Motherboard Installation

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Standoffs

• motherboard is attached to the case by using standoffs
  • hold the motherboard firmly and ensure no other part of it touches the case
  • standoffs are positioned in holes that line up in the same position in the case and the motherboard if they use compatible form factors

Installation Procedure

The general procedure for installing a motherboard is as follows:

1. Check whether any jumper clips need to be adjusted. A jumper is placed over header pins in a particular orientation.

   • there may be a jumper that enables recovery mode
   • use motherboard documentation to familiarize with specific installation procedure

2. Orient the board to the oblong I/O cut out at the rear of the case.

   • Prepare the motherboard I/O blanking plate in the correct orientation by removing caps so that USB, audio, and video ports will be uncovered when the board is fitted
   • Fit the blanking plate to the case by snapping it into the cut out

3. Insert standoffs into the case to match the hole locations on the motherboard.

   • Standoffs are usually threaded, though older cases might use push-down pegs
   • There might be a guide standoff attached to the case or all standoffs might come preinstalled
   • Make sure that corners, long edges, and the center of the board will be supported
   • Do not add standoffs where there is no corresponding hole on the motherboard

4. Optionally, add the CPU and memory modules to the motherboard before installing the board in the case.

5. Check the alignment and standoff location again and verify that each standoff is secure.

   •  If everything is correct, place the motherboard on the standoffs

6. Secure each standoff using the appropriate screw type.

   • Make sure that the board is firm and stable, but do not overtighten the screws or you risk cracking the board

7. Add the power and disk devices to the case, install any add on adapter cards to the motherboard, and install the data and power connectors.