Computer Shorting - works outside of case but not inside :(

[NeoVo]

Hi guys.

Been assembling my computer and have come across a major problem (specs in sig).

The computer appears to be shorting out, and as a result i have no output via dvi and to my monitor (not the problem).

I am using the copper risers and screws which were provided with the case but i dont think this is causing the problem. I am using a zalman cpu cooler which has a back plate which i thought may be causing the problem, so iv loosened the screws. As silly as it may sound iv tried placing blue tack and paper selotaped to the backpanel to prevent contact but to no avail.

I have managed to access the bios, but this has been when the motherboard, cpu + cooler, graphics card and relevant psu cables have been outside the case.

Im really stuck on this one. Thanks in advance.

-NeoVo-

 

[NeoVo]

Silly question, have you checked the copper raisers are in the correct position?

Yeah, definetly all in the correct places. All screws, screw correctly.

May buy some insulation tape tommorrow and see what results i get.

 

[NeoVo]

Is there any unusual looking lump on the motherboard tray? Between risers?

The case is brand new and is evidently a flat surface, i tried the talcum powder trick on the base of the motherboard to help indicate any contact, and it was evident that the backplate of the zalman cpu cooler is touching, i covered the backplate using insulation tape which still failed to output to the monitor.

I think the next step is to cut a square out on the back panel around the cpu block, unless anyone has a better idea?

 

[NeoVo]

Are you 100% certain you don't have any extra spacers installed? That's the only time I've ever had a problem like this - it just takes one in the wrong place to totally stop it booting up.

There are nine holes on the motherboard, and 9 copper risers on the case and 9 screws which when tightened screw into the copper risers, im certain this isnt the problem.

I have the computer and all parts running at the moment on the floor, which obviously isnt ideal (though on cardboard and anti static bags). Must surely be the case? iv never had a problem with previous antec cases so cant really get my head around it.

 

[NeoVo]

The only connections to the motherboard throughout testing are:

CPU + cooler
GPU (due to no onboard graphics on this motherboard)
Memory
8 pin power connector
24 pin power connector
and power cable to front of case.

The above procedure has been carried with no screws (just resting on copper risers) and also with the screws, either makes a difference.

The graphics card, memory and psu have all been tested in another system and have been proven to work.

I thought that the backpanel of the HSF was supposed to be resting on the backpanel to take the strain off of the motherboard.