Spark Near Power on Button Ruins computer

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decko890

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Jan 30, 2016
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On year old computer, while going for the power button, Spark was Discharge into chassis and then not even the BIOS would boot up.
It was the blank screen with the white "_" blinking,
I want to know how I can prevent this. I did put that computer together.

I do not know if I overlooked something. I do not want this to happen again on another build.
Appreciate Input.
 
Solution
clutchc

I realize that the case was closed. But the contacts on the power button are only a couple mm away. And the contacts in the USB ports are closer than that. And I'm only saying that from your description...
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clutchc

clutchc

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It sounds like you are describing ESD. Static discharge from your finger to the grounded case near the wires at the power button. Some systems are more prone to that than others. I have one that does it even when I only walk a few feet across the carpet. I always have to remember to touch the metal case first.
 
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decko890

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The Tower was not opened up. It was closed. There were no wires dangling. I want to make it clear that the case was closed. Spark was outside the closed case while pressing the power on button of the tower.
 
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clutchc

clutchc

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I realize that the case was closed. But the contacts on the power button are only a couple mm away. And the contacts in the USB ports are closer than that. And I'm only saying that from your description, that is what it seems like. Obviously I'm not there to witness it personally.

If you didn't feel the jolt, or if you actually witnessed the spark appear internally, then it may well have been an electrical short circuit inside the power switch. But the voltages at the front panel buttons are very low. 5V at max. 12V if the LED was to blame.
 
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turkey3_scratch

turkey3_scratch

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It is very rare, but I have heard of instances where people have damaged a computer from ESD from the outside of the case even. About a month ago or so someone on this forum had the same issue.
 
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clutchc

clutchc

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@turkey3_scratch
Indeed. I can generate a very brilliant spark on my one machine just from shuffling across the carpet and reaching near the case. ESD can be in the thousands of volts. So far I haven't fried a board yet, but I have shut down the system a few times reaching for the USB port. It's an older rig with no ESD protection built into the m/b.
 
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turkey3_scratch

turkey3_scratch

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There is a lot of static buildup where I am, especially since it is Winter. I would think how the case is designed would have an effect, too. If a case is pure metal, ESD could get to the components, but if the case had rubber at certain points, it may block off any charge from reaching certain points. I know on my case there are thin black seams that aren't conductive.
 
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