Ryzen 7 5800X + RX 6800 – Building the Ultimate Budget 1440p Gaming Rig!

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OVERVIEW:

In today’s TEKDEP repair tutorial, we’re walking through the full assembly of our customer’s very first gaming PC. This step-by-step guide covers the complete process, from prepping the motherboard and installing the CPU to wiring the case and finishing with a powerful GPU. Whether you’re a first-time builder or just brushing up, this guide will help you understand each essential step. All components used were carefully selected for performance and affordability, making it a great baseline for a powerful gaming rig. Follow along for a smooth and educational PC build.

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REPAIR TIME & SKILL LEVEL:

This repair is estimated to take about 2 to 3 hours to complete and is of INTERMEDIATE difficulty, requiring careful handling of components and basic knowledge of PC assembly.

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STEPS:

Tools You Need

For this build, you will need a Phillips screwdriver, an anti-static wrist strap, a plastic spudger for safe cable management, and a thermal paste applicator. These tools will help ensure a safe and damage-free installation process.

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Unbox and Prep the Motherboard

• Begin by removing the motherboard from its box and setting aside any documentation.
• This build uses the ASRock B450M AC motherboard, chosen for its built-in Wi-Fi and budget-friendly performance.
• Handle the motherboard gently by its edges and place it on an anti-static surface.

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Install the CPU

• Lift the retention arm on the socket.
• Align the golden triangle on the Ryzen 7 5800X CPU with the triangle on the motherboard.
• Drop it gently into the socket, give it a small wiggle, and lock it into place by lowering the arm.

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Install DDR4 RAM

• Use memory slots A2 and B2 for optimal performance and latency.
• Carefully align the DIMMs to match the key notch before pressing down until they click.
• Ensure both latches snap into place securely.

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Install the NVMe SSD

• Insert the Crucial P3 500GB SSD into the M.2 slot; it is keyed and fits only one way.
• Secure it with the M.2 screw that came with the motherboard.
• Confirm it is level and snugly installed.

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Remove AM4 Stock Brackets

• Unscrew and remove the default AM4 retention brackets from the motherboard.
• This is required to fit the AK620 Zero Dark CPU Cooler.

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Unbox the CPU Cooler

• Open the AK620 Zero Dark cooler and set aside the additional fan for later use.
• Locate the included mounting hardware in the accessory box.

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Install CPU Cooler Brackets

• Attach the mounting posts with plastic washers to the motherboard’s backplate.
• Use holes labeled “D” for AM4 compatibility and face the arrow on the bracket toward the CPU.
• Secure them with the included top retention brackets.

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Mount the CPU Cooler

• Position the cooler over the CPU and attach using the appropriate screws.
• Ensure even pressure across the cooler while tightening.

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Wire the CPU Cooler Fans

• Use the included fan splitter to connect the fans to the CPU fan header.
• The header may be hidden behind the cooler, so plug in before final mounting if needed.

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Remove the Case Side Panel

• Slide off the side panel of your PC case to begin internal installation.
• Keep screws in a safe spot for reinstallation later.

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Install the IO Shield

• Align the IO shield with the motherboard layout and press it into the rear case slot.
• Listen for audible clicks to confirm it’s properly seated.

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Install the Motherboard in the Case

• Carefully place the motherboard into the case, aligning it with the standoffs.
• Secure it using screws; this step was done off-camera due to visibility issues.

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Connect Front Panel USB Ports

• Plug in the front panel USB 3.0 header, ensuring it snaps securely into the motherboard.
• Connect the front panel USB 2.0 header, aligning the dead pin for proper orientation.

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Pre-wire the Front Panel Connectors

• Connect the power switch, reset switch, HDD LED, and power LED cables.
• This was pre-wired off-screen due to visibility constraints.

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Install the Power Supply

• Slide in the Thermaltake 700W Smart Power Supply from the rear of the case.
• Plug in the pre-installed 8-pin EPS cable and connect the 24-pin motherboard cable.

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Install the Graphics Card

• Use the Radeon RX 6800 non-XT GPU, ideal for 1440p or light 4K gaming.
• Remove any protective films, especially over the fans.
• Insert into the PCIe slot and secure with screws.

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CONCLUSION:

This guide walked you through the full process of building a capable gaming PC step-by-step. From CPU installation to GPU fitting, each part was selected for value and performance. With patience and proper attention, even a first-time builder can create a high-performance system. Whether gaming or streaming, this build will offer strong results. Be sure to follow each step carefully for best outcomes.

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VIDEO TUTORIAL:

Looking for a more in-depth tutorial? Check out our complete teardown video for a detailed step-by-step walkthrough.

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MAIL-IN REPAIR SERVICE:

We offer professional PC building services. If you’re unsure about assembling your system yourself, send your components to our expert technicians for fast and reliable assembly.

https://tekdep.com/device-repair/

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SHOP PARTS:

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SHOP TOOLS:

Using precision tools ensures a safe and efficient repair. Always use the right tools to prevent damage to delicate components.

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HAVE QUESTIONS?

We’re here to help! Contact us.

• Phone: 818-456-4479
• Email: support@tekdep.com

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YOUR EXPERIENCE MATTERS: