Installing motherboard to motherboard tray

[riederer]

I'm building a computer for the first time and I'm about to install the motherboard to the motherboard tray. (FYI Asus A7V133 to Addtronics A6896A case) Included with the case were two types of metalltic motherboard risers and these cardboard (?plastic; definitely not metal) washers, and a ton of screws. I think I remember reading somewhere that the motherboard cannot come in direct contact with the motherboard tray. Anyway, are these washers used to prevent this from happening? Should they go between the screw and the motherboard, or the motherboard and the riser, or between both? Or, are they not used for this at all, and I'm making this all up in my head?

Sorry for the dumb question, but there weren't many instructions with the case.

Thanks.

 

[Tominator]

No need to use them at all.

BTW, it's not dumb! The only dumb question is one never asked!

Every case I've ever seen came with many parts that are not needed.....and some I've no idea what in the world they are for!

 

[CollinsCollector]

I agree with tominator.

Also, do not attempt to insulate your mobo from the tray. You'll notice a "conductive surface" with small "dimples" around each mobo mounting hole. The purpose of this is to make electrical contact with the mounting screw, which in turn makes electrical contact with the tray.

Check over the screws that came with your case and separate them by type. You'll probably have a number of hex heads, some of which may have a smooth surface (as opposed to "ribbed&quot on the underside of the head. I prefer to use this style for mobo mounting so as not to score the conductive surface around the mobo mounting hole.

And last, but definitely a very important thing; make several "dry fits" and make certain you don't have a mounting stud on the tray for which there is no corresponding mounting hole on the mobo.

Best of luck with your new system.

 

[riederer]

Thanks Tominator and CollinsCollector. Yes, I did notice those tiny bumps around the mounting holes of the motherboard, and didn't know what they were for. I just don't know why my case came with these washers though...

 

[Zach]

FYI it's all done for grounding.

 

[Regalk]

Case manufactures like to give all the hardware for typical/non-typical installations covering various sizes Mobos. I only use the plastic standoffs in some hard to reach places and for extra support - otherwise I use all metal standoffs without the red washers. I use a minimum of 4 metal and sometimes 6 metal stand offs and I have installed/reinstalled wel over 50 motherboards and have a 100% success rate even with the latest KT133A boards.

 

[riederer]

At least you know what red washers I'm talking about! I was going out of my mind figuring out what they're used for, and every time I came to the conclusion that they're used somewhere between the motherboard, screw, and metal riser. Everyone I've talked to just directly screws the motherboard onto the metallic risers. Thanks!