Step 1: Start With the Motherboard

Put the motherboard onto a flat, esd safe surface. This rule should be followed for all components throughout this system build. Use anti static mats and wristbands to discharge any static charge.

Step 2: Insert the RAM

Line up the notches in the slot with the notches on the bottom of the RAM stick. Push firmly on both ends of the RAM until it snaps firmly into place.

Step 3: Insert the CPU

This processor is PGA, so we will use the ZIF (zero insertion force) method for inserting the processor. Look at the corners of the processor and locate a golden triangle. This triangle will line up with a triangle on the cpu slot, ensuring that is not oriented wrong. Make sure the cpu lever is all the way up, and insert the cpu. Once it has been slotted, push the lever all the way down to secure the connection.

Step 4: Apply Thermal Paste and Attach Heat Sink

Apply a dot of thermal paste that is the size of an uncooked grain of rice to the cpu. Attach the cpu cooler by placing on top of the cpu. To secure the cooler clip the cooler onto both sides of the cpu bracket, then tighten the retention arm until it snaps into place. Attach the cpu fan to the cpu fan header.

Step 5: Connect the PSU

Insert the 20+4 pin cable into its slot, which is usually to the right of the cpu. Then take the 4 pin cpu power cable and plug it into its slot, which is located to the upper left of the cpu. Plug in the speaker to the system header 2.

Step 6: Power on the System

Flip the switch on the back of the PSU to the "1" and touch the tip of a screwdriver to the power switch pins to complete the circuit. If everything works, power down the system by flipping the switch to "0".

Step 7: Insert Standoffs and Motherboard

Pop the i/o shield into place and screw standoffs into the case (standoff locations differ based on motherboard form factor). Place the motherboard into the case, on top of the standoffs. Then proceed to screw the motherboard in, using the standoff locations around the board.

Step 8: Install the PSU

Line the PSU up with the correct orientation, insert it, and screw it into place. Connect all corresponding power cables- SATA power, 4 pin cpu, and 20+4pin motherboard.

Step 9: Install HDD

Slide the Hard Drive into an open drive bay and secure it using the included tightening clips. Plug the SATA data and power cables into the drive.

Step 10: Plug in All Connectors

Plug in all system fans to their closest header. Plug in front panel USB connectors and audio connectors to their corresponding ports. Find system header 1 and plug in the connectors to their assigned places (pay close attention to where the positive and negative ends go.

Step 11: Verify System Functionality

Re-attach the case side panels and connect all peripheral devices. Power on the system and verify full functionality. With the case speaker plugged in, you should hear a beep when the system is powered on.