SOP: Custom PC Build Consultation

Document Type: Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
Version: 1.0
Status: Approved for Use
Audience: Technician + Client
Confidentiality: Internal / Client Delivery
Platforms Supported: N/A (Consultation Service)

1. Purpose

To provide expert hardware recommendations and consultation services for clients seeking to build custom PCs tailored to their specific use cases, budget, and performance requirements.

2. Scope

This SOP applies to:

Custom PC build consultations for gaming, content creation, AI/ML workloads, and productivity
Hardware compatibility validation and optimization
Budget analysis and performance-per-dollar recommendations
Upgrade path planning and future-proofing strategies

Not included:

Actual PC assembly (see Full Custom PC Build SOP)
Software installation and configuration
Long-term technical support beyond consultation deliverables

3. Responsibilities

Technician Responsibilities

Conduct thorough needs assessment and use-case analysis
Provide hardware recommendations based on current market prices and performance
Validate component compatibility using PCPartPicker and manufacturer specifications
Create detailed parts lists with alternative options at different price points
Document upgrade paths and future-proofing considerations

Client Responsibilities

Provide accurate information about intended use cases and budget constraints
Communicate aesthetic preferences and specific requirements
Review and approve final recommendations before purchasing
Understand that consultation fee applies 100% toward full build service

4. Requirements

4.1 Client Information Required

Primary use case (gaming, streaming, video editing, AI/ML, productivity)
Target resolution and refresh rate (for gaming)
Budget range (minimum and maximum)
Aesthetic preferences (RGB, color scheme, case style)
Future upgrade intentions

4.2 Technician Tools Required

PCPartPicker account for compatibility checking
Current market pricing data (multiple retailers)
Hardware benchmark database
Component compatibility knowledge base

5. Procedure — Consultation Process

5.1 Initial Contact and Information Gathering

Welcome and Introduction
- Explain consultation process and deliverables
- Clarify consultation fee structure ($30-$60)
- Confirm fee applies 100% toward full build
Use Case Assessment
- Document primary and secondary use cases
- Identify performance priorities (FPS, render times, AI inference speed)
- Note specific software requirements
Budget Discussion
- Establish firm budget range
- Discuss flexibility and priorities
- Explain cost distribution (CPU/GPU/RAM/storage trade-offs)

5.2 Needs Assessment Questionnaire

Use the following decision tree to guide recommendations:

flowchart TD
    A[What's your primary use?] --> B{Gaming}
    A --> C{Content Creation}
    A --> D{AI/ML Workloads}
    A --> E{General Productivity}

    B --> F[What resolution?]
    F --> G[1080p: Mid-tier GPU]
    F --> H[1440p: High-tier GPU]
    F --> I[4K: Top-tier GPU]

    C --> J[What type of content?]
    J --> K[Streaming: High CPU + GPU]
    J --> L[Video Editing: High CPU + RAM]
    J --> M[Photo Editing: Balanced]

    D --> N[Local AI: High VRAM GPU]
    D --> O[Training: Multi-GPU + High RAM]

    E --> P[Budget Build: Integrated Graphics OK]

5.3 Hardware Recommendation Process

CPU Selection
- Match core count and clock speed to workload
- Consider platform upgrade path (AM5 vs LGA1700)
- Balance with GPU selection for target resolution
GPU Selection
- Base on performance targets and resolution
- Consider VRAM requirements for specific applications
- Factor in power consumption and cooling needs
Memory Configuration
- Minimum 16GB for most users
- 32GB+ for content creators and AI/ML workloads
- Consider speed and timing optimizations
Storage Strategy
- NVMe SSD for OS and primary applications
- SATA SSD or HDD for bulk storage
- Consider RAID configurations for data safety
Power Supply Selection
- Calculate total system power draw
- Add 20% headroom for stability and future upgrades
- Choose 80+ rating based on efficiency requirements
Motherboard Selection
- Match socket to CPU choice
- Ensure required features (WiFi, ports, expansion slots)
- Consider VRM quality for overclocking potential
Cooling Solution
- Air cooling for most builds (cost-effective)
- AIO liquid cooling for high-end CPUs and compact cases
- Custom loop only for enthusiast builds
Case Selection
- Prioritize airflow and component clearance
- Match aesthetic preferences
- Consider size constraints and portability needs

5.4 Compatibility Validation

PCPartPicker Validation
- Create complete build list in PCPartPicker
- Verify all compatibility warnings are resolved
- Check physical dimensions (GPU length, cooler height)
BIOS Compatibility Check
- Verify motherboard BIOS supports chosen CPU
- Check for potential memory compatibility issues
- Confirm chipset features match requirements
Power Delivery Analysis
- Verify PSU wattage exceeds calculated requirements
- Check PCIe power cable availability for GPU
- Ensure motherboard power connectors are adequate

5.5 Budget Optimization

Performance-per-Dollar Analysis
- Identify sweet spots in CPU and GPU lineups
- Compare similar performance at different price points
- Consider previous-generation components for value
Alternative Options
- Provide ±$200 alternatives for major components
- Explain performance differences between options
- Highlight upgrade paths for budget-constrained builds
Future-Proofing Considerations
- Recommend upgrade-friendly platforms
- Consider storage expansion options
- Plan for potential GPU upgrades

5.6 Deliverable Preparation

Parts List Creation
- Complete component list with current pricing
- Direct purchase links from multiple retailers
- Total cost breakdown with tax/shipping estimates
Documentation Package
- Performance expectations for target use cases
- Upgrade roadmap with timeline recommendations
- Assembly tips and special considerations
Next Steps Guidance
- Self-purchase option with assembly support
- Full build service pricing and timeline
- Consultation fee credit application

6. Validation / Verification

Technician verifies:

All components are compatible and in stock
Total cost aligns with client budget
Performance targets are achievable with selected components
Upgrade paths are realistic and cost-effective

Client verifies:

Use case requirements are fully addressed
Budget constraints are respected
Aesthetic preferences are incorporated
Understanding of next steps and costs

7. Troubleshooting (Common)

Problem	Cause	Fix
Budget exceeded	Premium component selection	Identify cost-saving alternatives without major performance loss
Compatibility issues	New component releases	Update PCPartPicker list and verify manufacturer specifications
Performance concerns	Unrealistic expectations	Educate client on realistic performance targets for budget
Part availability	Supply chain constraints	Suggest alternatives or adjust timeline for availability

8. Maintenance

Update pricing data weekly
Review new component releases monthly
Refresh benchmark data quarterly
Update compatibility database as needed

9. Notes / Warnings

Consultation fee is non-refundable but fully applicable to full build service
Prices fluctuate rapidly; recommend prompt purchasing or build service
Some components may have long lead times; plan accordingly
Always verify warranty terms for recommended components

10. Revision Control

Version: 1.0
Editor: Wizard Tech Services
Next Review: Within 90 Days