supply. You should have a diagram for these in your motherboard manual. Once you know where the wires go, hook them up in order and make sure to follow the instructions on your manual.
Ensure that all the wiring is clean and free from debris, dust, and liquids before you begin your work. This will make your job a lot easier, and it will also help prevent problems down the road when you need to reconnect the components again.
Connect the Power Wires
To get your computer to turn on when you push the power button, connect the power switch to the motherboard. This will have a two-pin connector, and it’s usually marked “PWR SW.” Check the case’s manual if you’re not sure.
Plug in all the other wires from your case and system fans to their designated spots on the motherboard. This will include HDD wires, system fans, and miscellaneous motherboard connections.
Connect the Monitor Cables
Once you’ve connected the other wires from your motherboard and power supply, plug in all of the monitor cables to their designated spots on the motherboard. This includes the display port, DVI, HDMI, and VGA cables.
Whether your monitor is an LCD or LED, be sure to plug it in the correct way. This will help avoid damage to your display and ensure that it works the way you want it to.
If you’re using a computer mouse and keyboard, be sure to connect them to the proper USB ports on your computer. These devices typically have a red or green label, which will tell you where to plug them into.
Don’t forget to connect any extra cables you have, such as the microphone, speakers, or video out cable from your DVD player or Blu-Ray player. These devices don’t have a dedicated USB port, so you’ll need to connect them to the right ones on your motherboard and power supply.
The last step in connecting your components is to wire up your desktop, monitor, and keyboard. Getting everything wired up in this manner will allow you to maximize your desk space and create a more ergonomic workspace for your computer. This will also increase your productivity by keeping the computer and other equipment off of your wrists, back, or eyes.
