Quality Control
The quality of any company’s product is dependent on proper control procedures. Our extensive quality control system ensures that your computer receives all the attention needed to make sure you get what you paid for! Every one of our configurations receives a customized checklist, depending on the components in the system, applications we know the customer will be running on it, and other factors. Below is a sample of what our build check-off is like.
Example of Puget Systems Build Checklist
Phase 1 Build / Assembly
Review Work Order, Build Notes, and Internal Status
We review the order and notes to ensure that any special build requests are performed.
Check Parts and Serial Numbers
Before starting assembly on your system, we verify that we have all the correct parts and everything is accounted for.
Install M.2 Drives
We install your M.2 drives to the motherboard.
Assemble Core Components
We assemble the core parts of your system outside the chassis. This includes the motherboard, CPU, CPU cooler, and system memory.
Disable Onboard Video via Switch
We disable the onboard video on this motherboard to avoid conflict with a dedicated video card.
Verify Condition of Chassis and Panels
We inspect your system chassis for any structural or cosmetic defects before beginning to mount components.
Apply Puget Branding to Chassis
We brand the front door of your chassis with the Puget systems logo.
Mount Fans
We replace the stock fans with upgraded models.
Mount Drives
We securely install your drives in your system.
Apply Order Number Sticker
We apply a small sticker with the order number to the back of your system.
Mount Motherboard
We install the motherboard in your system and ensure it is fastened securely and ports line up correctly.
Mount Radiator
We mount the radiator for your closed-loop cooler.
Phase 2 Build / Assembly
Review Work Order, Build Notes, and Internal Status
We review the order and notes to ensure that any special build requests are performed.
Verify Condition of Chassis and Panels
We inspect your system chassis for any structural or cosmetic defects before beginning to mount components.
Wire Front Panel Connections
We connect any switches and ports integrated into your system’s chassis to the appropriate connectors on the motherboard or add-in cards.
Wire Power Supply Connections
We run the cabling from your power supply to make all necessary power connections to the motherboard and backplane.
Connect Supplemental PCIe Power to Motherboard
We connect the supplemental PCIe power connectors to the headers on your motherboard.
Wire Data Connections
We connect the data cables for your drives securely and neatly.
Verify Complimentary Hard Drive Pre-Wire
We make sure that any requested pre-wiring for drives is in place. Additionally, for our more user-serviceable chassis, we ensure every system is wired for at least two hard disks to allow for easy addition of storage to single-drive configurations.
Install Cards
We install any video cards or other add-in controller cards in your system.
Secure Any Unsecured Cables
We use hot glue on any delicate connections to help keep them from becoming disconnected during shipping.
Mount Power Supply
We mount the power supply securely in your system’s chassis.
Install GPU Brace
We install a custom video card support brace to help protect your system during shipping.
Install Chassis Reinforcement Plate
We install a custom brace to join two internal plates within the case for added structural rigidity when your system ships. We have found that this greatly reduces damaged to the video cards and motherboards caused by potential shipping carrier mishandling.
Check for POST of fully completed system
With assembly fully completed, we make sure that the system still turns on and boots correctly.
Update System BIOS to Approved Version
We update your motherboard’s BIOS to the most recent stable release provided by the manufacturer and approved by Puget Systems.
Change Remote Management Password
We change the Remote Management Login Password to comply with California Senate Bill 327. The updated password will be provided in a binder with the system accessories.
Apply Standard BIOS Settings
We configure your system with our standard BIOS settings.
Disable Full Screen Boot Logo
We disable the manufacturer splash screen that displays during system POST.
Verify Secure Boot Setting is Correct
We ensure that the Secure Boot Setting in the BIOS is set to Windows
Verify All Devices are Detected and Connected to Appropriate Ports
Save BIOS Profile
Verify Condition of Chassis and Panels
We inspect your system chassis for any structural or cosmetic defects before beginning to mount components.
