could I have damaged a mobo by not plugging in ATX12V?

[dpopiz]

I just turned on a P4 system without the ATX12V connector plugged in and it made a burning smell

 

[JustAnAverageGuy]

I don't think so, worst it should do is be slightly unstable.

You probably had a few wires mixed up, or a not correctly applied heatsink though.

 

[John]

could I have damaged a mobo by not plugging in ATX12V?

No.

 

[dpopiz]

good. except I guess I still have a damaged mobo

 

[Hyperfocal]

Originally posted by: dpopiz
good. except I guess I still have a damaged mobo

Then the answer is YES