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: 775
This brief testimonial is being written about the ordering and assembly support phase only. My computer is currently in shipment and I look forward to its arrival and setup.
But I want to take a moment to say that I am very glad I stumbled upon Puget computers while reading a forum at Dell of all places.
When I first encountered the web site I was very impressed with the clarity and organization. As a programmer I could tell I was dealing with people who were used to dealing with customers with precise requests.
The entire process of designing my system on line was very slick and satisfying.
Any questions that came up were promptly responded to. I felt that I had personal care through the entire process.
Finally once my order was designed to my specifications the computer went into production.
It was great to read about all the tests it was being put through. There is no question that I had tremendous confidence in what they were doing.
So now I await the arrival of my new computer. I will write more later.
Legacy Testimonial: 774
After purchasing a system from Puget, I wanted some time to pass before writing a review or testimonial. With almost a year since I’ve had my system, I’m very happy with Puget’s business and would easily buy from them again.
When getting a new computer, I originally planned to purchase from Newegg and build my own, but I opted not to due to past headaches, namely broken/non-working parts. Puget takes care of that. Not only do they check the entire system, they check each component individually. They stress test and monitor system checks. As an avid FPS gamer, I’m going to push my system to the limits, and it’s nice to know that my system has already been tested in this condition.
PROS:
From near-perfect quality assurance to one of the best customer service experiences I’ve ever had, Puget takes care of it’s customers.
CONS:
Price. You can overpay from Dell/Alienware and for lesser quality parts. You can also go cheaper through other 3rd-party builders, but you pay for quality with Puget, quality that’s just in another league, in my opinon.
Overall, while it’s pricier than other 3rd parties or building your own, that extra money spent is well worth it. In nearly a year, I haven’t had a single problem with my computer, and I wouldn’t expect any less given how much they make sure it’s in proper working order. Once the computer’s in your hands, they continue with top-notch service. I’ve asked a few questions, and they’ve responded incredibly quickly. Customer support is very personable and friendly. They were incredibly helpful, willing to do research to provide an informed answer. I have no plans of buying computers from anyone else but Puget.
Legacy Testimonial: 773
I now own two Puget System PC’s, and I could not be more pleased with either. I have a custom built desktop that I used for the last year in Grad School. It crunched massive amounts of data and streamed HD video online, all at the same time. It is by far the best PC I’ve ever owned. The build quality is incredible; one year in and everything works as flawlessly as the day I bought it. I’ve been recommending Puget Systems to anyone who wants a custom built machine.
I recently purchased an Echo Home Theater PC. I’ve had it for a month, and it has been an excellent purchase. It’s quieter than my xbox, and produces a crystal clear picture on my HDTV. I stream HD video from my Puget tower PC to my HTPC with no problems at all. If you’re in the market for a HTPC, look no further. The Echo is competitively priced with large company HTPC’s, and you can count on the build quality and customer service of Puget Systems.
Finally, I would just like to echo what everyone else has said about the customer service at Puget Systems: there is none better anywhere. Period. I worked with the same employee on both my purchases. We each have the other’s phone number, and called and texted throughout the purchase process. He always made sure that I payed the lowest price possible, while still receiving a PC that could do what I wanted. Their Quality Control process is the best, bar none. It makes you feel good to know that there is still a company out there that really wants to do right by the customer.
I will DEFINITELY be buying from Puget Systems again.
Legacy Testimonial: 772
I first contacted Puget in December for comments on a configuration I had created on the web site, and saying I was planning to purchase in 2 or 3 months. William George promptly replied with one specific piece of advice on my configuration, but saying we should review this closer to the purchase time because “there are some things coming down the line that might affect your decision.”
Sure enough, when I was ready to go in March there was a new motherboard that had USB3 & SATA6, for one thing, and at the last minute a video card that could use the Mercury Engine with the CS5 I was planning to get.
I do my own research, I’m technologically very experienced, and I could put together my own computer, but it would take a lot more time, and I would be alone with my own trial-&-error. The Mercury Engine thing with CS5 was so new that it wasn’t showing up in my research. I would have missed that.
One thing that impressed me about Puget when I was checking them out is that they said they have weekly meetings to share experience & info. In essence, that was what I was paying for when I bought my system from them, that and their straightforward lack of BS.
