On/off switch on case is broken. What can I do?

[bupkus]

Computer won't start as the on/off switch is jammed.

 

[VansTheMan]

Is it a two-position switch or a button mounted to a PCB? You can remove the switch and try to fix it/replace. You could also bypass it and just touch the wires together. I had a friend who turned his computer on by brushing two wires together that were sticking out the front of the case, but that wasn't that smart.

 

[stranger707]

I would take the case apart and see if you can unjam the switch. The front panel can usually be removed to get to the switch, which is mounted to the case structure. You should then be able to jiggle the button on the outside of the case and work it free.

 

[bupkus]

I've taken the case apart and I was wondering what I can do if it's unrepairable.
IOW, can I us a jumper on the pins?

 

[VansTheMan]

I don't think putting a jumper on the pins would work because the switch is probably the pulse kind. It doesn't stay connected all the time like a jumper on the pins would. It just makes a connection for a short time telling the mobo to turn on the PS. I've never tried the jumper thing, so I can't say for sure if it'll work or not. I'm guessing your switch is the electronic kind and not the physical toggle. If it is the kind that has a post coming out of it that clicks in and out, then you could cut the two wires coming out of it and just brush them together to turn it on. It'll be easier to help if we know exactly what kind of switch it is. If the switch is irreparable, you can always get another switch and replace it.

Yeah, momentary, not pulse. That's what I meant.

 

[mechBgon]

Go to your local Radio Shack and pick up a momentary-contact switch of some kind. Here's an example: link

 

[HalfCrazy]

If the old switch cant be fixed at all. You could go to RadioShack and get a 'momentary push button switch'. Then use that to startup the system. That would be the best in the long run in my book. Using a jumper to startup the system would be a big pain after a while. All though you would have to mount the new switch some where but that would not be hard. Below is a link to a good sample of a switch you could use.

Momentary Switch - Catalog #: 275-1566

 

[wetcat007]

To temporarily start u computer, u can take a simple jump piece, and use it to touch the two connectors for the power button for a second, and then pull it away and it'll boot.

 

[ChefJoe]

Just think of this as an opportunity to mod your case with one of those jet fighter's missle arming-type covered switches.... just make a momentary contact and then put back down.

 

[bupkus]

Originally posted by: mechBgon
Go to your local Radio Shack and pick up a momentary-contact switch of some kind. Here's an example: link

Unfortunately, I need a good fit as these go to a childcare center where the kids beat them up.
Ever Case from NewEgg.com
Just a pic.

 

[ChefJoe]

You may just find it easier to mount the new switch on a drive bay cover.

 

[Adul]

use the reset switch,

 

[bupkus]

Originally posted by: Adul
use the reset switch,

ChefJoe's idea is good as is yours.
Thanks.

 

[oldfart]

Most BIOS' have keyboard/mouse power-up options. If yours does, use the jumper wire to boot once, then set a keyboard power up option. No more need for a button.

 

[Vonkhan]

hot wire ur PC

 

[bupkus]

Originally posted by: oldfart
Most BIOS' have keyboard/mouse power-up options. If yours does, use the jumper wire to boot once, then set a keyboard power up option. No more need for a button.

Excellent. I think I'll disable all the power-up buttons and exclusively use your recommendation.

 

[bocamojo]

Wouldn't it just be easier to buy a new case? I'm sure you can get one fairly cheap, and it will be an upgrade...

 

[PlatinumGold]

Originally posted by: VansTheMan
Is it a two-position switch or a button mounted to a PCB? You can remove the switch and try to fix it/replace. You could also bypass it and just touch the wires together. I had a friend who turned his computer on by brushing two wires together that were sticking out the front of the case, but that wasn't that smart.

Hope it wasn't an AT Mobo/Power supply.