Learn important hardware specifications before gaming on your computer.
Desktop gaming computers are the most capable gaming hardware on the market, with higher-level graphics and frame-rates than any game console. Their utility as full Windows computers makes them also work well as standard workstations. Gaming computers are much more expensive than consoles or even mainstream computers. Specifications are current as of early 2011.
Motherboard and Processor
Motherboards are separated by the processor socket and chipset. For less expensive gaming computers, AMD processors and compatible motherboards are ideal. They aren't as fast as their Intel counterparts, but on a budget they're excellent choices. For a budget build, an AMD Phenom X4 processor and an 870A-G54 motherboard make a potent combination. For more expensive builds, Intel processors and chipsets offer maximum performance. An Intel Core i5 or Core i7 processor with an X58 or P67 motherboard will offer the maximum gaming performance available.
Graphics Card
The graphics card is the most important part of a gaming computer, and the easiest to upgrade in the computer. Unfortunately, the graphics card is also the most expensive individual part. For a competent gaming computer, you need to spend at least $175 on a graphics card, but ideally around $300. For Nvidia-branded cards, the cheapest card you should consider is the GeForce GTS 250. Increasing in price, you should go to the GTS 450, GTX 460 and GTX 470. At the extreme high end, the GTX 560 and 570 are available. For AMD/ATI, you should start with the Radeon HD 5750, increasing in price and performance to the HD 5770 and 6850. For extreme enthusiasts, the 6870, 6950 and 6970 are available. For even more performance, you can combine Nvidia and AMD/ATI cards using the SLI and Crossfire multi-card systems (compatible motherboards are required).
RAM and Power Supply
Your power supply needs are determined by your components, most importantly the graphics card. For lower-end systems, start with a 500-watt power supply. For high-end cards, use a 650-watt power supply. If you use multiple cards in an SLI or Crossfire, use an 800-watt or greater supply. Modular power supplies are more expensive, but easier to set up. You should install the maximum amount of RAM with the minimum amount of DIMMs you can afford. 4 gigabytes is the minimum you should consider, but more than 8 gigabytes is not necessary. DDR3 RAM is the current standard, and you should use the fastest that your motherboard can handle.
Hard Drives and Solid-State Drives
Most gaming computers use a 7200 rpm hard drive for primary storage. You should get at least a 500-gigabyte model, more if you plan to install more than a dozen games or store high-definition movies. Some manufacturers sell even faster 10,000 rpm drives for enthusiasts. Solid-state drives (SSDs) are extremely fast, but they're low-capacity and very expensive. They should only be considered for extremely high-end builds. If you use an SSD, you'll also need a traditional hard drive for auxiliary storage.
Tags: graphics card, more expensive, power supply, compatible motherboards, gaming computer