Custom PC builder configurator, how does the compat checking actually work?

The configurator is the moat. Done right it converts at 4-6x category average. Done wrong it just sells you the parts list someone could’ve built on PCPartPicker.

Architecture on Magento:

• Component categories (case, CPU, motherboard, GPU, RAM, storage, PSU, cooling, fans, peripherals), each is a Magento category with configurable products inside.
• Compat attributes per SKU: CPU socket (LGA1700, AM5), chipset support (Z790, X670E), RAM type (DDR5 EXPO / XMP profile), GPU length (mm), CPU cooler height (mm), PSU wattage, PCIe gen, case form factor (ATX, mATX, ITX), case GPU clearance (mm), case CPU cooler clearance (mm), ARGB header (5V 3-pin) vs RGB header (12V 4-pin).
• Rules engine, cross-component validation. Socket must match motherboard. RAM EXPO profile must be on motherboard QVL. GPU length must fit case GPU clearance. CPU cooler height must fit case CPU clearance. PSU wattage must exceed components total × 1.2 (20% headroom).
• Live updates, Alpine.js state on Hyvä. Pick a case → incompatible CPU coolers grey out. Pick a CPU → incompatible motherboards grey out. Pick a GPU → wattage calc updates → too-small PSUs grey out.
• Output, assembled-PC render (via case-photo + GPU + cooler overlay), total wattage, est. 3DMark Time Spy + Cinebench score, total price.

Build time: ~80-120 hours for the configurator alone. PCPartPicker-style compat rules are public knowledge; the moat is the integration with your inventory + checkout + brand.