Start the build outside of the case, use the box the motherboard came in as a table. Install the cpu, ram, hook up the psu (fully modular if your budget allows), power on and make sure all works. Easier to troubleshoot this way.

Sounds good, I’ll check it out - thanks!

On Windows:

• Bitwarden, password manager (FOSS, but paid account or contribution(s) made - support development!)
• Advanced Renamer, just what it says (FOSS, but paid account or contribution(s) made - support development!)
• FreeFileSync, terrific file sync app (FOSS, but paid account or contribution(s) made - support development!)
• VLC, media player
• WizTree, folder comparison (FOSS, but paid account or contribution(s) made - support development!)
• Notepad ++, use it everyday (FOSS, but paid account or contribution(s) made - support development!)
• Everything, ditch Windows Search!
• Plex, Emby, Jellyfin for media streaming (Jellyfin is FOSS, Plex can be free, Emby??? - have Plex and Emby Lifetime accounts)
• caddy server, easy to set up and use

Android:

• FairEmail - best email client around (FOSS, but paid account or contribution(s) made - support development!)
• nzb360 - monitor all your arr apps (FOSS, but paid account or contribution(s) made - support development!)
• Tautulli - Plex stats on steroids (Android, plus also on Windows)
• Nova, great launcher (FOSS, but paid account or contribution(s) made - support development!)
• Standard Notes FOSS, but paid account or contribution(s) made - support development!)
• Authy
• Boost, soon to be gone thanks to reddit CEO
• Sports Alert (FOSS, but paid account or contribution(s) made - support development!)

Probably missed some, but the above are essential to my everyday use.