How And Where To Properly Install PC Cables And Wires For SSD, Panel Switches, And More

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You’ve installed the motherboard, power supply, processor, and RAM modules. Now, it’s time to connect all the wires. Accuracy for this step is vital, as any mistakes will mean your PC may not work as it should or may not start at all.

Many devices include cables of various sorts. Most use a small multi-pin socket/plug such as a sound card, a DVD player, or a recorder with audio out, and even the buttons or USB ports on the front of your desktop PC. Others use larger pin plugs and couplings to connect to existing wires, such as power cables for the DVD or Blu-Ray player/recorder, video cards, and some cooling fans such as the ones attached to the case. Knowing where everything goes and how it connects is vital.

Follow along in this article to learn all the details for connecting cables and wires properly.

Helpful Tips for Building/Upgrading Your PC

As with any technical device, there are a few things to consider when working inside your PC for any reason, so let’s get it started in here. Did you catch that pun? Here are four essential steps to follow anytime you work on your PC.

Ensure that the power supply is disconnected. This step may not apply if you haven’t connected the power cable yet, but it’s worth mentioning just in case.
Reduce the risk of static electricity. The natural static build-up in the hands and the rest of the body can wreak havoc on internal computer parts. Whether you use an ESD mat or safety band, it’s an important step to protect your investment.
Keep your workspace clear of any liquids or debris. You don’t want to spill a water bottle all over your new computer. Clean the workspace before you begin and attempt to reduce any dust while you’re at it.
Clean your hands. When working with cables and other internal components, the oils and dirt on your hands can cause problems later. It’s best to wear powder-free nitrile gloves, but clean hands will do.

Tips for Connecting Cables Inside Your PC

If this is your first time working on electronics or even opening a computer case, you should know some essential tips before connecting components with wires.

Keep your cables organized. Ok, so this one isn’t necessarily vital to the health of your machine (except for the potential for a wire touching hot components or catching a fan). Still, a clean and organized case is glorifying. If you take a few minutes before installing your peripherals and plan the layout of everything, it will be much easier to connect everything (and replace outdated components later on). You can use small zip ties and neatly tuck everything where it belongs.

Keep your workspace organized. Just like any project, even this one can be incredibly frustrating. Do yourself a favor and cut down on that frustration by having everything you need where you can find it before ever getting to work. Also, remove any trash, debris, dust, or liquids before opening a package. This step ensures that your components are safely and adequately functioning after completing your project.

Wait to plug your power supply into a wall outlet. Warning labels exist for a reason. Don’t shock yourself because you neglected to unplug your power supply from the wall before working inside your PC.

Don’t wear jewelry or any loose clothing. You’ll quickly realize why this isn’t a great idea if you wear bracelets, loose long-sleeved shirts, or shirts with baggy waistlines while working on your machine. Say hello to getting snagged on random computer parts or frying a component with static electricity, increasing your frustration level.

Use protective gear. Admittedly, there is a ton of debate about the need for ESD bands and gloves when working on electronics, but it’s better to err on the side of caution if you don’t regularly work with motherboards, capacitors, or other small electronics. Of course, most professionals wear them anyways. The argument for wearing gloves is that oils, dirt, and other contaminants may cause damage to your computer parts (even corrosion later on). The most significant dispute for ESD precautions is that you could damage a component because of static electricity.

How to Connect Your Cables to the Motherboard

Just like hooking up a home theater system, computers have numerous cables and wires that tend to make a mess. Knowing where each wire or connector goes is essential to ensuring the correct order. Follow the steps listed below to ensure every component is hooked up and works correctly.

1. Connect the Power Button Switch Wires

To get your PC to turn on when you push the power button, connect the power switch to the motherboard. Among the loose cables in your case, you’ll find a two-pin connector, which is usually marked “PWR SW,” but check the case’s manual if you’re unsure.

The power switch wires need to connect to the power jumpers on the motherboard. Typically, these pins are located on the bottom-right section and are usually unmarked. If the item fails to work, try reversing the pins. It can be challenging to determine the proper direction, especially with tiny flat pin connectors.