Verify all fans are spinning at desired RPM
We check that all system fans spin up and operate with the intended settings. For fans connected to a chassis controller, we check that they operate correctly on all settings of the controller.
Test Reset Button (If Applicable)
We check that your chassis’ reset button (if it has one) is connected and functional.
Verify front LED functionality
We check that any appropriate chassis indicator lights, such as power or disk activity LEDs, are connected and functioning as expected.
Phase 1 Testing
Begin memory testing
We run an initial test on your CPU and RAM to check for errors that could lead to instability or a corrupted OS install.
Complete memory testing
We review the initial CPU and RAM test results to confirm that everything is working as expected.
Install / Setup
Review order
We check for any special instructions there may be for your order to ensure that the system is configured exactly how you want it.
Install Windows 11 Pro 64-bit
Your primary drive is installed with a base level install of the operating system, which is later customized to your order.
Install / update device drivers
All the most recent drivers (downloaded from the manufacturer) are loaded for your devices.
Load Install Program
Puget Systems uses an internally developed utility for deploying updates, software packages and customized benchmark suites.
Apply Puget OS Branding
Give the system a nice Puget Systems feel. We change the background and lock screen as well as add our contact information to the computer properties which can be viewed by pressing the Windows key + pause break buttons.
Install approved Windows updates
All Windows updates and service packs are applied.
Confirm successful driver installation
We double check all installed devices to confirm that all drivers loaded correctly.
Compare System Specs to Order specs
We double check all installed devices using an inhouse utility to confirm that they match what was ordered.
Confirm Windows serial key(s)
We double check the serial key assigned to your system using an in house tool to confirm that we will not run in to issues activating the system.
Initialize and format additional disks
We initialize all additional internal drives as GPT and format them as NTFS. We then assign them a drive letter based on how they appear on the order (i.e. secondary drive = D, tertiary drive = E, etc.). If Linux is on the order, these drives will be reformatted when the final OS is installed.
Confirm latest SSD firmware
We open the manufacturers management software for your drive(s) and confirm it has the latest firmware. If needed we will flash them to the latest firmware.
Confirm correct Discrete GPU bandwidth
We double check to make sure that the systems video card(s) are running at the expected bandwidth in relation to motherboard specifications.
Test front panel USB ports
All front USB ports are tested to confirm connectivity and speed.
Test front panel audio
We confirm that the front panel audio jacks (sound and microphone) are working as expected. The rear audio ports will be inspected during the QC phase.
Phase 2 Testing
Double check system specs
Your system specs are double checked for any mistakes, using an automated utility we have built that not only checks for the right parts, but that they are configured correctly.
Stress Test
We run a combination of Prime95 and AIDA64 to stress your system far beyond typical loads.
CrystalDiskMark
We run CrystalDiskMark to benchmark the read/write speeds of all your hard drives.
LAME MP3 Encoder
LAME MP3 Encoder is used to test system performance when encoding MP3 audio files
NeatBench
NeatBench is a standalone benchmarking for Neat Video – a popular tool to reduce visible noise and grain found in footage from digital video cameras, DSLRs, TV-tuners and even digitized film or VHS.
OctaneBench
OctaneBench is a benchmarking utility based on OctaneRender (a popular GPU-based rendering engine). This benchmark evaluates the rendering performance of your GPU(s)
V-Ray
V-Ray is commercial plug-in for third-party 3D computer graphics software applications and is used for visualizations and computer graphics. This benchmark evaluates both CPU and GPU performance when using V-Ray.
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Photoshop is the most widely used professional photo editing and manipulation software currently on the market. Our benchmark tests a wide range of tasks to give an idea of how your system should perform in Photoshop.
Adobe After Effects
Adobe After Effects CC is a widely used application for motion graphics and animation. Our benchmark tests two critical areas of performance – RAM Preview (live playback) and Rendering (exporting) – with a number of different projects.
