Creating a power on switch?

[ejoech]

I upgraded my friend's old COMPAQ computer and I can't connect the power on switch to the new motherboard that I got. It seems to be some special compaq way of connecting the switch to the motherboard. So my question is, what's the easiest and cheapest way to make another switch? Is it as easy as just going down to Radioshack or is there more involved?

 

[rlism]

I think any $2 push button switch would work. You could use anyting really. All it has to do is briefly connect the two pins on your more mobo. A screwdriver head works for me when I'm testing bare mobos. Do it at yer own risk.

Just for Fun

Edit: some mobos are capable of powering on via keyboard, that'd be kewl too

 

[ejoech]

Hmm..I don't have much electronical experience. Could you please be more detailed as to how I could connect it to the motherboard's pins?

sage

 

[jamarno]

If it's like an ATX front power switch, you want a single-pole, normally-off momentary switch, just like a reset button. But if it has to be held down continuously, you want a latching switch (non-momentary), the kind that clicks. The voltage and amp ratings aren't important for these switches because they'll handle only 5 volts and .001 amp.

 

[GregMal]

You mean one like this????
.
http://www.power-on.com/power-on/atxswitch.html
.
Greg