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Main => Main Forum => Topic started by: datac0re on November 23, 2004, 08:51:34 pm

Title: Need help with computer hardware
Post by: datac0re on November 23, 2004, 08:51:34 pm

Well was given a Dell Optiplex gx240 that had been flooded, and I figured it'd be a great mame computer as long as it worked. Problem is, the mobo seems like it's been fried.

I have a functional power supply, hard drive, cd-rom, and video card, and I'd like to salvage the case if possible. The only problem I have with the case is that since it's a Dell, the case setup is a little funky. They use an extra connector on their motherboards that goes to another smaller chip on the inside-front of the case, which is connected to the power on/off button. Since I can't use this power button setup, I'd like to just buy a power and reset switch that can be connected to the motherboard (exactly what comes with a normal ATX case).

Do any of you know where I can buy just those switches/connectors?
Title: Re: Need help with computer hardware
Post by: Wyluli on November 23, 2004, 08:59:26 pm
I think I would just buy a new case.  You can generally find them for pretty cheap (under $30).
The place I like to buy my cases from is colorcases.com and they often have clearance cases for $20 or less.
Title: Re: Need help with computer hardware
Post by: AmericanDemon on November 23, 2004, 09:59:10 pm
However the dell mobo is proprietary so only a dell case will work with it.
Title: Re: Need help with computer hardware
Post by: datac0re on November 24, 2004, 06:12:34 am
But its the mobo that's fried anyways. I'm probably going to have to buy a new mobo.
Title: Re: Need help with computer hardware
Post by: Tiger-Heli on November 24, 2004, 07:30:36 am
Ok, you have a fried Dell mobo.

From what I have read, the Dell PS will not work with a standard motherboard.  (Same connector with pins in a different order),  so you need a new PS.

The Power and reset switches are just momentary switches.

If a new motherboard and power supply will fit in a dell case, then you could probably splice the existing switches to a chopped CD-Rom audio cable and run this to the new mobo.

Otherwise, you might want a new case.

Recommendations:

Antec case with 350W Power Supply (http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=11-129-150&depa=1) - $58 and $15 shipping.

Fortron 300W Power Supply (http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=17-104-937&depa=1) $26.50 and $7 shipping  I use this Power Supply.  It is rock solid and almost silent.  Don't let the 300W rating fool you, that's conservative.

Linkworld case with no power supply (http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=11-164-039&depa=1) $14.50 and $13.00 shipping

I've had pretty good luck with www.newegg.com's refurb'd motherboards, but their new ones aren't that bad either.

Since I really like the Fortron PS and the separate suppy and case is less than the Antec case, I would recommend this combination.