How to Remove an ATX Motherboard

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Begin by shutting down your computer and removing all cables from the case.

   It is good practice to have an anti-static wrist-wrap attached and clipped on to something metal.
   
   It is also frequently suggested to touch things metal, other than your computer, while working with sensitive computer parts. ,,, Note to what cables, and in what order each device is connected to. ,,, Place them either inside an anti-static bag or on a smooth, static-free surface out of the way. ,, Make sure to save all washers and screws you find and set them aside in an order you will be able to understand when you replace them. ,, Make sure the area you are placing it is more than stable and open for your usage.
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   Step 2: Make sure you are in a static-free environment

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   Step 3: with rubber-soled shoes on.

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   Step 4: Remove all screws holding the outer shell of your desktop or tower and slide off the metal casing.

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   Step 5: Lay your tower down on it's right side

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   Step 6: so that the open left panel is facing the ceiling.

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   Step 7: Take a mental picture

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   Step 8: or draw out a simple diagram displaying all of your drives

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   Step 9: cables

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    Step 10: and expansion cards.

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    Step 11: Remove any cables plugging into the large square/rectangular motherboard at the opposite side of the case.

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    Step 12: Unscrew all screws holding your expansion cards(video card

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    Step 13: network card

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    Step 14: sound card

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    Step 15: etc) to the case.

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    Step 16: Gently remove the expansion cards by grasping the metal support cover and the very edges of the circuit board.

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    Step 17: Tuck all of the cables remaining unhooked behind the metal bracket of your hard drives

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    Step 18: or in an empty slot beneath your CD-ROM drives

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    Step 19: as to get them out of the way.

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    Step 20: Locate and remove all screws securing the motherboard to the motherboard tray behind it.

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    Step 21: Grasp the main board at the two shorter sides and lift it up by tilting the drive side up first

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    Step 22: release the I/O cluster from the case

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    Step 23: then lift straight out.

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    Step 24: Place the motherboard on a large anti-static bag

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    Step 25: paper-bag

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    Step 26: cardboard box

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    Step 27: or table carefully.

Detailed Guide

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