I’ve been happily editing HD video & high resolution photos, I’ve authored & burned my first BluRay disk. It is satisfying to be able to get my work done on a stable system that requires a minimum of troubleshooting. I can focus on the creativity rather than the troubleshooting.
Legacy Testimonial: 771
I needed to upgrade my current computer system, to run Adobe CS4/CS5 (64-bit) and was apprehensive about who would build it. I came across Puget Systems and configured several systems, without deciding. William emailed me and asked me for specifics and the end result was the system I just recieved. I watched the building/testing process and was amazed. I received my Genesis 1 day early, and when i acutally got to unpack and turn it on, the system was amazing. Exactly what William had suggested. Blazing and doing what I needed the computer to do. I discussed the system built by Puget with the IT guy at work, and he stated that he had heard only positive comments about Puget. If the need arises for another system, i will definitely choose Puget to build it.
Legacy Testimonial: 769
This is the second system I’ve gotten from Puget. The first system is still running just fine but this second system is even better. I like a really quiet machine and this one is amazingly quiet. I would again recommend Puget to anyone interested in a real machine. My only advice: read the notebook before you start the machine, it will save you the embarrassment of having to remove the instafoam packaging after you get. Once again Jeff gave me great advice, in a couple of cases lowering the price of the system.
So thanks again Puget for producing a high quality product with personal service.
Legacy Testimonial: 767
We placed an order for a custom-configured PC as part of a larger instrument with Puget Systems. The consulting and feedback goes beyond professionalism. Concerns and questions were always addressed promptly in a detailed manner. The consulting and the delivered end-product exceeded my expectations to the point where I could state with absolute certainty that Puget Systems will get the job done independently of how complicated and high the stakes might be. The support after delivery of the product is excellent. Overall, the vendor exceeded by far my expectations and I would not hesitate the slightest to suggest Puget Systems to any of my colleagues and friends.
Legacy Testimonial: 766
Puget Systems exceeded my expectations. Their excellent web site explaining the various custom configurations options helped me select the initial components and features. Then Customer Service advised me and even suggested lower cost solutions for my needs. My e-mailed questions were always answered promptly and fully. The in-process status and photos were great. The packaging was very impressive, and the machine arrived in perfect condition. Best of all, it’s wicked fast and VERY quiet. Thank you all for a great product!
Legacy Testimonial: 765
I can say with absolute certainty that Puget has the best business model in the computer industry. I have not seen any other system builder on the internet that has the approach or service to building a system like Puget. The people at this company stand behind everything they sell. They spend time testing every component in a system, and track failure rates. If they component doesn’t pass their extremely high standards, they don’t use the part in their system. Plus, they have informative articles on their website, explaining why they use what they use, or why the changed to a different part for their systems. The website is the easiest to use also. Nothing flashy, just simple and clean. Very friendly people, who know what they are talking about. They help you build the system you need, and not try to upsell you on a lot of unnecessary items. The process of buying from them was so easy, and William was very helpful on the phone. I have built computers for years, and I can tell you I couldn’t build one as near as well as they did. It works so fast and so smooth…no crashes. It is the most stable computer I have ever owned. I am telling anyone and everyone I know to get their next computer from these guys! Why settle for substandard, cheap parts and builds from mass producers like HP or Dell? Or lousy support after the sale? Go with Puget, it will be your most sound computer investment ever!
Legacy Testimonial: 764
Puget is amazing! First you submit a quote to their great staff. Jeff gave me some wonderful recommendations and advice to make sure I got the most powerful rig for my money. I wanted a gaming rig and he actually told me my original set up was overkill. He actually saved me money and made sure I got top of the line quality! I was blown away by this especially after dealing with Dell in the past.
The whole building process was a joy as Puget keeps you in the loop at all times through the process. I loved the photos and constant updates telling me who was working on my computer.
Then when I received my computer I did have a power outage and my computer would no longer boot. After a lengthy email to tech support describing everything I had tried I received an instant response from Christopher with step by step instruction on how to repair my computer and it worked like a charm on the first try!
This company knows their stuff better than anyone else. I’ll never buy another computer from anyone else. Customer for life.
Read more testimonials from Puget Systems clients.