› Process
- You will be divided into groups by your instructor.
- Each group member will choose one type of computer to build from the list on the Roles Page.
- Each group member will also select three components to be the group's expert on.
- Research! Read the online discussion boards linked to on the Links Page. Post questions when you have them; in my experience these boards are an invaluable resource when you are preparing to build a compute. As always, remember our discussion of online safety.
- Research some more! Read the articles and reviews at the sites listed on the Links Page. These are some of the best known sites in the Internet, but the list certainly isn't exhaustive. If you find a site you like, send it to me so that I can include it as a resource for your peers.
- Start selecting parts for your computer. This is an iterative process. As you make your selections, feel free to re-visit previous choices and change them. There is always something new coming out and prices are always fluctuating. Don't be afraid to change your mind.
- Shop different stores to find the best prices. There are links to some of the better known sellers on the Links Page. Remember, you are working within a budget and no one would complain if you came in under it.
- Prepare a presentation for the class about the computer you built. Your presentation should cover who exactly is the intended user, what components you selected, and, most importantly, why you made the choices you did. Were there any trade-offs you had to make? What would you do differently if you had $50 more in your budget? $100?
Continue on to the Links Page...