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General discussion

Motherboard Problems

by russellg Jul 15, 2004 11:51PM PDT

I've been upgrading my computer with a new motherboard, CPU, RAM, and video card. So pretty much almost a new PC. I've have some problems getting the new motherboard setup. I've removed the old motherboard and installed the new motherbaord with the CPU and RAM. The first problem I have is that when I installed the motherboard with the standoffs, the standoffs fit in fine, but the motherboard also has one screw slot in the middle of the board, that doesn't lineup with the screw hole in my case. Do I need a new case? I would rather not get a new case, so I don't have to move the existing drives. Next I connected the ATX power, CPU Power, hard drive ribbon cables, front panel power. Then I tryed to start the computer, but nothing happens. No noise, no power, nothing. Would could it be? This is driving me crazy. If anyone can help me I would be very thankful.

Thanks,
Russ

Discussion is locked

15 Posts
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Standoffs. You don't install them all.
by r. proffitt Forum moderator Jul 16, 2004 12:09AM PDT

What they won't tell you is to not put a standoff where there is no matching motherboard mounting point.

When you bolted in the motherboard with extra standoffs, three things can happen.

1. It doesn't power up.
2. The motherboard is damaged by the short.
3. It works.

As it stands, you move back to non-conductive cardboard with just motherboard, CPU/Heatsink/Fan, Speaker and the power supply.

By tapping the power on jumper, if these parts are still good, the power supply will start and the speaker will beep in protest of the missing parts.

If not, you are looking at bad parts or a jumper in the wrong place.

Bob

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Re: Standoffs. You don't install them all.
by russellg Jul 16, 2004 12:26AM PDT

I only put standoffs where there were standoff mounts on my case. All of the holes on the motherboard lined up with the mounts on the case, with the expection of the whole in the middle of the motherboard, which is for a simple screw, not a standoff. So there were no extra standoffs installed, they all had mounting points. Anymore advice? I really want to figure this. Thanks for the info Bob, anymore ideas?

Russ

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Standoffs. Not all will have matching points on the board.
by r. proffitt Forum moderator Jul 16, 2004 12:33AM PDT

" but the motherboard also has one screw slot in the middle of the board, that doesn't lineup with the screw hole in my case. Do I need a new case?"

The answer is no. There can be holes in the motherboard that exist for other reasons. Not all must be used.

You still need to go back to cardboard and 4 parts to see if you have good parts to start with. And if the jumpers are proper.

I confused your post with the similar one at http://reviews.cnet.com/5208-7591-0.html?forumID=26&threadID=29353&messageID=333626

Bob

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Re: Motherboard Problems
by Willy Jul 16, 2004 12:31AM PDT

Quick standoff answer...as Robert mentioned not all are needed. However, you should check the case plate to see if the standoff(s) can be moved as some provide multiple points to be at. If none, and you have access to a plastic standoff, cut the top portion that locks/snaps when in mtrbd., it can be used to keep mtrbd. from bending, but check to see mtrbd. area that no electrical points will be smashed, -OR- cut bottom portion and allow that against the plate. The area to be cut usually has a "flat/shoulder", trim to that point. Makes sense???

As for no power, recheck all your work, especially the frt. panel power-ON connection that it goes to the proper 2-pins, labeling can be confusing. Read the manual/guide to determine those connections. PLus, all cards, etc. are fully seated, pin-1 to pin-1 Shocked ordination.

good luck -----Willy Happy

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Re: Motherboard Problems
by russellg Jul 16, 2004 2:58AM PDT

Ok, I think I found the problem. I thought I had the front panel power plugged in but it wasn't right. I read the motherboard manual and located the front panel power connections but the plug is different from my old motherboard. My old motherboard had a 16 port plug for the front power. The new one is a 8 port with one of the ports not being used. Any information on this problem? Thanks Guys.

Russ

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Yes. You have to rewire motherboard connections.
by r. proffitt Forum moderator Jul 16, 2004 3:01AM PDT

There is no standard in this area despite the need for it.

In short, you connect power on to the power on switch,
The Reset to the reset button, and so on.

All part of the build it yourself process.

Bob

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Re: Motherboard Problems
by Willy Jul 16, 2004 5:19AM PDT

The plug-ins do vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. So, that means you have rewire the connections. While you mention 8 vs 16 port(port is something else to me) I assume you mean connection pins. Anyways, with some deft skill, most wiring can be unconnected at the plug to anotherr plug or setup, just be sure what's what. To simply power-ON just short the frt. panel power pins(at mtrbd.) with a screwdriver(metalitic object) for a moment, it should try to start. OK?

good luck -----Willy Happy

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Re: Motherboard Problems
by russellg Jul 17, 2004 5:44AM PDT

Thanks guys for your help. Anybody know of a guide online about rewiring the cable? Am an mechincal engineer so I have some basic electrical skills, but just looking for a guide or some tips. Thanks again.

Russ

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Re: Motherboard Problems
by rogleale Jul 17, 2004 10:51PM PDT

Russellg,
You don't say which make of mobo is concerned, but for this kind of problem I would advise a visit to www.ocworkbench.com. You will find forums there for all manufacturers, and if ever there is a problem with a board it will have been reported there.
For a clearer wiring diagram maybe a visit to the makers web site could provide one.

Roger

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Re: Motherboard Problems
by Willy Jul 18, 2004 1:34PM PDT

Most connectors where the wiring goes to have "locking tabs" located within the connector. Depress that tab and the crimped wire can be removed, thus relocated as needed. If you have one of those large one-connector types as most others have individual connectors, then get your hands on an old system case locate/rewire with the old connectors found dangling as the case maybe. A local computer shop may part with a beat-up case or simply buy new case and take it from there vs your old case. Your mtrbd. support website should have a d/l'able manaul with explains where the connections go. If I didn't mention it before note any wiring as to not confuse later when loose, but some connectors are themlselves labeled or you can place a marking for them. Happy

good luck -----Willy

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Re: Motherboard Problems
by Marty47 Jul 18, 2004 12:08AM PDT

You need to install the conections to the case. The colored wires you removed from your old motherboard.
The most important is the power switch connector. This is the power button on the front of the case that gives the connection to start the power supply. Also speaker reset and led connections.

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Re: Motherboard Problems
by Marty47 Jul 18, 2004 12:17AM PDT

sorry im a little late with that last one. Your manual should have all the wiring infro. you need. If not the motherboard install disk should have a manual.
You'll have to borrow someone's computer and print out the wiring page.

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Motherboard wiring help
by ncyclist Dec 28, 2004 12:54AM PST

Hi,

I was wondering if there is some kind of wiring diagram available for the LED, HDD, PWR, etc. wires which need to be connected to the motherboard in order to operate correctly. I am very confused by these connections as to orientation, left/right placement, blah, blah. The wires are color-coded so I know it matters where they go.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Asus A8V Deluxe Via Socket 939 ATX motherboard

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oop, I got it :D
by ncyclist Dec 28, 2004 4:31AM PST

I decided to try hooking them up and I got it correct the first try! whoopie Now I'm back to where I was this morning -- good P.O.S.T. beep but the video fails to 'kick in' so I'm screwed.

She is humming along fine though except for no display! Oh well.

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my own recent experience
by frankzxcv Jul 18, 2004 1:42AM PDT

I just bought and installed a new abit mobo and I was a little surprised to discover that it had TWO power connections, i.e., from the power supply -- the usual ATX and AND a little 4 pin jobber-do that was new to me. fortunately my PS is recent enough that it had this connector on it, but none of my older PS's have it. you didn't mention that you got a new PS, does the one you have have enough juice to power the new board? --fj

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