Adobe Premiere Pro
Adobe Premiere Pro CC is an industry-leading non-linear video editing application. Our benchmark tests two critical areas of performance – Live Playback and Exporting – with a number of different media codecs, resolutions, and effects.
Unigine Superposition
Unigine Superposition is used to evaluate system performance in DX11 applications at display resolutions including 1080p, 4K, and 8K.
NBody CUDA
The Nbody CUDA benchmark is used to verify the maximum theoretical compute performance of NVIDIA-based video cards
CineBench
CINEBENCH is a real-world cross platform test suite that evaluates your computer’s performance capabilities. CINEBENCH is based on MAXON’s award-winning animation software CINEMA 4D, which is used extensively by studios and production houses worldwide for 3D content creation
Upload and review benchmark results
All the benchmarks taken during the phase 2 testing process are recorded on our server, providing you with benchmark scores, and providing us with statistical information that will help us assist future customers. We also upload our temperature logs, giving you a baseline you can compare to after you receive the system.
Quality Control
Review Order Updates and Checkoff
We review the order updates as it contains a build log for actions performed by the various technicians prior to QC to check if additional testing has to be performed and verify requests are fulfilled.
Verify Expected Video Card and Disk Results
We review key benchmark results to verify that installed components are operating as expected.
Verify Condition of Chassis and Components
We physically inspect the exterior and interior of the chassis to check for cosmetic blemishes around high friction points and that components are installed and aligned properly.
Verify System Initialization Noise
When the system is powered on and components are initializing before the system POST beep, we check that the configured components do not have excessive noise.
Disable Network Stack in BIOS
We use an imaging software for installing Windows that requires settings in the BIOS to be adjusted. We turn these settings off as they are not normally used outside of our imaging software.
Verify BIOS Profile is Saved
We check that a profile is saved in the motherboard BIOS that retains the settings we adjust to be used again in case BIOS settings are lost due to an unexpected occurrence.
Record Approximate Boot Time
We record how long, in seconds, the system takes to boot into the OS and also to check that it is booting in the expected amount of time.
Verify System Properties
We check in the OS system properties to make sure that the configured OS, processor, and correct memory capacity is detected.
Verify Puget OS Branding
We check that our Puget desktop background is set.
Verify Drives are Present, Partitioned, and Labeled
We review that all configured system drives are partitioned and drive letters are assigned based on drive priority.
Verify in Device Manager Components are Detected
Verify Sound Quality Output
We check the 3.5mm audio outputs for clarity and balanced volume.
Verify Functionality of Onboard Networking Devices
We test available networking devices on the system for proper network and device detection.
Test Thunderbolt Compatible Ports
We test that the available Thunderbolt compatible ports are detecting a certified external drive in an OS environment.
Test All External USB Ports
A USB thumb drive is plugged in and out from every external USB port to verify USB detection.
Test USB2.0 on Populated USB3.0 Headers
We check that USB 3.0 front panel ports and/or USB 3.0 expansion brackets can detect USB2.0 devices in the OS.
Test All Video Outputs
We verify that all video outputs are functioning correctly even if ports will be disabled or unused due to the system configuration.
Monitor System at Idle
We verify that the system is running as expected and within tolerances by monitoring the system at idle. This is performed by using a thermal camera and a wattage meter to monitor the system as load tests on the configured hardware are ran.
Monitor System under Load
We verify that the system is running as expected and within tolerances by monitoring the system under load. This is performed by using a thermal camera and a wattage meter to monitor the system as load tests on the configured hardware are ran.
Cap Secondary or Unused Video Ports
We cap the video ports on the system that will either be used as a secondary video card or the ports will be unused based on the system configuration
Clean Up Windows Installation
We remove the programs used to install the configured OS and necessary software to test the hardware and check that remnant files and folders are deleted from those programs.
Scan Windows COA
We input the Windows COA into our installation suite to be activated when the system is powered on and connected to the internet.
