How To Install A Motherboard

By: Kyle B. Anthony

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Installing a motherboard is not difficult as long as it is done methodically and with gentle care. The most difficult part of installing a motherboard is understanding how it should be situated in the case. It is also helpful to have another person to help guide the board into the computer case.

The computer case is important when installing a motherboard. This is because the computer case must fit the motherboard properly. Cases come with standardized predrilled screw holes for your motherboard to fit into. The motherboard is then secured with screws. Some motherboards are smaller than average. These can be considered mini-boards and somewhat non-standard. Caution should be taken when purchasing a case for a mini-motherboard.
Grounding yourself before handling your motherboard and case is essential. Static electric shock discharged from your body can damage your motherboard. This usually occurs by walking over rugs or other carpeted surfaces. Always touch the case of the computer first before attempting work on the computer. This will discharge any built up electricity.
Carefully make sure the opening of the case is prepared to fit the motherboard. Unscrew and take off the side panel of the case. Make sure the power-supply of the computer is removed prior to inserting the motherboard. Insert the motherboard carefully, and fit the board over the pre-screwed holes of the inside case.
Use only computer screws that properly fit into the holes. Gently secure the motherboard into place with the screws. Repeat this step for wherever a case hole fits flush with a motherboard screw hole. Do not leave any motherboard screw holes left open. Pressure forces can be exerted on the boards, especially around the memory slots. These screw holes are designed to relieve tension on the board.
Now insert your memory into the designed slots and push firmly until they click into place. You can also now install your CPU and heat-sink. Some prefer to install the CPU and heat sink onto the motherboard before inserting the motherboard into the case. If you choose to do this make sure you place the motherboard on a soft surface and not simply on wood or stone. This could damage the underside of the board.
Once you have completed all these steps, insert your power supply. Plug the power supply connectors into the proper pin connectors on the motherboard. These are connectors that will provide power to the case buttons and lights such as the power, reset, and hard drive status light. Where these connectors are located on each motherboard are different and you will need to reference your computer manual to know this for sure. Newer motherboards help label these areas directly on the motherboard.