Did I damage my motherboard??

[Vulgrim]

I recently got a new case. Last night when I got done setting everything up and turned on the PC I had a lot of interference in my audio coming from my sound card. So I took it out to try to readjust it away from the wires that were touching hoping that would fix it. Here's the problem though. My computer was on when I took my sound card out. Then a few seconds later the computer shuts off and now it doesn't detect my graphics card or sound card. Have I damaged my motherboard? What do you think?

 

[pcgeek11]

Very possible. Why in the hell would you do that with the PC on. That is the very first rule. Do Not add or remove components with the PC turned on or even plugged in.

 

[Puffnstuff]

More than likely you shorted it out when you did that. I would try deenergizing the entire thing for a few minutes and then restart it.

 

[silicon]

I recently got a new case. Last night when I got done setting everything up and turned on the PC I had a lot of interference in my audio coming from my sound card. So I took it out to try to readjust it away from the wires that were touching hoping that would fix it. Here's the problem though. My computer was on when I took my sound card out. Then a few seconds later the computer shuts off and now it doesn't detect my graphics card or sound card. Have I damaged my motherboard? What do you think?

you have damaged something by removing the card with power on. You need to isolate the MB if it is damaged.

 

[Smoblikat]

Very possible. Why in the hell would you do that with the PC on. That is the very first rule. Do Not add or remove components with the PC turned on or even plugged in.

I disagree with that, I always leave it plugged in and the PSU switched off.

But as for everything else, youre correct.

 

[pcgeek11]

I disagree with that, I always leave it plugged in and the PSU switched off.

But as for everything else, youre correct.

Using proper grounding techniques you don't have to have it plugged in for a ground. You just need to Not have a potential difference between you and the PC.

I am a paranoid electrician / electronics tech. I avoid live circuits like the plague.

 

[BonzaiDuck]

Using proper grounding techniques you don't have to have it plugged in for a ground. You just need to Not have a potential difference between you and the PC.

I am a paranoid electrician / electronics tech. I avoid live circuits like the plague.

Well, I'm a paranoid non-electrician/electronics-tech. I knew well of these hazards going back to 1983 when I bought my first and only PC transportable.

Usually and as a firm rule, I (a) switch off the PSU, and (b) pull the plug, plug it back in, and pull it out again before I begin work. I often use a ground-strap clipped to the case, but typically rest an arm or a hand on case-metal while I'm working or removing components.

Worst thing you can do -- removing a component with the motherboard still under power.