Matt, Part of my workbench is designed around a similar setup that includes an anti-static mat, a 1 inch thick foam pad and spares of nearly every type of add-in card ever made. As long as the issue of static electricity is properly addressed throughout all handling of the parts, it's a great way to troubleshoot without the case and cables in the way, but yes, it is a bit much to suggest to most folks. Luckily, Jo Ann is not "most folks" and may actually be able to use the idea. :O) Peace, G http://tinyurl.com/ypbuue "The only dumb questions are the ones we fail to ask!" ----- Original Message ----- From: "Matt Moceri" <matt.moceri@xxxxxxxxxxx> To: <pctechtalk@xxxxxxxxxxxxx> Sent: Monday, March 31, 2008 9:07 AM Subject: -=PCTechTalk=- Re: puzzling problem > G, > There is one thing I do when having trouble with a desktop but may be a > bit much for some. Remove the mobo from the case and put it on a table > over a few books. Then I connect the bare minimum to it. The vid card, > memory, cv/dvd, A-drive, hd and hook up a power supply. Plug in a > monitor, keyboard and mouse. From here I try different combinations until > I can duplicate the problem. Many hardware problems have been diagnosed > using this method. > > Only my two cents! If you don't like my method, just make believe I > didn't send it. > > Matt M --------------------------------------------------------------- Please remember to trim your replies (including this sentence and everything below it) and adjust the subject line as necessary. To unsubscribe or change your email settings: //www.freelists.org/webpage/pctechtalk To access our Archives: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PCTechTalk/messages/ //www.freelists.org/archives/pctechtalk/ To contact only the PCTT Mod Squad, write to: pctechtalk-moderators@xxxxxxxxxxxxx ---------------------------------------------------------------