When you’re building a PC, it’s easy to get caught up in choosing the right components, like the CPU and graphics card, and overlook the smaller details. One such detail is the screws that are needed to attach the motherboard to the case. If you’re wondering whether or not motherboards come with screws, you’ve come to the right place. In this article by (Desktop Bold), I’ll be addressing this question and providing you with all the information you need to make sure your PC build goes smoothly.
I’ll be discussing which screws you need for your motherboard, whether or not they come included, and where you can get them if needed. So, read on to find out everything you need to know about screws and motherboards.
What Screws Are Used For A Motherboard?
Motherboards typically use a variety of different screws for various purposes. The most common types of screws used for a motherboard are:
Standoff screws: These screws are used to mount the motherboard to the computer case. Standoff screws have a threaded shaft and a threaded female end, which is used to hold the motherboard in place. They come in different sizes and shapes, depending on the specific motherboard and case.
M3 screws: M3 screws are small, typically Phillips head screws used to attach components to the motherboard. They are commonly used to attach expansion cards, such as graphics cards and sound cards, to the motherboard.
M.2 screws: These screws are used to secure M.2 solid-state drives (SSDs) to the motherboard. They are typically small and have a flat, wafer-like head.
Fan screws: Fan screws are used to attach fans to the case or to the motherboard itself. They typically have a wide, flat head and come in various sizes to accommodate different fan mounting holes.
It’s important to use the right type of screw for each application, as using the wrong type of screw can damage the motherboard or components, or prevent the screws from fitting properly. It’s also important to not over-tighten screws, as this can cause damage to the motherboard or strip the threads on the screws.
Which Screws Should I Use to Install the Motherboard?
When installing a motherboard, it’s important to use the appropriate screws to ensure that the motherboard is securely mounted in the case. The screws you should use to install the motherboard depend on the type of case and motherboard you have, as well as the location of the screw holes on the motherboard. Here are some general guidelines:
Standoff screws: These screws are essential to mount the motherboard to the case. They are typically made of brass or plastic and have a threaded female end and a threaded male end. The female end goes into the case and the male end goes into the motherboard. Standoff screws come in different sizes and shapes, so make sure to use the correct size and shape for the screw holes on your motherboard and case.
M3 screws: These screws are used to attach expansion cards and other components to the motherboard. They are typically small, Phillips head screws, and come in different lengths. When installing expansion cards, make sure to use the screws provided with the card, as they may be a different size or length than other M3 screws.
Other screws: Depending on your motherboard and case, you may also need to use other types of screws, such as M.2 screws, fan screws, or other specialty screws. Make sure to refer to the documentation provided with your motherboard and case to determine which screws you need to use.
It’s important to use the correct size and type of screw for each application, as using the wrong type of screw can cause damage to the motherboard or components. When tightening screws, be careful not to over tighten them, as this can also cause damage.
Is Installing the Motherboard With Only Screws Wrong?
Installing the motherboard with only screws can be problematic, as it can cause the board to bend or warp, which can lead to damage to the components or even break the connections between them. To prevent this from happening, it’s important to use standoff screws when mounting the motherboard to the case.
Standoff screws create a gap between the motherboard and the case, which helps to prevent the board from bending or warping. They also help to prevent the motherboard from making contact with the case, which can cause a short circuit.
In addition to using standoff screws, it’s also important to ensure that the screws are tightened properly. Tightening the screws too much can cause the motherboard to warp or bend, while not tightening them enough can cause the board to move around inside the case, which can also cause damage.
It’s also important to use the correct type of screw for each application, as using the wrong type of screw can cause damage to the motherboard or components. When installing the motherboard, be sure to refer to the documentation provided with your case and motherboard to determine the appropriate screws to use and how to properly install them.
What Are the Mounting Screws?
Mounting screws are a type of screw that is used to attach one object to another. They are typically used to attach components, such as hard drives, optical drives, fans, and power supplies, to the inside of a computer case. Mounting screws come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and materials, and are designed to fit specific screw holes on the object being mounted.
Some common types of mounting screws used in computer hardware include:
Hard drive screws: These screws are used to attach hard drives to the drive bays inside a computer case. They typically have a small, flat head and are made of metal.
Optical drive screws: These screws are used to attach optical drives, such as DVD or Blu-ray drives, to the drive bays inside a computer case. They are typically small and have a flat, round head.
Fan screws: These screws are used to attach fans to the inside of a computer case. They typically have a wide, flat head and come in various sizes to accommodate different fan mounting holes.
Power supply screws: These screws are used to attach power supplies to the inside of a computer case. They typically have a small, flat head and are made of metal.
It’s important to use the correct type of mounting screw for each application, as using the wrong type of screw can cause damage to the object being mounted or prevent the screw from fitting properly. It’s also important to not over-tighten screws, as this can cause damage or strip the threads on the screws.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, motherboards typically do not come with screws. However, many computer cases come with a set of screws, including standoff screws, that are designed to be used with various components, including the motherboard. It’s important to use the correct type and size of screws when installing a motherboard to ensure a secure and safe installation. It’s recommended to refer to the documentation provided with your motherboard and case to determine the appropriate screws to use and how to properly install them.
