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Difficulty: EasyMotherboards Form Factors and Connectors

A technician is installing a new motherboard inside a desktop chassis and is connecting the front panel cables from the case to the motherboard. Which header must be connected to enable the physical power button on the front of the computer case to turn on the system?

  1. PWR_SW headerAnswer
  2. B
    24-pin ATX power connector
  3. C
    SO-DIMM slot connector
  4. D
    M.2 Key M socket

Answer

The PWR_SW header is the front-panel motherboard header used to connect the chassis power button switch.
The front-panel header labeled PWR_SW (Power Switch) is specifically designed to connect the momentary contact switch located on the computer case to the motherboard, enabling the user to power the system on and off.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the purpose of front panel headers on a desktop motherboard.
Front panel headers link case controls and status LEDs (power switch, reset switch, drive activity LED, power LED) to the motherboard circuitry.
The physical push-button on the chassis relies on a two-pin header connection to signal the motherboard firmware to initiate boot.
2
Match the requirement (chassis power button) with the correct motherboard pin group.
The PWR_SW (Power Switch) jumper connection completes the momentary signal circuit needed to turn on the system.
Other headers or sockets serve distinct power delivery, memory insertion, or drive storage roles.

Key Concept

Motherboard Front Panel Headers and Control Pin Layouts
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Motherboards Form Factors and Connectors

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