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: 825
Fabulous! I have had my custom-built computer for a couple of months and have loved every minute of using it. I had been researching computers for many, many months, but just couldn’t find the one that suited me. I reviewed computer ratings, magazines, and websites, but just wasn’t satisfied. I even thought about building my own. And, then it dawned on me…a custom build. I knew it would be more expensive, but it was/is WELL worth every penny. The Puget Systems process is like none I’ve ever seen before. From the moment I went on the website, working with the support staff to select my system, placing the ordering, following the building/shipping process, receiving it and setting it up. I have yet to be disappointed with my decision. Would I do it again? Absolutely!!! Thank you Pugets Systems for making this experience a great one.
Legacy Testimonial: 824
My Puget Systems computer celebrated its first birthday this month, and I am happy to say that it runs as reliably today as it did the first time I powered it up. This is a testament to the quality of the parts, and more importantly to the care exercised by the great folks at Puget Systems who so expertly assisted me with my configuration, assembled, tested, and packaged my system.
Here’s what sold me, though: The personal, and very personable service I received from the time I created a quote, to this day. I recently installed a SSD as my OS drive. I asked a couple of questions on the Puget Systems discusssion forum and was delighted when my questions were answered by William George in a straighforward manner with none of the hype one often hears elsewhere. A few days later, when I ordered the drive, again from Puget, I called their office with a billing question. Guess who answered my call? It was William! I believe I can say with certainty that you won’t have such a thing happen elsewhere! Second case: I posted another question about partitioning a drive. I received a reply from Wilson, my sales rep, and from Jon Bach, Puget’s president. Where else in the tech world would a customer receive direct help from the company president? (Fill in the blank, here ______ )
In essence, the staff at Puget Systems truly care about their customers and go the extra mile to meet our needs. Not only do they help at the beginning of the vendor/ customer relationship, they stay by your side for the long haul!
I highly recommend Puget Systems, and I will, for sure, be purchasing my next system from them because I know I will receive a high-quality computer backed by truly excellent customer service.
Legacy Testimonial: 823
Continued amazement in what seems like an air and era of indifference to customer service… Puget Systems sets the benchmark – from personnel (plus personal) service, to product delivered.
Vividly illustrated by today’s problem-child software seemingly without a known fix: Adobe’s LightRoom 4. Slow and erratic operation. “Is it my workstation at fault… or is it the software?”
The comparative of Puget to corporate Adobe requires a slight leap of imagination, but the difference is real, vivid.
Adobe’s inevitable “silence” on software design problems – it is legendary: never admit anything. Reflective of a “twisted corporate culture” from my perspective.
Whereas, if, or when there’s a question posed to Puget – the answer is forthcoming, or evokes a response, “I don’t know, let me see if I can find an answer and a solution.”
How refreshing! Almost quaint.
Legacy Testimonial: 822
In my 67 years I’ve purchased far too many goods and services to fully recall, but the really awful experiences, and the especially good ones you never forget. I can honestly say that when I selected Puget to build my computer, a whole new catagory was created for me: Best Buying Experience Ever! It began when I placed my order with William. His excellent advice resulted in a less costly, but much better configuration for my needs. Then came the real time progress reports from all the folks that do the voodoo that you do so well. I received my handsome grey box yesterday. Wow! It has assumed its place as my second most prized possession, right behind “Big Red”, my cherished 2002 Subaru WRX. Now if I can just put 225,000 trouble free miles on “Big Grey”.. 😉 But seriously, I want to thank you for your lovely work, and for proving that pride in a job well done, still exists.
Legacy Testimonial: 821
Honestly, You guys have some of the best personal I know. I asked for a deadline to be met due to myself leaving to training for the Marine Corps and you succeeded… Just the fact that you care that much of your product as well as your customers is amazing to me. I am glad to say I came to your company for my Laptop configuration, and I will be spreading the name with the up most respect and gratitude. Thank you.
