Reflecting on My Computer Building Journey

A few years ago, my sole ambition was to build computers. I invested a significant amount of money in hardware and dedicated a substantial amount of time to constructing custom computers for myself and my friends. What started as a hobby turned into an obsession with perfecting every aspect of my system.

(Older system of mine)

Initially, gaming was the primary reason for building these powerful machines. However, I eventually found myself more engrossed in the process of upgrading and optimizing my systems rather than actually playing games. My focus shifted to tinkering with hardware, overclocking, undervolting, and constantly seeking ways to push the limits of my rigs.

In my last system, I achieved the pinnacle of customization. Here’s a rundown of what I accomplished:

• CPU: Overclocked and undervolted for optimal performance.
• RAM: Tweaked timings and frequencies to squeeze out every bit of speed.
• GPU: Overclocked, undervolted, and adorned with a custom backplate featuring RGB lighting.
• Cooling: Installed a custom water cooling loop for superior thermal management.
• CPU Delidding: Delidded the CPU and added a custom lid to improve cooling.
• Storage: Set up 2x RAID 0 configurations, 1x with two SSDs (512GB) and 1x with two HDDs (4TB) for maximum speed and capacity.
• Operating Systems: Heavily optimized both Debian and Windows 10 in a dual-boot setup, which often required extensive reconfigurations after some Windows updates.

Complete Spec List

• Case: Corsair 250D (with “soundproofing” AKASA AK-PAX-2 PAX Mate installed on panels)
• Remote RF Power-on/Reboot Controller: SilverStone SST-ES02
• PSU: Corsair RM750X
• Motherboard: ASUS Maximus VII Impact
• CPU: Intel I7 4790K @ 4.75GHz (with Thermal Grizzly Conductonaut between IHS and CPU, IHS from Rockit Cool)
• RAM: G.Skill TridentX 16GB DDR3 @ 2.42GHz
• GPU: MSI GTX 1080TI 11GB Gaming X @ 2.12GHz
• CPU Block: EKWB EK-Supremacy EVO Acetal
• Radiator: EKWB EK-CoolStream SE 240 with x2 Akasa Apache Fans
• Fittings:
  • 6x EKWB EK-ACF 16/10mm G1/4 Black
  • 2x EKWB EK-AF Angled 90’ G1/4 Black
  • EKWB Extension M-M
  • 1x XSPC LCD Temp Sensor V2 (G1/4 Inline Sensor)
• Reservoir: EKWB EK-XRES 140 Revo D5 RGB
• Tube: Primochill Primoflex Advanced LRT 16/10MM
• Coolant: Mayhems X1 Clear
• Thermal Paste: Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut
• Case Fans:
  • 2x Noctua NF-A8 Chromax
  • 1x Noctua NF-A14 Chromax
  • 1x Noctua NF-A9 Chromax (Mounted at the back of HDDs opening, as an extra exhaust)
• Fan Controller: NZXT Sentry 3
• Storage:
  • 2x Samsung 850 Pro SSD (RAID 0)
  • 2x Seagate Firecuda 2TB HDD (RAID 0)
• Cosmetics: RGB LED Strip, CableMod PRO ModMesh C-Series Red cables

Every component of my system was meticulously chosen and configured. I derived immense satisfaction from this process, but eventually, I reached a point where I no longer used the system for its intended purpose. My passion had shifted entirely to maintaining and fine-tuning the machine rather than utilizing it.

I decided to move on when I got my Steam Deck. Although I heavily customized it as well, the Steam Deck rekindled my love for gaming. It allowed me to play wherever I wanted, not just in my home office, where I also spent much of my time working. This newfound flexibility and convenience made me realize it was time to let go of my custom-built PC.

Now, I feel a sense of relief and happiness from this decision. My journey in building and perfecting computers was incredibly fulfilling, but it was time to embrace new pursuits and challenges.

(My complete setup before selling everything)

Letting go of my custom-built system was a significant step, marking the end of an era. It taught me the importance of recognizing when to move on and finding joy in new beginnings. As I look back, I am grateful for the experience and the skills I acquired along the way. Now, I look forward to discovering what new adventures lie ahead.

(My setup in 2023)