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: 160
If i could rate this company higher then a 10 i would. I purchased a high end computer ( P4 2.8, 2 Gb Ram, Geforce 5900 Ultra FX, Soundblaster Audigy, Asus P4C800 mobo, with the Koolance liquid cooled case ). I intend to use this computer almost solely for gaming, and did not leave anything out. I have only had it for about a week, but have been floored by its performance so far. I am yet to find a flaw, the computer is virtually silent, and extremely powerful, exactly what i was looking for.
The customer service and support that this company provides is extremely unique. I have dealt with Gateway, and Dell, and have felt like another number in their large database. However from the first response from Wilson Chau, which took less then 3 hours if i recall correctly, up until the time that the computer was complete i felt like they were working 100% to provide the best, and complete service around.
When I first received the computer, it would turn on, but would not completely boot up. After contacting Jon, via the LiveHelp feature, I tried a few things to no avail and we agreed to meet in Mt. Vernon. This was not a big deal for me, I live in Oak Harbor ( about 45 minutes away ) however it is approx 2 hours from seattle, and it was already 6:30 pm, on Friday night. Despite this, Jon met me in Mt. Vernon, took the computer, and fixed it over night. ( Turned out the Nvidia 5900 Ultra, a $650 vid card, had gone bad, and Jon contacted a dealer in Mt. Vernon, and purchased another one ) This sealed this company as a top-notch stand up custom computer company, that is willing to go the distance to ensure customer satisfaction is at its highest when dealing with them.
Before i settled on Puget Computers, i did do some price comparing on my own, and found the price range for the same computer that i purchased through Puget Computers is between $700-1900 more depending on the company that i would have gone through (Alienware, ThunderboxPc, Gateway & Dell ).
I have already recommended many friends that are in the market for a computer to Puget Computers, and would make the same recommendation to anyone else out there in the market for a new computer.
Legacy Testimonial: 159
Fantastic support and service.
Legacy Testimonial: 153
I purchased a mid-high end computer from Puget Computers. It was an Athlon 3000+ XP, 1 Gig Ram, 120GB+8MB HD, DVD-ROM, and liquid cooling case system. The system was to be used at home for high end gaming and audio production. I already had a video card and sound recording system from a previous computer.
My first indication of the excellent customer service this company has when in my initial conversations with Wilson Chau of Puget Computers. I explained my particular needs and he helped me tweak the initial specifications I selected from the easy-to-use web interface. He gave quick, very personalized responses and thoughtful comments on the different components. Eventually we came up with the “killer” configuration and I placed my order.
Puget had prided itself on very quick assembly and delivery, and when the shipping was a couple of days beyond their estimate, my anxiety prompted me to send an inquisitive email as to the status. Immediately, I was given an apology, and told that I would be given a free upgrade to a 200GB HD (at least $100 value!). I was very impressed.
When the system arrived, it performed very well, but had a couple of minor problems. The heat sensor under the CPU had broken in shipping, so I did not have a front panel temperature readout. More importantly, the system seemed noisier than I had expected. I had explained that I needed a very quiet system to do audio recording, and had paid a premium for the quietest components, including liquid cooling. Also, the system created a strange kind of electrical or magnetic interference, which caused my electric guitar to make a loud feedback tone unless I would move 15 feet away. I explained these issues to Mr. Chau and was pleased to find that the post-purchase support was just as exemplary. After some e-mail conversation, in which Mr. Chau showed enormous patience and understanding, it was agreed that I would return the system for their inspection. At this point, they offered to move all the components in the system, including my personal sound and video cards, to a new, higher quality liquid cooled case. The case they ended up swapping to was their top of the line case. I expected to find that this would solve the physical noise issue, but when the system returned I was overjoyed to find that it had solved the interference issue as well. Also, the new case had an even better front panel temperature display, which worked perfectly. The system is a joy to use in every respect, and the price was more than competitive, it was a bargain.
This is the sixth computer I have owned, and I have never encountered such excellent support, and the strongest desire to please the customer. I would recommend Puget to any computer buyer.
Legacy Testimonial: 144
10++ — that’s how happy we are. Wilson is the best there is re computer knowledge, patience (with us undecideds), and follow-up/through. The computer he helped us put together in everything we wanted and more; a gaming computer that will keep up. Highly, highly recommend this outstanding company. It doesn’t get any better! Thank you, thank you Wilson!
Legacy Testimonial: 143
If you are reading this you no doubt have already seen the many glowing reports PCC has gotten. I dont have much too say that you havent read already. The customer service could not be any better. I emailed John on a Sunday night with a question and he responded within an hour. They were extremely helpful both before, during, and after the purchase and I have no doubt that that will continue.
All this and not a mention of the system yet. The system they built was exactly what I wanted and it has performed flawlessly. I tax my system pretty good and it has handled everything with ease so far.
Thanks again for the great work
Legacy Testimonial: 142
I am extremely satisfied over my purchase of a computer with Puget Custom Computers. I am convinced I received the most benefit for the price. You do not pay for “extras” you never use or never wanted. With Puget, you can specify everything you want at some of the lowest costs out there. The support is what makes this a truly exceptional company. Try out the live help, it is unparalleled! This is the right choice for any type of computer user.
Legacy Testimonial: 141
I cant say enough about Puget custom computers. Working with Wilson was not only a pleasure but a learning experience. It took me about 5 weeks to get every thing right and Wilson was right there with me all the time giving me ideas and suggestions for an excellent custome computer. Wilson was like haveing my own personal tech rep. My last computer was purchased by me from Dell Computers and based on my working experience with Puget I will get my next computer from Puget. I have recommended Puget to my friends and family……And I would definatly recommend them to you.
Legacy Testimonial: 139
I just purchased a great gaming system form Puget. I was able to customize it just the way I wanted it and it was a great price. The customer service is top notch. They had great advice and rapid responses to my emails. Thanks Puget, you made this an easy process.
Legacy Testimonial: 138
In the space of 5 months, I configured about 5 system on Puget’s website, and each time Jon or Wilson answered my questions, never rushing me. At the end of my mulling process, I ordered the system and it arrived better packaged than any computer I had ever bought over the internet. I am extremely pleased with it. Actually, the computer was for my wife. She is extremely pleased with it! Thanks guys! I love making that woman happy!
Legacy Testimonial: 137
If you’re one of those people that is afraid of buying a computer from anyone but a name brand manufacturer, then FEAR NO MORE!!! Puget Custom Computers is a first rate stand up company. The guys at Puget ( Jon Bach & Wilson Chau ) helped me put a system together that matched my needs perfectly. In fact they made suggestions that actually ended up lowering my total cost. When’s the last time one of the big boys asked you to spend less money on their system? As for the system itself, top notch craftsmanship. looks great, top of the line components and works great. And if your concerned about service after the sale, relax!!!! After I received my computer I was having trouble figuring out some connections for an on board tv tuner when Wilson Chau actually called me at my home on a sunday night and spent nearly half an hour with me going over everything until he discovered what I had neglected to hook up. How’s that for service after the sale!!! From here on out I will do business ONLY with Puget Custom Computers. These guys know what they are doing.
Roland Pfingsten
Read more testimonials from Puget Systems clients.