Can you run a computer without the case on without any risks?

Question

I have a problem with my computer and I can't figure out what it is unless I turn on the comp. with the case off. Is it ok, or will it hurt the computer?

Answer 1

No, it won't hurt the computer. However, don't stick any metal parts in it (like screwdrivers) without watching carefully exactly what are you doing. It is better to avoid it all together - if you think you need to adjust somethig, turn off your computer, adjust, turn it back on. You might short-circuit something on one of the boards otherwise. Don't spill any liquid on it for the same reason.

Answer 2

The case is there to prevent a conductor (such as metal object) from short-circuiting one or more of the electronic components. As long as you be sure not to let anything conductive fall into the case while it is open, you can safely run the computer without it.

It also serves to prevent static electricity which you may accumulate (particularly in the winter months, when the humidity is lower) from coming into contact with the electronics. A static electricity discharge can immediately render a $3000 computer useless. When you open the computer, I recommend you do it with the power off, but with the power cord still plugged into the wall. That way, if you need to touch any of the electronic components, you can *first* touch the power supply to dischange any build up of static electricity on your person, and then handle the electronic compents free of worry of damage by electrostatic discharge.

The case can also prevent dust from getting into the electronic components. Dust can clog the cooling fans, which can cause them not to be able to provide the proper cooling to the components which they are there to cool. They can also clog the expansion slots on the motherboard, which could result in a faulty connection when you plug in an adapter card.

Bottom line is, if you need to remove the case to troubleshoot a problem, go right ahead -- you can safely run the computer for the time necessary to fix it with the case off. However, once it is operating as desired, you should put the case back.

Answer 3

There are only two probable problems. Chewing gum and hair in there can make a mess. Ditto if your pregnant cat decides to have her babies in there.


And, a really high powered machine might have cooling problems for the processor if you interrupt the movement of air from the fan.

However, if it gets too hot, put a small fan aimed at the processor cooling fins.

Answer 4

I had a friend who ran an ISP back in the 90's and had a rack of computers running in a non air conditioned room in the back of his house. He had to take the covers off of a few of them becuase of heat issues. Won't hurt it a bit, just keep your hands out of there.

Answer 5

that's going to probable be positive, until you're working some intense-end hardware, like a great fat gaming card, yet those have followers geared up in any recognize. i'd take the realm panel off and in basic terms have a table fan blowing into it.

Answer 6

The case is strictly cosmetic as far as the operation of the computer goes. Keep your hands away from power connections, and you'll be fine too.

Answer 7

It is fine, you can lay everything out on a table and still make it work. I know because I've done it.

Answer 8

No, I often tinker with mine with the case off.

Answer 9

keep in mind that dust will settle on you hardware.
Just blow the dust off every couple of days

Answer 10

you can...but i would not...take it too a computer person to have it checked out