Memory Standard Definition

Memory standard is referring to the type of memory being used. The current memory standard most commonly used is DDR3. This stands for double data rate 3. DDR3 is usually delivers speeds between 1066 MHz and 3000 MHz. For every new version of DDR memory there is a increase in attainable speeds. It is expected that DDR4 memory speeds will vary between 2133 MHz and 4266 MHz.

Form Factor Definition

A form factor is an industry standard that ensures that all components of a computer fit together properly. The most commonly used form factor for custom PC builders is ATX. There are other form factors such as Micro ATX, extended ATX, HPTX, mini ITX and so on. A computer case will have a list of compatible form factors. Motherboards and power supplies must be the same form factor as the case.

Tops Reasons to Build a Computer

Lets face it. There is nothing more awesome than to be able to say that you built your own computer. But why would somebody want to go through the trouble in the first place?

1. Experience
   
   Building a computer is actually an easy process once you learn what parts to buy. Everything is usually explained in the motherboard manual how to piece everything together. Seriously, just knowing how to take your computer apart makes things so much easier when you want to upgrade expand upon your current build.
   
2. Long Term Cost
   
   Now days, computers have really become like appliances in our daily lives. We absolutely need them but we don't have to buy a new one every two or three years to stay up with the times. However, there are some parts that do need to be replaced from time to time. Places like Best Buy only care about making the computer as cheap as possible. This often restricts you in several ways such as having weak power supplies which can limit how good of a video card you can upgrade to if you decide your computer is too slow. When you build your own PC, you can design it so you can upgrade it later and it won't be stuck in a outdated state.
   
3. Customize
   
   The most fun part of building a computer is choosing exactly what goes into it. If you want a gaming PC you can shift your funds to buy a better video card. If you need to do a lot of encoding you can invest in a better CPU. You can personalize it so it is the perfect computer for your needs.
   
4. Easier to Repair
   
   If a part goes bad, it is super easy to replace because you know exactly what you bought in the first place. It's a nightmare when your motherboard goes bad. You have to disassemble the whole thing! If you have a pre-built computer, sometimes it's a huge hassle trying to get the power connectors from the chassis to match the motherboard. Whereas if you build your own computer, it's very easy to buy a motherboard with a standard form factor that actually fits everything right.
   
5. Manufacture Warranty and Quality of Components
   
   When you build a computer, you know the reputation of all the parts you put into it. You don't have to settle for cheap junk. You can sort by ratings and still find one that's priced decently. Not only that but you have manufacture warranties to back your parts up. These can easily be up to three to five years. By picking and choosing your parts, you know you have a reliable computer. If something does go wrong, you know you don't have to worry about spending more money because you have a manufacture warranty on your side.
   
6. Easier to Overclock!
   
   CPU's might not be improving as quickly anymore but they are still very easy to overclock. If three years go by and your computer is starting to get left behind, bring it up with the times by overclocking it. You can easily buy a cooler for $20 to $30 that will make this happen. I usually like to wait until my warranty on my CPU is over before I overclock it. That way I don't void it early. Once the warranty is up, overclocking can make a significant difference in your computer's performance.