Legacy Testimonial: 820
All I can do is echo the high praises in the testimonials preceding mine that led me to buy my Puget Systems Spirit PC. End-to-end, Puget Systems is a 10. The great stories about the old days in the service station, expert staff helping with configuration like an expert friend would, the build, testing, shipping, packaging, tracking, the documentation binder, the support, and of course the best PC I ever owned. It all happens like you think it should, but doesn’t anywhere else. Some testimonials say spending the extra money was worth it, and it is, for sure, but I don’t know that I spent that much extra. The bigger vendors want around $300 for less support than Puget Systems includes in the price, so what extra money? Puget Spirit PC Design, construction, delivery and support: out of the box for less than 15 minutes, all my old peripherals worked and the PC was running, but the monitor was “greyscale.” I was a little confused, having never encountered this before, so I clicked a shortcut that was on my desktop and, blam!, I was IMing Puget, William diagnosed a loose connection I had made in my haste to get things going, which I fixed. A little embarassing, but, everything has been great since then. I’m sure the same kind of thinking that went into making that IM contact available before I was fully up and running, just in case, went into the PC design as well. I highly recommend Puget Systems PCs!
Legacy Testimonial: 818
I have had my Puget system PC for several months. It is far better than any PC I have ever had. Time will tell how long it lasts. So far, I am glad I shelled out the extra cash. Initially, I did have a problem with it. At times, it would not turn on by hitting the power button. I had to unplug the power cord , wait a minute and then plug it back in and it powered up just fine. This happened about 5 times and has not happened in the last 2 months. The delivery promises were met perfectly and the packaging was excellent. I have recommended Puget Systems to many prospective buyers and will continue to do so.
Legacy Testimonial: 817
i just bought a system, from these guys (november) and i am livid at such crap functioning and the no phone pick up when i call….all the money i spent on this thing…i feel duped! thanks for nothing fellas….
Puget Systems response: We’re sorry you were unable to reach us! At the time you posted this, phone lines were open and techs were available…is it possible you were calling a wrong phone number? In any case, it looks like you are in touch with our techs now.
Legacy Testimonial: 816
One of the best shopping experiences I have had in years. Knowledgeable sales people, excellent technical support, courteous and prompt to answer phones or emails. They configured a 2700K based system for exactly as I desired and installed Windows 7 professional with zero bloatware. Amazing and thoughtful packing and up to date information on status till delivery.
Legacy Testimonial: 815
If you are old enough, you remember pulling into a “Service Station” to refuel your vehicle. Before the wheels stopped turning your car was surrounded by people that were cleaning your windshield, checking your tires and adding air if they needed it, raising the hood and making sure that all the fluid levels were where they should be. If you looked like you needed to exit the car, someone was opening the door for you. While all this was going on, your gas was being pumped for the amount you asked for when you drove up. It was an experience consumers only hear about now. I have just experienced this “Service Station” sensation first hand, up close and personal. I surfed to the Puget System website and was impressed enough with what I saw, I put an order in for them to build a computer for me. I browsed their website, which was a breeze to navigate, picked out components I wanted and put a “wish list” together. I submitted my configuration to their pros for an overview to make sure that what I was wanting would all work together and that my expectations would be met with the system I was requesting. They knew what I was looking for because they asked me what I would be using the computer for the majority of the time. My configuration was a “Go”. I placed my order. The Service did not stop here. I was given step by step updates on the work being performed to assemble my computer. I could log into my account anytime and see what was happening with my system. As the computer came together they took pictures of it and posted them to my account. When it was finished they sent me an email telling me my computer had shipped and furnished me the tracking number so I could watch it arrive and depart at each destination. It arrived on time and in excellent condition. As I began to unpack my equipment, the professionalism of Puget Systems was made abundantly clear again. The computer was packed in a “configuration specific” box with all the right packing material. I unboxed, plugged it in and everything worked. They included a 3 ring binder called an “Information Booklet” which contains all the information and technical details of my system. They included all the little extra parts, with everything labeled and boxed together. They have furnished me with means of getting help with my system if something doesn’t work right. I wish I could call them, but everything is working. This is an outstanding company and I have enjoyed (when was the last time you heard someone say that), yes enjoyed doing business with them.
Read more testimonials from Puget Systems clients.