When to test

[fiatster]

As I about ready to begin building my 1st system, I have a few questions on when and how to test the components. I've done quite a bit of research, but still am not clear as to the best way to proceed. I plan to partially assemble the motherboard outside the case, installing the cpu (i7-4790K), cooler (Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO), memory 2x (G.Skill Ripjaws X Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR3-2133 Memory), onto my motherboard (MSI Z97A GAMING 6 ATX). This motherboard does not have a power switch on the board itself. I would have to short out the contacts to test the setup, something I'm not super comfortable with. Should I just install the MOBO into the case (Phanteks Enthoo Pro ATX Full Tower Case) and then test it? Also, would this be a good time to update the BIOS or would it be OK to wait until the computer is fully built. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

I also have a question on the Windows 10 install. When is the best time to install the OS? I have seen some install it and update it when the are testing the not yet completed computer and some wait until the build is done.

Sorry for the long winded post. Thank you.

 

[profoundnoah]

If you don't feel comfortable shorting the pins, you should be able to hook up the front power connector to the board without installing it in the case. As long as you boot into the BIOS you should be able to put it in the case without worries. So basically, assemble it outside the case and hook up the front power button connector to the contacts. After making sure you get to the BIOS, turn it off, build it in the case, and then install the OS/drivers.

 

[fiatster]

Sounds good profoundnoah. Thank you.