Today’s SuperUser Q&A posts looks at precautions one should take with an endeavor like this.
Photo courtesy ofmachu (Flickr).
Thankfully, I have an old (compatible) CPU handy.
I would prefer not having to mount the motherboard in a case just to do the BIOS update bit.
Is it safe to power up the motherboard outside of its case?
My understanding is that the case provides grounding for the motherboard.
Could the lack of grounding be an issue?
Is it safe to power up a motherboard outside of its case?
If so, what precautions should misha256 take?
The Answer
SuperUser contributors mvp and Ricky have the answer for us.
First up, mvp:
Yes, it should be safe.
I have done this a few times.
If you stop by almost any computer shop, technicians do this sort of thing routinely.
Yes, you’re free to power up the motherboard outside of its case.
Static charge in the human body might damage the sensitive electronic components on the motherboard.
