How to Build Your Own PC - Save A Buck And Learn A Lot  9  Chapter 2: Component Overview

Keyboard and Mouse 1 Chapter 3: Installing the CPU, Heatsink, and RAM On The Mainboard

The most popular operating system is Microsoft Windows. The newest version is Windows XP. We’ll show you how to install Windows XP on your system. And, we’ll demonstrate installing Linux, a free operating system available over the Internet. Boxed versions of Linux are also available for purchase. If your connection to the Internet is a slow dial-up connection, you’ll probably want to purchase Linux in a retail box. Or else have a friend with a faster DSL or cable modem connection download the Linux CDs for you. We’ll also show how to install a dual boot operating system.

When purchasing your Windows operating system, be sure to purchase it as OEM software when you purchase your mainboard. OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. Microsoft allows its software to be purchased for slightly less if the software is being purchased with a new system or hardware components.

When buying main components for your new system, such as a mainboard, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase OEM software. (This is why if you purchase Microsoft software on eBay, for example, the seller might send along an old hard drive. Microsoft’s licensing agreement demands that the software only be sold with original equipment to build a system.)

When you purchase your mainboard, be sure to examine the vendor’s selection of OEM software and determine if there is anything you wish to purchase.

If you forget to purchase some OEM software that you want, just purchase some low-priced component, such as a small hard drive, and you’ll be able to buy the OEM software then.

OEM software is usually better than upgrade software. For example, Windows 98 OEM CDs will boot from the CD, while Windows 98 upgrade CDs won’t. Plus, upgrade CDs will inspect your system for a prior version of Windows. Or, you’ll need to insert your disk from your previous operating system to perform the install. So, if you upgraded from Windows 95 to Windows 98, don’t throw out your Windows 95 CD! In the near future, Microsoft plans to stop supporting Windows 98. I’d recommend Windows XP or Windows XP Professional for your new system.

Keyboard and Mouse 1 Chapter 3: Installing the CPU, Heatsink, and RAM On The Mainboard