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: 753
Hi William, Daniel, Richard and Jeff,
I want you to tell my experience, as a retired engineer, with you during the process of ordering, building, receiving and helping me with the setup of my new computer.
I first did a research over the internet how others reviewed Puget and after that I checked several parts and how they has been reviewed by others like PC magazine.
The result was amazing who good Puget is.
I am now a Realtor for almost 24 years and I understand the process of customer service.
My first contact was with William and I felt right very comfortable with you. You was very relaxed and easy to speak with. All the questions were answered with some explanation and with patience. You have also a willing ear, which I think is very important. I remember our conversation regarding W7 64bit or 32bit. I want to go with 32bit, because the Real Estate industry told me so. You told me that W7 Professionals will let me work with a virtual XP, if needed. I am glad I took the 64bit version.
Thank you for all the help.
After I received the computer in the wonderful box, which I saved, I myself encounter some problems with the new parts that I have bought somewhere else to connect to your computer. During that period I had via costumer support conversations with Jeff, Daniel and I think also with Richard.
It amaze me that you all have the same attitude in advising, answering and listening to a person on the other side of the phone.
The way you handle this is an example for a lot of other companies.
Your way of doing business is the only way to build a successful organization.
Yes, the computer is a great tool for me and it really match with the two Samsung monitors, the two speakers Creative T20 and the wireless keyboard and mouse from Microsoft.
I Have told some of my buddies already about www.pugetsystems.com.
Legacy Testimonial: 752
Puget Systems demonstrates in practice the business model all firms of this type attempt to emulate and rarely achieve… Certainly one could find less expensive pricing or build a system yourself, but among other attributes their expertise and experience adds value to their products and to you as the end user. Upon receipt and working with my recent order, a system designed to aid photographic efforts working with large composite files in Photoshop and supporting software, I recognized the changes discussed with William in sales were greatly beneficial. Much to my surprise, William provided recommendations that in the in result reduced what I thought was required realizing a savings of twenty percent below my projected budget. The first time I opened a 1.2GB image file and had it display in three seconds I knew the advice was sound… My experience with Puget Systems was excellent and exhibited their professionalism and conscientious practices throughout in all phases from ordering, build to delivery. I have little doubt your experience will differ – these folks are first rate.
Legacy Testimonial: 751
I almost ordered a plain vanilla desktop system from a large PC company, but now I am VERY happy that I ordered from Puget Systems. I had ordered a custom-made computer previously, from another vendor, but was very unsatisfied with the result – graphics cards had to be replaced multiple times, software and hardware did not operate compatibly, etc. That company clearly did not put much effort into producing a good product and helping their customers avoid problems.
In contrast, I could not have asked for better customer support from Jeff Stubbers and the rest of the Puget team. My questions regarding parts and configuration options were answered very rapidly, and they provide all the information and advice you need to help you choose from different options. Unlike some places that refuse to acknowledge any shortcomings in any computer parts, the Puget website advised me of the pros and cons of the various graphics cards I was contemplating. One part I wanted was not currently available, but Jeff kept me updated regularly regarding its status and gave me options for replacing it if I so chose.
The flawless operation of the PC from the day I took it out of the box reflects the level of testing applied to ensure everything worked together. I am also impressed by the way all the documentation, product keys and other vital information is assembled and provided in a handy binder – no more misplaced product keys! In addition, my Puget system came *without* any of the seemingly mandatory junk software that infests products purchased from the large manufacturers.
I cannot imagine purchasing a computer from any other vendor now. I got the high-performance, cool-running and VERY quiet computer I needed, and Jeff and his associates made the process virtually painless.
Legacy Testimonial: 750
I am not a gamer, but a very small business owner who requires the near fastest pc possible for photo/retouching/graphics/video work every time I upgrade or add a computer for my work. The system I recently had Puget build for me was precisely what I wanted and is delivering just what I need.
This is exactly (except for some spelling error changes) what I wrote at resellerratings.com, and is how I perceive your comapany:
“My whole experience with Puget Systems in their advising, ordering, building, notifying, detailing, delivering, packaging, and quality of both the build itself and the components with which it was accomplished, have been the best of any computer company with which I have ever dealt.
The effort they put in, the personal responsibility for every step of the process, is outstanding. Since my computer was perfect “out-of-the-box”, I have no experience as of yet with their repair department or customer service after the sale, but, from all my encounters so far, I expect it to be very good indeed.
Over the past 26 years, I have ordered dozens of computers from a combination of Apple, Dell, HP, local and internet retailers, and several good local “white box” companies, and this is the best buying experience I have had to date. On top of all the extra time and quality they put into their build process, their prices were excellent. For instance, had I even been able to buy a replica of my new computer from Dell or HP (not even possbile because of their generally lower quality parts, less diverse component list and smaller base of build options from which to choose), it would have most likely cost at least 10-20% more money and be loaded with the usual bogus software crap, useless try-outs and other intrusive add-ons that I’d only have to work to remove. And, for a relatively low cost producer, their confidence-building client reporting techniques and actual quality output are impressive and unmatched by any other company I’ve dealt with in the past.
