Non-Compatibility of Processor and Motherboard

Processor and Motherboard compatibility is the most important thing to know before you go about assembling a computer. The reason being if you buy a processor that does not support your motherboard or vice-versa, you'll end up losing a huge amount of money because the processor and the motherboard combo are the most expensive components apart from the graphic card.
In case your processor and motherboard are not compatible with each other, either of the following scenarios may take place.

• First, your new processor might not fit into the socket of the motherboard. This option is the better of the two, because it will not damage any component of your system. The only solution is to buy either a new processor or a new motherboard.
• Second, and you better hope this does not happen. The second case, which rarely happens is the time when your incompatible processor gets seated firmly in the motherboard but, does not get recognized by the motherboard and/or perform normally. This may damage either/or both of the components.

So it is extremely necessary that you know if the processor and the motherboard are compatible with each other or not before you go shopping.

How to choose the right cabinet for your desktop?

 The first and foremost important thing to consider before looking for a desktop case is that you know the form factor of your motherboard. If you know it, very well. However, if you don't know it, you should refer to the specifications of your motherboard or check it online. It is usually of the form ATX or micro ATX or BTX or micro BTX. This is important because the form factor decides the shape and size of the motherboard and we would obviously like to buy a cabinet, that can house our motherboard.

Secondly, it is a must that you buy a cabinet that has ample space inside. In simple words, buy a large cabinet. It promotes air flow and will keep your system cool. Thirdly, the case should not conduct electricity. Ensure that the case is not metallic and that each and every screw-hold for the components has rubber or plastic insides. This will help in preventing your system components from getting an electric shock.

Fourthly, there must be ample additional cooling fan attachment space in the cabinet. This is the first and the most critical point for gaming systems. Apart from the mandatory cooling fans present in your SMPS, over the CPU, and above the GPU, there should be provisions to attach more fans at the rear, the left side and in hardcore systems, the front as well.

Fifthly, see that the case has ample of hard drive and optical drive bays, so that you can attach as many HDD's and ODD's as you want. And optionally, look out for the optional components like headphone jacks, the number of USB connectors, etc. that help you in being more productive.

The image on the left shows a nice cabinet, with good cooling provisions.