How to be sure all the parts will fit in the case... build quality, and general building procedure

[Michelle Beth]

Hi again.

I'm kind of confused on how to make sure the case I end up buying will work with all the components I get. Do all cases generally fit all motherboards? Is there a way to make sure?

I'm also curious about build quality. I've heard the term thrown around before and assume it refers to how well the parts are combined as well as the quality of each individual part? Is this correct?

And finally, is there a preferred sequence for assembling the computer? Like, would you first insert the CPU in place in the motherboard, then attach the CPU fan, then insert the ram, and then the video card, etc etc.

Is there a certain sequence that's best.. or do people do it their own different ways?

How shall I plan to have the best design? I know the video card should have some empty space around it, because it can get hot.. and that you should plan on accounting for the airflow through the chassis.

The last thing I want to do is spend money and buy a bunch of computer parts, and then somehow screw up the build quality.

When I finalize my decision for all of the components, is there a way to plan a head for where each of them should go?

Thanks a bunch!

 

[PyjamasCat]

Hi, have you got a list of parts you have selected or would you like some help with that?

First, the case. There are different types of cases and mobos. Some cases will fit many types of mobo while others won't. I would suggest looking at any ATX mobo and ATX supporting case. To determine whether the GPU will fit in the case, most will run to the end of the mobo or extend a little further. Finding an image of the case with a mobo in it and see if it has some room before it hits the HDD slots.

As for the sequence, generally I would set up the standoffs in the case, put CPU (and RAM if you want) into the mobo, mobo into the case, PSU in and run cables to appropriate places, run front panle cables to mobo, add GPU and HDD's, plug in PSU cables and run. Others might have a better way but that is how I would probably do it again.

Quality of build. Could mean anything from the parts used to the way you set it up. I don't really know, but most things we suggest are quality parts anyway.

If you give us your preferred budget and location (US, UK Aus etc...) we can help you decide.

 

[PyjamasCat]

For building, watch some YouTube videos so you can see the parts go in. (And decide for yourself if you think you could do it better or safer )

Also, what do you mean with that last sentence?

 

[Michelle Beth]

Thanks guys.

I'm located in the US. I'm actually going to be getting the parts from Microcenter, which is about a half hour from my place. I'll be using the system to do photo editing with Adobe programs like Photoshop, inDesign, Illustrator, etc. I also may use 3d programs such as Maya and Max. I'll have multiple Adobe programs at once, (3 or so), so I need a system that can handle multiple RAM hungry programs open at once. I want to emphasize longevity as well. My budget is around $2,000. I know the VGA is a bit of an overkill, but I want one that has the best longevity or whatever you'd call it.

I'm considering the following (nothing is set in stone.. I go back and forth):
Edit: Added Links to each part.

CPU: Intel i7 Haswell
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819116901

VGA: GeForce GTX 780
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814130918

Sound Card: Creative Sound Blaster Audigy SE
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16829102012

RAM: 16GB of either RipJaw or Crucial
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820148545

Motherboard: Asus Maximus VI Hero
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131989

PSU: Corsair HX Series HX850 850 Watt
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139011

Case: Cooler Master HAF 912 - High Air Flow Mid Tower Computer Case (maybe?)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811119233

Case Fan: Not sure yet.

Thanks for the advice to look up youtube vids too! I've watched all of newegg's ones on building computers, and I'm the kind of person that researches things a ton before making any move... lol.

By my last sentence, the one on build quality? I just hear the term sometimes and wanted to know if it means how the parts are assembled and/or the quality of the parts.

 

[PyjamasCat]

That looks great! If time is money to you, I would suggest looking into a proper CAD/workstation GPU like a Firepro or Quadro (if the cost isn't an issue). You will have lots of tasks completed faster. I would also suggest an aftermarket CPU cooler as well, like the Noctua NH-D14 or the Cooler Master Hyper 212 Evo, otherwise that build looks fantastic.