How do I tell if my motherboard contains lead? Are there motherboards that don't contain lead?

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wolverinetree

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Hello, everyone.

I have a Gigabyte motherboard. The model is "Z97-HD3." How can I tell if it contains lead?

What are some motherboards that do not contain lead?
 
Solution
13thmonkey
Metals don't release fumes and particles don't just jump off the bulk material. If you were handing and rubbing it then there may be an issue. But this is your choice, lead free might just mean very low levels of lead compared to older lead solders. It'll only be in the solder.
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Eximo

Eximo

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It likely doesn't being that is a fairly new system.

Usually there will be an ROHS sticker on it somewhere certifying that they used lead free solder. Not that it still isn't quite toxic from other chemicals.

Metallic lead isn't all that dangerous either.

 
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Eximo

Eximo

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Not seeing anything in particular that says it contains lead.

It does meet China RoHS which proscribes lead. Though I see no reference to EU or US RoHS compliance.

As 13thMonkey states, unless in particulate form where it can be breathed in or otherwise ingested, most metallic toxins are quite safe in a finished product.
 
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wolverinetree

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Thanks for your answers. Unfortunately, the packaging has inscribed on it the following: "WARNING: This product contains chemicals, including lead, known to the State of California to cause cancer, and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. Perchlorate material special-handling may apply."

How can these motherboards be RoHS compliant if they still contain chemicals like lead?
 
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Eximo

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Well it might not be. They do manufacturer multiple versions of that product and sell it with different packaging to different countries. I found one China RoHS reference in a very poorly written/translated manual for the motherboard, but not really anything else.

I had thought that most manufacturers had switched to automated lead free wave soldering some time ago. Though Gigabyte do use solder-paste/oven and wave soldering and automated part placers. They do still seem to use manual soldering for the final assembly and installation of some components. Found a fairly recent factory tour video that shows much of their process:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Va3Bfjn4inA

Though I would swear from the sheen on the solder the workers are holding that that is lead free solder...
 
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Eximo

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Another factor may be total allowable lead content. California has very strict regulations that state that any percentage is too much and must be labeled accordingly. Whereas to be RoHS compliant they only need to meet a minimum standard (that I can't for the life of me find easily, probably have to look up the actual laws)
 
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13thmonkey

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why are you concerned? what's the problem here? is it going into special usage? if you are that bothered then wear gloves whilst assembling? It may also be the equivalent of 'may contain nuts' where it is easier to say it might, than to be sure it doesn't.
 
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wolverinetree

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Aren't the fumes from lead considered dangerous? In a computer, with fans constantly blowing on the motherboard, sending lead particles out into the air, should I be concerned with consuming lead?

 
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13thmonkey

13thmonkey

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Metals don't release fumes and particles don't just jump off the bulk material. If you were handing and rubbing it then there may be an issue. But this is your choice, lead free might just mean very low levels of lead compared to older lead solders. It'll only be in the solder.
 
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