Affordable Components for Building a New PC or Single Board Computer
Building a functional PC or a single board computer (SBC) doesn't have to break the bank. In this article, we will explore the cheapest parts you can buy to successfully assemble your own system, covering everything from monitors and keyboards to single board computers like the Raspberry Pi.
Building a Cheap PC
When starting from scratch, you can create a functional PC with surprisingly low costs. For instance, a 22-inch monitor can be purchased for as little as $100. A wireless keyboard and mouse set can be had for around $20. Additionally, finding a stick computer for $86 and turning it into a usable system with Chrome OS might cost you just over $100 per unit, including an annual subscription for cloud storage at $20.
A 4-port USB hub costing $6 can help you connect multiple peripherals, and a USB drive can store local files. With these components, you can have a working PC for roughly $220, with no antivirus or other unnecessary software costs. Regular operating system updates occur every six weeks and are usually hassle-free.
APUs and Gaming Systems
For those looking to build a more powerful system, consider an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), such as an AMD Ryzen APU. These units combine CPU and GPU in a single chip, often costing as little as $99. Such a setup would cost around $250 if you were to buy a separate CPU and GPU. With some budgeting and by capitalizing on sales, you can build a capable 1080p gaming system for $300 or less.
Utilizing Your Existing Desktop
If you already own a desktop, you can repurpose it for a cheaper build. Carefully disassembling and reassembling your PC can be done with some guidance, such as watching YouTube tutorials. Take photos of every component to help you remember how they fit together. Common pitfalls include putting the cooler in incorrectly, using the wrong screws, or incorrectly installing a GPU. By following these steps, you can save a significant amount on hardware costs.
Exploring Single Board Computers
For a completely different and often cheaper approach, consider using a single board computer like the Raspberry Pi. These affordable boards pack a surprising amount of power. All you need to add is a power supply, an SD or microSD card, and a display, such as a TV or monitor. Additional boards can be added to add more functionality, like an X105 board, which provides a VGA port, RS-232C, and additional SD card reader.
Raspberry Pi can be turned into various devices, including a laptop, tablet, or even a phone, by adding peripherals such as a keyboard and mouse. Components for Raspberry Pi are easily found on sites like eBay, and even batteries that provide portable charging can be used as a power supply.
Conclusion
Building a PC or an SBC does not have to be expensive. By choosing affordable components and utilizing existing systems, you can create a functional and powerful system without breaking the bank. Whether you're building for gaming, work, or hobby, there is always a cost-effective option available.
Key Components to Consider:
Monitor: $100 Keyboard and mouse: $20 Stick computer (for Chrome OS): $86 USB hub: $6 SD card: $10 Raspberry Pi: as low as $99With careful planning and purchasing, you can build a system that suits your needs and budget.