Turning on a computer without a power button

[Raswan]

Put this here, rather than computer help, but if a mod doesn't like it feel free to move it. I won't have hurt feelings.

So I have all the components connected and sitting out on a desk, but no extra case in which to put them. Sure, I could spend 20$ on a cheapo one, but I'd have to wait at least 2 days to get it. So my question: If I complete the circuit between the positive and negative pins on the mobo for the power (used a spare jumper from an old IDE drive and a pair of rubber-coated needlenose pliers), this computer starts up. If I want to reset, do the same thing with the reset pins. I can't get it to turn off unless I hit the switch on the psu or just unplug it from the wall. Does this negatively impact the longevity of the mobo or the rest of the computer?

I don't have anything invested in the components, as they are all castoffs from a couple of years ago. If it all starts on fire tonight, whatever. And eventually I'll put them in a case. But right now I would like to know if I am doing irreversible damage, in the meantime.

Gracias!

 

[Ferzerp]

No, it won't hurt anything if you don't short the incorrect pins.

The same process to power it on will power it off if you maintain it for 5 seconds.

 

[holden j caufield]

easiest solution is wake on lan. I have mine connected to a router. When I need to power them on I go the router GUI, select which one I want to wake up and it's done.

 

[Charles Kozierok]

No, it won't hurt anything if you don't short the incorrect pins.

The same process to power it on will power it off if you maintain it for 5 seconds.

Yep. That's pretty much all the power button is doing these days.

 

[Raswan]

Yep. That's pretty much all the power button is doing these days.

Good to know. Thanks for the input everyone.

 

[Raswan]

easiest solution is wake on lan. I have mine connected to a router. When I need to power them on I go the router GUI, select which one I want to wake up and it's done.

Good point. Maybe I don't even have to buy a case!

 

[Daemas]

just use a flat head screw driver, you only need to make the connection for the split second on power up.

 

[dawp]

plus if you have a either a ps2 mouse or keyboard, you can have either power on the system.


you could also create a switch with a 2 pin fan tail and momentary switch.

 

[pauldun170]

For all of my PC's I use wake on lan and remote shutdown through my iTouch.
Its rare that I touch the power button unless I'm right in front of the tower.