The PC case seems to be struggling with power delivery.
The PC case seems to be struggling with power delivery.
The ground wire isn’t present, and this appears to be a basic, inexpensive setup where the motherboard is simply fastened to the metal enclosure. Since there’s no grounding connection, it can cause shocks because another component or part is touching the case—possibly the motherboard itself? (Anything else possible?)
I realized earlier that there are standoffs present, not in direct contact with the case, though they are metal screws. The item was assembled by a local shop and a friend gifted it to me. I took it apart to clean it thoroughly—it was extremely dusty—and then put it back together. I also rewired the power button since it wasn’t functioning properly (it had rust). It seems unrelated to the issue now, as it works fine. Photo of the interior:
It's hard to see clearly, but those aren't the right screws. A better picture would clarify. Also, the power button part seems questionable too… I'm not confident about the screws since they're barely visible. Just remember that touching the case with unintended contact can cause issues, even if nothing happens—it's risky and should be fixed. Proper installation is key to keeping the motherboard separate from the case.
The fittings remained the same; likely the prior contractor or another source.
It has no connection to the contents inside the computer's enclosure; it’s about connecting the case to the external ground via the power supply. Any setup fed by mains wiring, featuring a metal body and not grounded, tends to create a sense of being connected to electricity. Fundamental electrical wiring basics.
I only made a very small connection, just a few millimeters of wire, and then used hot glue over any exposed parts. The two switch wires are separate from the metal and sit on a tiny PCB in the front plastic panel—so they won’t touch anything metallic. The screws were already in place before, and I might replace them if needed. When installing screws, look for proper alignment and secure placement in their designated spots. They should hold the case firmly without any issues. Regarding the mains earth: it shouldn’t matter whether the internal wiring is working or not, as long as the connection is solid and the circuit is safe. If there’s no issue inside, it usually means the external ground path is intact.
there’s only one type of standoff screw, apparently… as mentioned, I’m struggling to identify it from your photo… the head needs to be rounded. This might be the wrong screws causing what you’re describing, so that’s one possibility. It could work either way… the results would be similar, though it doesn’t seem to work with a different main cable? What’s the problem then (sounds like you’ve already found a solution?)
The incoming power typically includes noise suppressor capacitors from the two wires supplying electricity to ground. These components generate the AC voltage you sense. No live part is in contact with the enclosure. You replaced the main cable; it likely had an earth wire for safety. If a fault occurred inside the box, the circuit breaker would have reacted. Capacitor-based AC won’t provide enough current to trigger a breaker.
These capacitors are likely placed inside the wall, but the exact location can vary depending on the country. If you're unsure, checking with a local electrician would be safest.