When performing internal hardware work, upgrades, or repairs, disconnect your build or disable the PSU switch.
When performing internal hardware work, upgrades, or repairs, disconnect your build or disable the PSU switch.
I was swapping out the graphics card or was just clearing out dust from the fans? I don't remember, but I dropped the screw and it landed in the PSU. Luckily, I had already unplugged the device before beginning, otherwise the PSU would have been damaged, and maybe the main board too.
Those who advise against disassembling the PSU are right, but since I studied electronics in college, I was able to safely discharge the high-voltage capacitors. To do that, I’d have needed to remove the screws from the case and then the PSU itself.
I took a quick shortcut—flipped the whole computer upside down, shook it, tilted it, and finally pulled the screw out.
Electronics student in college, what topics are currently covered? PSU isn't linked to anything, just a brief 12v wire on 24pin to ground and power LED contacts. When connected to the MB, depress the power start button for a few seconds. That discharges all capacitors in both the PSU and MB.