new pc

I have a retail computer store near me and am going to see them to assemble parts that are compatible for a build. I tried PC Parts Picker but I think if all the parts came from the store near me it would be easier.
They carry Power Spec parts.
I'll be back but my main concern is cables. I have only replaced a hard drive but have watched many videos and think building might be possible for me.
I was given the term standard work station hardware to avoid a build that was too much so I will start there. I would like to be able to build a VM, and am really not a gamer.
If I could build for about $1200 I wonder if I could get a moderate graphics card. I have heard the integrated ones are good if you do not game- I'll see.
I hope someone can help me out when I am stuck; I will read the manuals but at times they do not cover it all.
I have a wrist band will get some magnetic screwdrivers and begin with the motherboard and CPU. I am not sure to use a cooler or not. B Back.

maranna said:

I have a retail computer store near me and am going to see them to assemble parts that are compatible for a build...................
I have a wrist band will get some magnetic screwdrivers and begin with the motherboard and CPU. I am not sure to use a cooler or not. B Back.

I'm a bit confused here.

Above quote implies you are going to have a store assemble parts.

Then you say you have a wrist band, which implies you are going to do the assembly.

Several weeks ago in another thread, you seemed to be locked into buying an assembled machine directly from a Microcenter store near you.

Please clarify.

There's no need to bother with a graphics card for your non-gaming purposes. If necessary, you can add one later on.

Some Intel processors include a cooler and some don't. You can get a decent one for under $50 if necessary.

The last I heard, you were going to get a pre-assembled Intel i7-8700K, 16 GB of RAM, Windows 10 Pro, a 750 watt power supply, and an Asus Z370 gaming motherboard. Has any of that changed?

In defense of my vacillating, buying or building a computer is not a task to be taken lightly so every day I was investigating and therefore, change my mind as variables changed.
Yes I was very tempted to build.
Dell called this am with discounts to lure me to their build. I had to inform them I revisited Micro Center which revised their parts list and will build what I want for $150 labor while I get a 2 year warranty for $150.
I can post the parts list if you wish to see but I doubt you do. I am very satisfied with my investigation and apologize to anyone I caused undo duress. I worked diligently to get this PC and am glad I persevered.

You hit the nail on the head; Macrium reflect has been a good friend for over a decade and never failed me. I always make a baseline image after a clean install. Thanks

I'm glad you enjoy helping. Even with images folks like me do need assistance along the way.

Hi,
Micro center would be a good option especially if you have issues easy to to get things fixed.