Cat resetting computer (static electricity)

[nwrigley]

Ok, so my friend has a metal computer case and sometimes when her cat touches it the computer resets. Her cat builds up a lot of static electricity in her apartment - I get shocked a lot when I touch it.

My guess is that the problem is the case panel with the reset switch isn't grounded and if I unplugged it the computer would no longer reset (though it might turn off if that switch is still plugged in). My understanding is that if this is experiencing a grounding problem then the motherboard is not properly grounded. Thus, unplugging the reset and power switches would be a band-aid fix, but not fix the motherboard grounding issue.

Is my thinking correct? How would I try to make sure the motherboard was properly grounded? The system works fine otherwise.

 

[Wellcky]

The system works fine otherwise.

You said it yourself.

 

[mpilchfamily]

Simple solution... skin the cat.

The mothebroard is grounded a couple of wyas. One is threw contact with the case standoffs and the other is threw the power connections. The case it sefl should be ground threw the PSU. The ground wire from the wall should be attached to the inside caseing of the PSU thus grounding the entire system.

 

[bruceb]

All exposed metal case components, needed to be bonded together to the main chassis ground. Otherwise, this will probably keep occurring. Is there any way to move the computer case slightly back, so the cat can't reach it ? ? ? Another option which may help is to put the computer on an Anti Static Work Mat and properly ground the mat. That may help.

Like this one:

http://www.apogeekits.com/anti_static_mats.htm

Other stores also carry them.

 

[mpilchfamily]

Just a thought. Often cases come with insulated spacers that some people actually use between the motherboard and the case standoffs. If they are present they may be preventing the motherboard from being properly grounded.

 

[heymrdj]

If the side panel isn't making appropriate contact, then it's time to case mod .

Drill a hole in the side of the case, insert a brass screw which holds down the end of a wire to the case then do the same to the PSU with the other end of the wire. Profit!

 

[kalrith]

Your friend needs to take the stance of dominance with his cat.