Motherboard Replacement

When replacing the Motherboard, the first step that needs to be done is to disconnect all connections between the motherboard and all other components in the computer case. It is a good idea to ground yourself to avoid electrical shock; this can also be accomplished by touching the metal edge of the computer case, antistatic wrist strap, and antistatic floor mat. Once properly grounded, we can begin removal of the motherboard by disconnecting the power, and removing data cables from the hard drive.

The second step is to extract all of the PCI adapters and the video card. Keep in mind that each of the adapters attached to the motherboard are secured by a single screw on the back rail of the case. Place these screws in a container to prevent loss of the screws. Handle the adapters by the metal brackets while removing them.

Now it is time to begin removing the data cables. While using both hands to disconnect the data cables, hold it as close to the connector as possible while removing it to reduce likelihood of damage to the ribbon cable. Some cables have a pull loop or tab to ease in cable removal. If so, use them to help remove the data cable with ease.
The last set of connectors that have to be removed are the front panel leads, which attach to the motherboard. This includes LED’s, case speaker, and the power switch. These connectors are fairly easy to remove for the most part. Once all of the connectors have been disconnected and all the screws are removed, grasp the PCI slot and the CPU heat sink and lift the motherboard out of the computer case. The last thing to check when replacing the motherboard is to check the I/O (input/output) plate to make sure it matches the back of the tower, since most of the time you will not be replacing the motherboard with the same brand or model. If the I/O plate does not match the back of the tower, you will need to replace the back of the computer tower. Once all these steps have been completed, this will conclude the motherboard removal.

Once the old motherboard has been removed, we can now begin by installing the new motherboard. First thing to do is to stand the new motherboard up in the case to help locate all of the holes in the motherboard for the screws, and compare them to the locations for the screws in the computer case. Count the holes and the screws out to make sure that the new motherboard is mounted and secured correctly.

Insert the new motherboard into the computer’s case at an angle, with the back edge going in first. Once the motherboard is properly aligned in the case, push the ports through the openings, and rest the motherboard on top of the standoffs. Once this is done, do a quick check for wires and cables that might have been caught below the motherboard before beginning to secure it in place. Also remember that before you begin to secure the motherboard in place, to ensure that all of the standoffs are in place first. This will keep the motherboard from touching the case, which could cause the motherboard to short out; this will also prevent physical damage to the motherboard as well.

After the motherboard has been secured in place, begin by making sure to put the CPU back in place, or replace it with a new one as they do not come preinstalled. This also ensures you have plenty of room to work with. Once this is done, the adapters can begin to be loaded back into the motherboard. This does not have to be done in any order, just make sure that all of the adapters are firmly in place and secured to the motherboard.

Once all of the adapters are attached and in place, and the motherboard is also secured in the case, we can now begin to attach all the drive, power and data cables that were disconnected while removing the old motherboard. Use a cable tie to keep all of the cables together after they are all reconnected. This not only keeps the computer case clean and neat, but also increases air flow in the case and will aid in cooling down the computer. Congratulations! You have now just removed and installed a motherboard.