While the CPU is turned off or does it have to be on to get fried or does it not matter at all??
2007-10-20 05:39:36 · 5 answers · asked by James 1 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Desktops
IF you have a surge protector or UPS between the outlet and your motherboard it should be safe. If not then even when the CPU is off it can take an electrical surge. In fact if you are using a modem even through the phone line with an onboard modem the motherboard can be damaged.
2007-10-20 05:43:25 · answer #1 · answered by Taztug 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The are a number of ways to fry a motherboard. While it's switched off a power surge through the mains could conceivably cause problems. Power surges can happen in a number of ways - lightning strikes and glitches from power stations. While the machine is switched on a failure of the power supply or again a surge could damage the board.
2007-10-20 13:25:39 · answer #2 · answered by greigmcl 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you're connected to a phone line modem the electrical current that goes through the phone line is as devastating as the power plug. Yes, it can fry. In an electrical storm be sure to unplug the phone line.
There is also "aluminum migration" which occurs on the board itself through normal useage. If you've increased the RAM the more migration occurs due to the rapidity of electron transfer. The circuits actually loose aluminum molecules causing the dreaded BSOD among other things.
2007-10-20 12:51:41 · answer #3 · answered by reynwater 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In a storm, even if your PC is turned off it can be fried if it does not have a GOOD surge protector. If you know that a storm is coming and you don't yet have a good surge protector then unplug your PC COMPLETELY , that includes internet conection and all.
2007-10-20 12:50:37 · answer #4 · answered by ameriphyll 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes with out a power surge protector
2007-10-20 14:03:37 · answer #5 · answered by SAM L 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