Building PC without case

[Monolith]

I was just looking thru all the junk I have accumulated and find that I have enough parts to build a system except a case. I even have a power suply just no case.
I am guessing I can still build a PC without the case, I just don't know how to handle the power switch issue. I would need to either short the jumper on the board and use the ps switch to turn the system on, or come up with some other solution. I have already mounted the MB under my desk and all the peripherals are visible from the front. Has anyone tried anythng like this? I am waiting to buy one of them cube cases, but they cost too much and I want to have the system up and running before that.
Any suggestions??
Thanks in advance

 

[PrincessGuard]

You can't simply short the power switch with a jumper. The ATX standard calls for a momentary switch. If you use a jumper, you will not be able to turn the machine back on after you shut it down the first time.

The easiest way is to find a switch somewhere, like a reset button off an old AT case if you have any lying around.

You can also short the green Power OK wire on your power supply header to a black Ground wire. This should let you turn the machine on and off with the power supply switch.

 

[CollinsCollector]

A case mounted power switch is a 'momentary contact' type switch. The contacts are closed only as long as the switch is depressed. Therefore, I would NOT recommend permanently shorting the power switch contacts on your mobo and using the power supply switch for on-off purposes. I have no idea what the results would be, but I sure wouldn't try it!

I've built several systems outside of a case for initial testing (much easier access) prior to mounting. In fact, I have a new K7S5A system spread out on a desk as I am writing this.

I've found that an insulated (plastic sleeve) miniature alligator clip works very well as a temporary on-off switch. Simply attach the very last 'tooth' of the clip to one power switch pin (on the mobo) and, when you want to turn-on or shut-down, just rotate the clip so that the small exposed portion comes into contact with the other pin. It may be necessary to hold it there for >4 secs for shut-down, depending.....This type of alligator clip is available from Radio Shack in the form of a jumper (actually, a bag of them!). Just cut one off, or attach one clip and use the other clip to touch the other pin.

This solution works well as a temporary setup. For your specific purposes, you'll have to improvise. Perhaps using the switch and connectors from an old case?

Best of luck.

 

[quakedog]

just use ur bios and keyboard to turn on ur pc and for turning off???

just an idea

 

[TruculentTucan]

Why don't you just buy a power switch?

 

[ukDave]

im sure you're local hardware store would have something like that.