MB Documentation

I've been running my first computer (Compaq) for 3 yrs now - and I want to build my next computer myself. I think it would be very interesting and enjoyable to do this - and I would advance my knowledge. But, I would like some suggestions on which brand of motherboard to get. I've read a lot on the forums that some MB's come with very good manual and documentation - and others very poor manual. The wrong choice - with lousy manual - would probably bust my project. So, any recomendations - I'll need all the help I can get. Cliff

 

Look around for a board that fits your needs. When you find one go to the company's website. Most of them have the manual for you to download.

 

Thanks Russ, but I'm wondering if any particular MB manufacturer is noted for having comprehensive, easy-to-understand manuals - and perhaps other manufacturers are noted for having poor documenetation. Cliff

 

The first thing you have to do is choose a processor.
Once you make that choice then that cuts the field in half.
I have been building a lot of machines lately and Giga-Byte has been the bomb lately.
Best bang for the buck right now is AMD XP 2100.
Go to AMDs Recomended Mother Boards and look at what they recomend.

 

ASUS is rather easy IMHO

Hi Cliff
I can recommend ASUS as one of the better choices, just completed a new unit using ASUS and it was a piece of cake. Do your research before making the selections to ensure you get all the right pieces first time out.

 

Cliff, I wouldn't count on the manual that comes with the mobo to provide you with the needed info to build a system. Mobo manuals, while they do have some pointers on installing RAM, CPUs, and heatsinks, are mostly just for reference - i.e. how to find the jumpers. Honestly, I don't even bother with them anymore as jumpers are less common now and are often labelled right on the board.

I suggest you find a tech site with a step-by-step instructions on how to build a PC. Or have an experienced friend sit back and watch. Or post any questions you have here. Some common pitfalls and recommendations:
- putting a metal standoff in the wrong place in the case causing a short on the back of your motherboard
- handling components without first discharging static by touching your case (bare metal).
- installing the mobo before installing the ram, cpu, and heatsink first.
- forgetting to up the FSB in your bios from 100 to 133 (if needed).
- always make the ATX power connector your LAST power connection.
...the list is endless...

Good board mfrs. include Asus, Abit, MSI, Gigabyte, and Epox. As a first timer I would probably choose from these even though I've used others without problem. I highly recommend Epox because of their reliability and good customer service.

Good luck and go slow! A logical, methodical approach can save many a headache.