Can I use the foam motherboard packaging to isolate the mobo from the case?

[sctakeshi]

I have a microATX mobo (Asus A7V8X-MX SE) and a standard ATX case (Athenatech 747). The case doesn't have all the screwholes for microATX so when it is mounted the bottom-right corner comes in contact with the case. This causes the system to not boot as it "grounds out."

My question: The mobo came with a thin piece of foam which has the dimensions of the motherboard. Can I place this piece of foam between the mobo and case to isolate the mobo and prevent it from grounding out? Or would this cause the motherboard to burn up? =P How hot does the motherboard itself get; is this even an issue?

 

[mechBgon]

Your motherboard should be separated from the motherboard tray using standoffs, like shown in this edge shot. Notice how there is a significant air gap below the motherboard. The motherboard needs to be separated from the tray not only for electrical reasons, but also so that it's in the position that add-in cards (PCI and AGP cards) are designed for. More photos on this page for you.

So install the standoffs that came with the case, in exactly the positions that the motherboard has holes for, and unless the board has taken damage from being shorted out, you should be on your way (don't worry about the one unsupported corner, just don't flex it downwards)

 

[sctakeshi]

Excellent, much thanks! I found the standoffs and the computer boots up fine now. Thanks again!