Paper Clip Trick safe?

BlueAcolyte

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Nov 19, 2007
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I am trying to jumpstart my PSU to help diagnose a ?dead? motherboard (one less part to worry about)

1) Does this void any warranties?
2) I'm not worried about electrocution, but does this kill PSUs?
3) Obviously, I need to plug something in like a fan.
 

imported_Scoop

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Dec 10, 2007
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The Zalman Reserator even comes with a clip so you can start the PSU and check the system for leaks so I'd say it's pretty safe. Just make sure you do it correctly.
 

jonnyGURU

Moderator <BR> Power Supplies
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Oct 30, 1999
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Originally posted by: BlueAcolyte
1) Does this void any warranties?

No.

Originally posted by: BlueAcolyte
2) I'm not worried about electrocution, but does this kill PSUs?

No. That's how PSU's work. The signal shorts and the PSU turns on.

Originally posted by: BlueAcolyte
3) Obviously, I need to plug something in like a fan.
Not obvious. There's already a fan in the PSU. You only need a dummy load if you're checking voltages and then you're going to want something on the +5V like a hard drive and not another +12V load like a fan.

 

BlueAcolyte

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Nov 19, 2007
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Ok then... Thanks guys!

BTW, I guess I just turn off the switch when I'm done. Or do I repeat the paper clip trick?
 

Aluvus

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Apr 27, 2006
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Originally posted by: BlueAcolyte
Ok then... Thanks guys!

BTW, I guess I just turn off the switch when I'm done. Or do I repeat the paper clip trick?

You pull out the paper clip when you want to turn off the power supply.
 

BlueAcolyte

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Nov 19, 2007
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This is suddenly irrevelant because my computer is at a local shop, where they are "diagnosing it" for $50.