Motherboards have small pins to connect the power switch, reset button and other front panel devices.
Modern motherboards have a logic circuit that allows them to be started by electrically connecting two pins on the motherboard by using a small switch. This switch is typically mounted on the front panel of the computer and connected to the motherboard by a pair of leads. Learn how the connection can be quickly bypassed to allow the power to be turned on without using a switch by removing the leads from the motherboard and manually shorting the connectors with a conductive object.
Instructions
1. Open the case cover by removing the screws that hold the cover in place or otherwise unlocking the case cover by whatever means is indicated on the computer or in the owner's manual. This varies by computer brand and model.
2. Locate the bundle of small wires that runs from the front panel to the motherboard header pins. Determine which pair of wires goes to the "PON" or "PSW" -- power on or power switch -- pins on the motherboard. This is typically a blue and white pair but may vary by system. The power switch pins are typically pins 6 and 8 on the motherboard.
3. Pull gently on the wires that connect the power switch to the motherboard to pull the connector from the motherboard and expose the power switch pins. Inspect the motherboard for markings to indicate that the pins are in fact used for the power switch as indicated by "PON" or "PSW," or something similar.
4. Press the tip of a screwdriver or other metal object between the two pins gently to make a momentary contact between them and start the computer. Immediately remove the object once the computer begins to turn on.
Tags: power switch, front panel, pins motherboard, power switch pins, switch pins, case cover, connect power