If you’re like most computer users, you probably take your hardware for granted. You plug it in, turn it on, and go about your business. But what if something went wrong? What if you needed to fix or upgrade your hardware but didn’t have the original box or manual? Fortunately, there are a few ways to get around this problem. One is to power up your computer without the original box or manual. This can be done by connecting the computer to an external power source or by using a power adapter that can be plugged into the wall. Another option is to use a motherboard replacement kit. These kits come with all of the necessary parts and instructions to replace your motherboard without having to open up your computer. So whether you need to fix or upgrade your hardware, there are several options available to you. Just be sure to have the right tools and information at hand so that you can get the job done quickly and easily. ..
Sometimes you need to work on hardware components, like a motherboard, outside of the computer case, but is it safe to do so with the hardware in question powered up? Today’s SuperUser Q&A posts looks at precautions one should take with an endeavor like this.
Today’s Question & Answer session comes to us courtesy of SuperUser—a subdivision of Stack Exchange, a community-driven grouping of Q&A web sites.
Photo courtesy of machu (Flickr).
The Question
SuperUser reader misha256 wants to know if it is safe to power up a motherboard outside of its case:
Is it safe to power up a motherboard outside of its case? If so, what precautions should misha256 take?
Is it safe to power up the motherboard outside of its case? My understanding is that the case provides grounding for the motherboard. Could the lack of grounding be an issue?
The Answer
SuperUser contributors mvp and Ricky have the answer for us. First up, mvp:
Followed by the answer from Ricky:
You can check out the lively discussion thread for even more feedback to today’s question via the link below!
Also, the human body contains a static charge, so ground the static by touching a grounded appliance or wiring a ground circuit. Static charge in the human body might damage the sensitive electronic components on the motherboard.
Have something to add to the explanation? Sound off in the comments. Want to read more answers from other tech-savvy Stack Exchange users? Check out the full discussion thread here.
