How to Build a Computer: Questions and Answers

Q: I am trying to build a computer and need some help with some terms that are being used.

1) What is an MGP Slot?

2) What connects to an ATX connector?

3) What connects to a FDD header?

4) What connects to a IDE header?

And, 5) do I need a 56K hookup?

A:

1) This is correctly a AGP graphics card as described above. It is faster then a PCI card, but if you are building your own ATX computer, it is most likely that the Graphic will be on the board. Unless you plan to be a gamer, don't waste your money on a AGP card, save it for a scanner.

2) ATX connector: ATX is a type of board. You have AT/ATX towers; you will want to make sure that the ATX board matches the ATX tower. As far as the connectors, ATX is a solid connection; an AT is a dual connection to the motherboard.

3) FDD connection is for your Floppy drive; this will be the smaller ribbon connector on the motherboard, and this ribbon then goes to the back of the Floppy drive.

4) IDE connection: There is a primary and secondary. Primary goes to your hard drive, secondary goes to your CD-ROM; these are the thicker ribbons. Make sure that the red line of the ribbon is inline with pin 1 on both of these; they also plug in the back.

5) 56K hookup: This is a PCI Modem that you will install into the white PCI Block for Internet; you should have software that comes with that card.