How to Build a PC: The Beginner's Guide to Building a Mini ITX Computer for your Home or Office

Learn how to build your very own mini-ITX, steam box, HTPC, or home office PC! Do you want to build your own mini-ITX, steam box, home theatre PC, or personal home office computer and have no idea where to start? This book is definitely for you! We walk you step-by-step through the component selection process and even show you the steps we chose to build a sample mini ITX system! We show you how to install Windows 8.1 and update your drivers so you are ready to go after building your own small form factor, steam box, HTPC, or gaming PC! Our sample build included in this guide was created with modern components using only HD photos!

Why should you build your own PC? You will:

Get exactly what you want.
Be positive the components you are using are of the highest quality.
Be able to add minor upgrades later if necessary.
Be able to swap out components for future major upgrades instead of buying an entirely new pc.
Be able to tell people that you built your own computer which will make them think you are awesome.
Our mini ITX system build is as follows:

Case: EVGA Hadron Air

Form Factor: Mini ITX

CPU: Intel Core i5-4670K Quad-Core Desktop Processor 3.4 GHZ 6 MB Cache - BX80646I54670K

Aftermarket CPU Cooler: EVGA mini ITX 92mm, Sleeve, Direct Touch 4 Heat Pipe, Intel Socket 1150/1155/1156 ACX CPU Cooler 100-FS-C901-KR

Motherboard: ASUS H87I-PLUS LGA Socket 1150 Intel H87 Mini ITX Motherboard

Optical Drive: EVGA Slim Slot-Load Internal 8X DVDRW SATA Drive for EVGA Hadron Chassis (OEM-UJ8C5) with SATA Cable 100-OD-S101-BR

Samsung Electronics: 840 EVO-Series 120GB 2.5-Inch SATA III Single Unit Version Internal Solid State Drive MZ-7TE120BW

Operating System: Windows 8.1

Memory (RAM): 1 x CORSAIR Vengeance Pro 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory Model

Mouse: Corsair Raptor M40

Keyboard: Microsoft SIDEWINDER X4 Keyboard

Also note, this same guide can be used to build a gaming PC! The EVGA Hadron is large enough to fit a 780ti! You can use this same guide to build your own gaming rig, small form factor, or HTPC with the EVGA Hadron Air case! We also have a basic troubleshooting guide to assist you with any POST issues!