Shocking!

Overslop · 11 Jan 2016 at 14:41

Hello chaps,

Got an issue with my new build. If I touch the backplate/screws on the case etc. I get a mild electric shock/tingling sensation. First thought was grounding issue with the motherboard. Have completely rebuilt the computer though and can't see where I could be causing this issue. I changed the screws used to install both the motherboard and PSU. I have taken the I/O backplate out but that hasn't helped. Moving the computer around to different sockets in my apartment does not fix this either.

Things I have already considered but not tested yet:

Improperly grounded wiring in my apartment
Faulty power cable
Faulty PSU

First time I have ever had to deal with this kind of problem. Would love to hear some advice on how best to proceed.

P.S. I live in Thailand, might be worth mentioning.

darwin1859 · 11 Jan 2016 at 14:48

Is it a 3-pin power socket? I'd first check the ground on the socket with a multimeter.

Begbie · 11 Jan 2016 at 14:50

Yeah I'd get a multi-meter on there to check what kind of voltage, if you were shorting onto the case I'd expect it to blow something on the PC.

Overslop · 11 Jan 2016 at 14:50

darwin1859 said:
Is it a 3-pin power socket? I'd first check the ground on the socket with a multimeter.

Thanks for the reply darwin. Yes, it's a 3-pin power socket and cable. Got a multimeter on the way already but need to wait for it to arrive.

Bantu · 11 Jan 2016 at 15:18

It certainly appears that something in your PC is grounding itself against the case, which in turn is grounding ITSELF against you when touched.

It could be the power switch or LED on the case, the fan wires, it could even be your audio plugs (i've had a slight sting in the past from a 3.5mm socket). I would check what's touching the case.

Do you get the shock if you take the side panels off?

new boy · 11 Jan 2016 at 16:41

I had that once.

It was an analog pci fan controller for me.