Header pins are typical of any motherboard.
Start an old 386 computer without a keyboard lock key by opening the computer and disconnecting a lead on the motherboard or by replacing the key switch with a toggle switch. The key connection is a simple switch that controls an open or closed logic circuit. The motherboard BIOS inspects this circuit and locks the computer when the circuit is in one mode and unlocks it when it is in the other mode. This can be bypassed by determining the necessary mode to unlock the computer and hard wiring the circuit to reflect that mode or by replacing the switch.
Instructions
1. Disconnect the power and open the computer case. Attach the anti-static wrist strap to one wrist and connect the other end to a bare metal part of the case.
2. Locate the Power LED / Key Lock connector lead that goes from the motherboard header pins to the front panel LED and key lock switch.
3. Disconnect the Power LED / Key Lock connector and attempt to power on the computer. If the computer boots at this point, the circuit needs to operate in the "open" mode, which is most common. If the computer still locks the keyboard, then the circuit needs to operate in the "closed" mode. Reconnect the Power LED / Key Lock connector to allow the power LED to function correctly.
4. Cut the two wires that are connected to the key lock end of the motherboard connector (typically pins 4 and 5) near the key switch on the front panel. Attach a toggle switch or rocker switch to the front panel and connect the two wires to the new switch in order to enable or disable the key lock feature by flipping a switch. Strip a quarter of an inch or less of insulator from each wire and solder the wires to the switch. Mount the switch according to directions from the manufacturer.
5. Enable the computer without a switch by keeping the wires separated for a circuit that needs to be operated in the "open" mode and connecting the two wires together for a circuit that needs to be operated in the "closed" mode. To connect the wires, strip about a half of an inch of the insulator from each wire and twist them together. Cover the end of the wires with a small piece of electrical tape whether separated or connected.
Tags: front panel, Lock connector, Power Lock, Power Lock connector, circuit needs