As you might already have assumed from the above, I give Puget Systems the highest ratings I can for an internet (or, for that matter, brick & mortar) custom computer builder and highly recommend them to anyone else looking for a custom PC.”
Legacy Testimonial: 749
My first custom computer, and a pleasure all the way. Beautifully built, exactly as ordered; and the follow-up support I needed was pleasant and totally helpful. I am a very happy customer.
Legacy Testimonial: 748
The team at Puget did a very good job. Wilson Chau knew his stuff. He was good at communicating with me and answering my many emails and questions. He had explinations for everything that I asked, and he was responsive to my concerns.
The ordering of parts and assembly were timely, considering that I made changes to my order two times.
I was impressed by the work the Puget put into my computer with all of the tests that they did.
Good work to every one who worked on my computer.
Five stars to Wilson for keeping up with my emails.
Legacy Testimonial: 747
Simply one of the best consumer experiences I have ever had. Jeff was quick and helpful with all my questions. I was informed on the entire process. The box has only been up for a few hours, but everything seems great. Thank you Puget!
Legacy Testimonial: 746
A great computer buying experience and a computer that exceeded my expectations. This is my third custom build (first with Puget) and there is no comparison between the prior machines and level of service. Puget Systems is the only way to buy a new machine.
William helped me from day one back in June when I started looking. The rather long e-mail thread has William clearly steering me away from potential performance issues and saving me money at the same time. Thanks William and Puget systems.
At the same time I bought my machine with Puget I had ordered a laptop for a family member through one of the large manufacturers, due to extreme budgetary constraints. My Puget machine was fully updated without all the junkware. I spent about 30 minutes registering Windows and office and setting up my user preferences and antivirus software. The laptop, which had the same exact OS and user software took me 8 hours to get ready for use because nothing was updated. Also there is a problem with the DVD drive and it will likely have to go back. Looking back it is not worth the money that was saved on Brand X.
Legacy Testimonial: 745
Puget Systems stepped up to the plate where others failed, including myself! I wanted a high-end HTPC/video & photo editing machine capable of cutting-edge performance and stable use. I chose to have Puget build a Win7(64), Core i7 870, Asus p55 MB, Intel SSD & WD drives, Radeon 5770, Xonar HDAV sound card, Hauppage TV card, Blue-Ray burner, quiet system, all squeezed into a Silverstone HTPC case. This machine had to be mated to a Denon AVR receiver for sound, HMDI video, and media server. This system also needed connection to a 2nd high-end monitor via DisplayPort for video/photo editing. Well, I soon discovered it was a bit beyond me, and other custom computer builders had either limited configurations available, or a lack of understanding regarding my specific requirements, or indeed promised too much(red flag!), Puget came through with high marks on all accounts. After working with a very responsive William George, we contrived a fantastic build that met those needs. At the conclusion of the build process, when the pricing for my system was calculated, I asked appropriately, “Is this the best price you can give me for this computer?” I was then offered a deal that I thought was appropriate considering the expenses involved. Thanks Puget! Along with William, it seems that most of the Puget staff had some involvement in the build as noted by the “Status Updates”, which were informative and exciting to witness from afar. When the Benchmarks started to appear in my account file, I knew I had made a good choice in Puget Systems. Then, there was an issue with the case which was discovered in the “Quality Control” phase. The unique combination of the Silverstone case, Asus MB, and Radeon 5770 would not allow the HMDI and DisplayPort out cables to fully seat due to an interfering bracket. William presented some possible solutions, and I chose the more difficult solution of having the case modified. This was performed by the staff in a smart way without additional charges. The computer was then run through the entire “Benchmark” and “Quality Control” process one more time to confirm the status of the machine. The system was double boxed and shipped across the country(I’m east coast). It arrived well and booted in about a minute on the first try. After I “popped the top” to have a look inside, I was reminded of my first real computer, an IBM PC-XT: built like a jet airplane, solid construction, neat wiring, good components, and looks good too. I am still configuring this new system, but it has “married” well to the Denon AVR and is in the process of becoming a fantastic addition to my family’s multi-media experience. In conclusion, I would offer that Puget Custom Computers delivers a fine product and I would recommend them to build your custom computer.
Legacy Testimonial: 744
Purchased a computer from Puget and I have to say great customer service! This was my first computer from them and I have to say I was extremely happy. They responded to all my emails usually with in an hour or so of sending them(Jeff Stubbers really helped me out)! Got the computer about a week ago and can’t be more excited. It was packaged very well, no shipping damage (which is a big plus, I live overseas). Looking inside of the case you can tell the people at Puget Systems take their time in what they do. Also turned on first time I tried, with no problems. Thanks Puget!
Read more testimonials from Puget Systems clients.