Prepare and Verify Restore Media Creation
After a system inspection we create restore media for your system
Confirm Proper Windows Out of Box Experience
After creating restore media we check one last time to confirm that your system will boot as expected to the Windows Customer Experience screen.
Final Preparation
Verify Check-Off is Completed
We verify that all checkpoints have been completed throughout the production process and parts section.
Affix COA to Chassis
Your Windows COA is attached to your case.
Include HDMI Cable
We include a HDMI cable with your computer so that you are sure to have everything you need when you set it up.
Include Display Port Cable
We include a Display Port cable with your computer so that you are sure to have everything you need when you set it up.
Verify Power Cord and Essential Accessories are Included
We double check to make sure you have everything you need for system set up!
Packing / Shipping
Paperless Procedure (Optional)
Thank you for choosing paperless. We all must do our part to help the environment and limit or consumption of resources. Small steps like this can create a ripple effect for changes to come.
Include Marketing Materials
Getting stressed out? Grab your stress cube and give us a call! We included a sticker to show you are Puget Proud as well as some Business cards.
Take Pictures of the System
We take pictures of each system before we ship.
Final Chassis Cleaning
Since the computer has been handled, we ensure it is clean as a last step before boxing it up.
Read what our customers have to say about our quality control!
Legacy Testimonial: 1226
I tend to look for companies that do business the right way. Until finding Puget Systems, I hadn’t found any in the PC business. Puget’s builds priced favorably to the rest of the market, but the real value isn’t just the well-designed systems, its the level of service. I gave Jeff a detailed list of needs and he guided me toward the right components and build. From then on, I was informed at every step of the process: who was working on my PC and what they were doing. The give tons of info on the parts they use and why, a wealth of info on my system (benchmarks, thermal imaging, etc.), and the final delivered product is flawless (it was so well packed, the FedEx guy who delivered it was impressed!) They provide an old-school binder manual, recovery disks and drive, and a flawlessly built PC — tidy cable management, lots of efficient and quiet cooling, and great parts. The PC is fast, quiet (often inaudible), no bloatware, everything was installed and ready to go (including all available updates). It boots fast, it runs better than any previous PC I’ve owned, and I have no doubt it will be far more reliable also. Puget Systems does it right. I’ve paid premium prices before, but this is the first time I got equal value! My Puget PC doesn’t look flashy, but it’s a beast of a system, backed up by people who really seem to care about building a machine that does what I need. I’ve a hard time imagining buying a PC from anyone else ever again.
Legacy Testimonial: 1225
Two things stand out for me when watching Jon’s video giving an overview of Puget Systems. First, their sales staff actually will talk you down from more expensive systems. Frankly they’ve saved me over a thousand dollars. Second, his comments about transparency and relationships, by which he means trust. I bought a system from Puget nine years ago, and they supported me ever since. When I felt the need to modernize with a new system, there was only one company on my list of candidates.
Legacy Testimonial: 1224
Phil Peterson
Middle GA
This is the first computer purchased from Puget (Aug 2018). The experience was enjoyable. Jeff answered my questions when were we determining what I needed for my system. Puget kept me informed every step of the way and the computer arrived trouble free sooner than promised. I am very satisfied with the computer and will recommend to my friends that they contact Puget next time they need a computer. To date I have not had a reason to call for any problems or questions. This company is first class.
Legacy Testimonial: 1223
Trying to find a legitimate workstation that will handle Octane was a nightmare. After years on Mac, I looked at the iMac Pro and winced at the specs and the ridiculous price. No NVIDIA, over $12K for an adequate machine? After days looking, I found Puget Systems.
I am so glad I did. After making the call, Oscar was GREAT. I highly recommend Puget Systems and will never shop anywhere else. From the first call, I was hooked. The integrity, value and quality this company offers is exemplary.
