Why do my motherboards keep getting fried?

Question

I'm currently RMA-ing my 4th motherboard for my current computer. The first 2 boards were ASUS A8N Deluxe models and the second 2 were ASUS A8N Premium.

Memory: CORSAIR XMS 1GB (2 x 512MB) 184-Pin DDR SDRAM DDR 400 (PC 3200)
Processor: AMD Athlon 64 3500+ Venice 2.2GHz Socket 939 Processor
Video Card: eVGA 256-P2-N376-AX GeForce 6800GT 256MB GDDR3 PCI Express x16
Case: APEVIA X-Dreamer II ATXB4KLW-BK Black Steel ATX Mid Tower

I'm pretty sure at least 2 of the problems were from static electric shocks. That's obviously my fault (and I laughed at my mother for using those silly wrist straps). But I'm not entirely sure the other 2 failures were the same. This computer seems particularly prone to shorting out the motherboard, I don't think I've shorted a motherboard out before and I've built 3 computers. Is there anything that can cause a computer to be prone to shorting out?

I've included the specs just in case :)

Thanks in advance.

Power supply is: APEVIA ATX-AS520W-BK ATX 520W

It was $60 at the time so it's not really a crappy one.

Other than that it's well ventilated with relatively clean fans and I haven't seen any other flaky behavior that would indicate overheating.

Answer 1

Bunch of possible reasons, and I wouldn't be betting on static at this point, unless you're doing your work in a really adverse environment.

First bet, from experience, I'd suspect the case itself. If its not as well built as it should be, something as simple as metal shavings could be the culprit. And then there's the environmental issues... any thing that can conduct is a potential risk. I actually ran into a situation in which the bits from the wrappings of Hershey's kisses killed a system (the guy totally lied about it... but hard to argue when you find the bits... LOL).

Four boards, all shorted... its the case... either power supply or bits of the case touching the board.

Saw it years ago with a Mac - stress the case and the 'puter would actually reboot...

Oh - you didn't list case and power supply....

Peace,

-dh

Answer 2

I had a computer built and the first one overheated and the second does so as well.(the motherboard which is a Pentium IV was replaced along with the heat sync) It is not the fans or in a hot place, I even have the side off and it is still doing it.
The computer place that fixed it may just be trying to get more money out of me but they said it is either faulty memory or an incompatible part such as the sound card so maybe you should see if it is the memory first.
I really suggest you get a program on the computer that will let you know if it is overheating. I have Intel Active Monitor for the Pentium board and when it beeps I shut down programs running as that contributes to the overheating. Maybe you can find a program like that that will be compatible for your motherboard.
Do make sure that the computer has FANS that are dust free in it and that the computer is away from the wall and not in a cubby in a desk as this will cause it to overheat. Hope this helps!

Answer 3

I am not familiar with this particular computer but I assume you have checked the obvious things like loose wires etc. Just a suggestion, but have you checked the power supply to ensure that it is stable. If it is not it may spike and cause problems with some components.

Answer 4

stop the Presses!!!! It's the power supply. Get a new one. Spend a little extra and get a good one. That WILL stop the problem.

Answer 5

No Comment.

Answer 6

Is there enough air circulation for it, so it can breathe.

Answer 7

Your Mother-Whats ?? Just jokin...I don't no!!!

Answer 8

too much porn :P