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remote power switch

I have an old computer without a chassis which I want to do some testing on. The problem is that the ATX power supply I'm using doesn't have an on/off switch so I have no way of turning it on. My question is: Will it help to short the remote power switch connector on the motherboard with a jumper, or is that a bad idea?

SysExpert

I think it may.

I would test this, since it may only require a momentary contact to turn off the Power supply, and not a jumper.

It is desgined for hooking up a switch I think.

I hope this helps !

red_2

ASKER

Yes, that's what I was thinking too. The main point of my question was to hear if it might harm the motherboard if I did it. I don't know much about electronics, so I don't really know what could happen.

SysExpert

I don't think that you will harm the motherboard, but I would check the motherboard manual just in case.

I hope this helps !

red_2

ASKER

The motherboard manual doesn't say anything about that. Guess I'll just have to try.

red_2

ASKER

Well, now I've tried it, and it didn't work. Nothing happened when I plugged in the power cord. Any further help on how to be able to turn on this computer is appreciated. The relevant pin assignments can be seen here: http://www.idi.ntnu.no/~runeberg/pins.jpg

Perhaps it would help to apply a current to pin 18? Any suggestions?

sorgie

unplug the PS. Look for a green and a black wire in the MB connector and jump them with a wire or paper clip. Plug in the power supply and see if it runs. You have to have it connected to at least one drive.

red_2

ASKER

ASKER CERTIFIED SOLUTION

Wakeup

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red_2

ASKER

The screwdriver did the trick. Thanks.

Btw, do you now what kind of voltage goes through the remote power switch? In other words: Can I get electrical shocks from it?

Wakeup

red 2,

You should not get a shock through the screwdriver to motherboard...
you are just shorting a jumper...closing a circuit....I do not know what kind of voltage is passing thru. I just know i have been doing this to test moboards w/out having to plug in all the crap. As well as test power supplies...worked fine for me for years now...