Here’s a few bullet points on what makes Puget Systems easily the best place to go for custom workstations:
• They were nice. No talking over your head, no tech-nerd attitude. Just helpful and down to earth.
• They listen. They helped me transition from Mac to PC with little to no trouble and were very helpful with follow-up questions.
• They diagnose what you’ll need without trying to up-sell
• They have the best technology in stock, usually
• The wait time was minimal, two weeks from phone call to up and running in my case
• There’s a step-by-step progress report/checklist as your system is being made complete with what’s being done and who is doing it
• Most important, the system was EASY to set up
• AND it’s blazing fast
• AND the price was by far the best out there. In fact, they saved me money by helping me direct my budget toward the components that were most helpful for the applications I was using.
• They followed up to ensure everything is working properly
• Finally, the beards at PS are as impressive as the render times on my workstation
TL;DR Puget Systems should give other companies lessons in customer service, value and quality. I’m a fan and will be ordering from them again soon.
Legacy Testimonial: 1222
There are no words to express the level of comfort and satisfaction having being a customer of Puget systems. The timely process from the confirmation of the order to the building of the machine and being informed at every stage. Excellent and knowledgeable support staff who are able to tailor the system specs to my specific need. The after sales support, even after two years of purchase they want to make sure every thing is ok with you. My system runs oil-smooth and is very silent for a big machine.Thank you Puget, you have a customer for life!
Legacy Testimonial: 1221
Purchased a Serenity system here six years ago. Recently damaged one of the front USB ports by accident, and sought out replacement options for the port module. Case manufacturer support advised the specific model (Antec P183) had been discontinued, and no parts available. Searched eBay, Amazon.com, Google, no solution. Checked the Puget site, and immediately found a replacement port module available at a reasonable price. I think it’s a great testimonial of the ability of Puget Systems to provide product support after the sale!
Legacy Testimonial: 1220
I’ve been using custom built systems for sound and video editing for almost 10 years. This is my first purchase from Puget. The ordering process was simple and smooth and the sales technician was very knowledgeable. The system arrived on time and was well packaged. I’ve plugged it in and two things are apparent:
– it’s wicked fast!
– it’s insanely quiet!
Looking forward to working on this new system. Thank you Puget!
Legacy Testimonial: 1219
I’ve now bought two computers from Puget Systems and have no intention of going anywhere else. I used to build my own computers to meet my needs but have found the staff here to be so knowledgeable about each piece of equipment and what I actually need, that I trust them more than myself.
On my last purchase they talked me out of buying a more powerful PC. They assessed my needs and were able to help me identify what equipment would give me the best system to meet my particular needs, even though it meant I didn’t spend as much with them. They also build these things really well. I don’t think I’ve had a single hardware issue with the computers I’ve purchased from them. They also prepare them for me so that they are almost completely silent. I love it!
Even a couple of years after I put one of their computers into service they are ready to help and troubleshoot if problems arise.This is how I wish all companies were run. They have won my respect and have made me a very happy customer. Thank you Puget Systems!
Legacy Testimonial: 1218
Puget Systems has been an incredible experience. The best way to describe how I felt when I purchased my computer, was as if a company was formed just to build a personal computer for me. The way Puget Systems reach out to their customers on a personal level is outstanding. The step-by-step build process and updates left me not only excited, but kept me in the loop to ask any questions. I have recommended this place to friends and family and will continue to do so.
Legacy Testimonial: 1217
This has been my best computer buying experience since my first computer – a Tandy 1000. I wanted a quality product to my specs without the extra junk that the big names put in their systems. Puget delivered in spades. Everything is quality and I know that the team cared about doing their best on my computer. It’s rare to find people that will put their names and faces on their products, but Puget’s team does. Their customer service is outstanding – taking the time to explain things as if they were just offering some friendly advice to their neighbor. I will never buy another desktop from another builder. Puget has made me a customer for life.
Read more testimonials from Puget Systems clients.