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

Random Access Memory (RAM) 1 Hard Disk Drive

You’ll want to purchase an AGP video card, which is better than a PCI video card. Be sure your mainboard has an AGP slot for an AGP video card. The video card will have a connector into which you’ll plug your monitor (see Figure 19).

The video connector will be visible from the back of the PC. Most video monitors use the older analog connector that is common with CRT computer monitors.

Newer video cards often have two monitor connectors—one for use with CRT monitors and the other a digital connector for use with LCD monitors. While many LCD monitors support the older analog connection, if you plan to use an LCD monitor, it’s best to choose a video card with a digital connector.

I’d recommend avoiding mainboards with built-in video connectors. It’s better to use a video card.

Random Access Memory (RAM) 1 Hard Disk Drive