Build checklist

[dubcat]

Hi - I'm building only my second system ever and actually my first build in 15 years. I put together a list of things I need to do so I don't get overwhelmed when all the bits arrive. I'm NEVER this organised but I may be without a computer before the build happens so Googling for info will be on my phone and I thought I'd do some planning for once.

Am I missing anything and is anything in the wrong order?

Prep

• Prep Win 11 install, memtest64 and BIOS update USB keys

Build

• Remove case panels and install correct standoffs and i/o plate
• Prep motherboard
  • Install CPU and cooler, connect cooler power cable
  • Install mem in to slots A2 and B2 (confirm position with FIRST label on motherboard)
  • Install NVME drive
• Install motherboard
• Connect motherboard to front panel header and case ARGB controller
• Connect fans to ARGB controller or motherboard - need to find out where to connect fans
• Install PSU and connect to motherboard ATX and CPU connectors
• Install 5700 XT GPU
  • Remove two slot covers
  • Connect to PSU with 2 PCI-E cables (clip will be on top)
• Insert BIOS update USB key, reboot on and enter BIOS settings
  • Set boot sequence to be USB first then NVME second
  • Turn off auto-optimisation settings for stability during Windows install
  • Update BIOS by selecting m-flash

OS

• Install Windows via USB drive (pull drive on reboot when screen goes black after file copy)
• Windows update
• Install AMD graphics driver amd.com/en/support
• Set refresh rate via driver settings in control panel or Windows display settings
• Install motherboard software and set up
• Reboot and enter BIOS menu
  • Turn on Expo and reboot in to BIOS menu to check POST and train RAM
  • Check RAM is running at 3600
  • Turn on BIOS optimisation settings

Peripherals

• Connect Magic keyboard and install Razer mouse software
• Plug in Steelseries USB headphone receiver and connect them up
• Connect bluetooth soundbar

Testing

• Run realbench for 16 hours
• memtest if not done pre Windows install

 

[dubcat]

If you're connected to the Internet immediately after the install Windows will try to install the graphics driver and other drivers, so I prefer not to be connected and download them myself, though I know Windows 11 is a pain to do an offline install.

Thanks for the tip on the slot covers. I’ll remove those before installing the motherboard.

I’m not clued up enough to do workarounds to bypass any hassle caused by doing an offline install. What’s the best thing to do if I’m installing online?