Hunter’s PC Building 101: Inside the Mind of ASCEND’s Resident Tech Expert

At the ASCEND Day Program, our participants aren’t just learning job skills—they’re discovering passions, unlocking talents, and teaching us things we never knew we needed to learn. Today’s article comes straight from our very own tech expert, Hunter, who has a gift for turning complicated technology into something exciting, empowering, and surprisingly easy to understand.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build your own computer from scratch, you’re in for a treat. Hunter breaks down each step in a way that feels approachable, fun, and confidence-boosting. Let’s take a look under the hood.

Step 1: The Treasure Hunt – Gathering All Your PC Parts

Before you touch a single screw, Hunter emphasizes the golden rule:

“Always make sure you have all the required parts before starting.”

Here’s the official checklist:

Core Components

• CPU (Central Processing Unit) – The brain.

• GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) – Handles graphics, gaming, and smooth visuals.

• RAM (Random Access Memory) – Your system’s short-term memory.

• Storage – Choose from M.2, SSD, or HDD.

• CPU Cooler:

  • Air Cooler (simple and reliable)

  • AIO Water Cooler (more advanced and installed differently)

• PSU (Power Supply Unit) – Feeds power to every component.

• Motherboard – The communication center. Sizes include:

  • E-ATX

  • ATX

  • Micro-ATX

  • Mini-ITX

• Case – The home for all your parts. Must match motherboard size and have working power/reset buttons.

  
  

Helpful Tools

• Thermal paste

• Cleaning wipes

• A screwdriver (magnetic is recommended but not required)

  
  

Step 2: Preparing the Motherboard — The Heart of the System

Hunter always starts with the motherboard because everything else revolves around it.

1. Install the CPU

Gently align the CPU using the corner markers and drop it into place. No force necessary.

2. Install the RAM

Line up the notch in the RAM stick with the slot on the motherboard before pushing it down.Once aligned, press firmly until you hear a satisfying click.

3. Install the CPU Cooler

• Air Cooler: Add thermal paste unless it is pre-applied.

• AIO Water Cooler: Wait to mount it—this comes in a later step.

  
  

4. Install M.2 Storage

A tiny screw and a small slot—simple, but powerful.

Step 3: Moving Into the Case

If your motherboard has a separate I/O shield, install it first.If not, the shield may already be built in.

Carefully screw the motherboard into the case standoffs. You're officially building a PC now.

Step 4: Installing the Power Supply (PSU)

Your PSU options include:

• Modular

• Semi-modular

• Non-modular

  
  

Hunter adds an important note:

Any of these will work as long as the wattage supports your components.And it’s highly recommended to use a PSU with at least an 80+ rating for efficiency and safety.

Mount the PSU so airflow is unobstructed, then begin routing the necessary cables.

Step 5: Cable Time – The Step That Tests Your Patience

Follow Hunter’s order for best results:

1. CPU Power Cable (top-left of motherboard)

2. 24-pin Main Power Cable

3. Case fans into appropriate 3-pin or 4-pin connectors

4. USB 3.0, USB 2.0, and HD Audio into their labeled ports

5. Front Panel Connectors

   • If your case uses a single block connector, easy.

   • If they’re separate tiny pins, refer to the motherboard manual (and maybe take a deep breath).

     
     

Step 6: Installing the AIO Water Cooler

If you have an AIO Water Cooler:

• Decide whether it will act as intake or exhaust.

• Mount the radiator and fans.

• Connect:

  • Radiator fan cables

  • Pump cable (if it has one — if not, skip this)

  • Optional RGB connectors

  • 
    

This step can affect both performance and temperatures.

Step 7: Installing the GPU — The Star of the Show

Hunter puts it perfectly:

“The GPU is often the most expensive part of the whole build.”

Install it in the top PCIe slot for maximum speed.

Important clarification:

• Most GPUs require PCIe power cables, but—

• Low-profile or low-power GPUs may not need any PCIe cables at all.

  
  

If you don’t have a GPU and are using a CPU with integrated graphics (an APU):

Make sure to plug your DisplayPort or HDMI cable into the motherboard, not the empty GPU slot.

This is one of the most common beginner mistakes.

Step 8: Other Storage – SSDs & HDDs

If you're adding additional storage:

• Mount the drive(s) in the case

• Connect SATA power from the PSU

• Connect SATA data to the motherboard

  
  

M.2 might be the superstar, but SSDs and HDDs still play an important role.

Step 9: Cable Management — The Art of Organization

Neat cables = better airflow + better performance + better aesthetics.

Hunter recommends:

• Zip ties

• Velcro straps

• Strategic cable routing

  
  

Or, for beginners, simply making sure nothing blocks airflow.

Step 10: Installing Your Operating System

Your PC won’t run without an OS. Options include:

• Windows

• Linux

• Chrome OS

  
  

Hunter’s reminder:

You cannot install macOS on a PC. Not only is it very complicated — it’s also illegal.

Conclusion: Hunter’s PC Building 101

From CPUs to cooling systems to cable management, Hunter has shown us what it takes to build a computer from scratch—and he makes it achievable for anyone willing to learn.

He wraps it up the same way he does in class:

“That’s it! That’s how to Build a PC 101. Have a good one and stay tuned, folks!”

At ASCEND, we celebrate every skill, every passion, and every expert—just like Hunter—who brings knowledge and confidence to our community.