Key lock switch case mod

[kilobyte]

So i was poking around the interwebs when i ran in to this page and though it was a rather interesting idea. http://www.overclockersclub.com/guides/keylock/

Now the only issue i would see with this is by using a key as a switch that would mean the power leads would be always connected if the key is left on the on spot right? would that damage the motherboard by doing this?

also would this be a good choice for a key switch ? http://www.alibaba.com/product-gs/287647235/7_Pin_Power_Switch_lock.html?s=p

 

[CaptNumbNutz]

So i was poking around the interwebs when i ran in to this page and though it was a rather interesting idea. http://www.overclockersclub.com/guides/keylock/

Now the only issue i would see with this is by using a key as a switch that would mean the power leads would be always connected if the key is left on the on spot right? would that damage the motherboard by doing this?

also would this be a good choice for a key switch ? http://www.alibaba.com/product-gs/287647235/7_Pin_Power_Switch_lock.html?s=p

It depends on the type of keyed switch. There are a couple of ways to go about this depending on the switch type.

If it is momentary and spring loaded (functions similarly to the ignition on a car), then the switch will return to the no contact position (no electricity flowing) the second you let go of the key.

If it is the type of keyed switch where turning the key leaves it in the on position and it does not return to off position, then your only option is to wire it in series with a regular push button switch. This way, turning the key means electricity flows to a push button momentary switch (like the one that is already on your computer case) which actually controls the flow of electricity to the motherboard.

There is very little description to the key switch you listed. Based on the very sparse detail, I'm going to assume since the key can be removed in 2 different positions and it can be turned 90 or 180 degrees, the switch is of the type that stays on and in the position you turned it. This means it would fall under the second example above where you would wire it in series with a separate push button momentary switch.

Honestly, I think adding a keyed power switch is a flawed idea unless you are going to go all the way and secure the housing of the computer (security screws, etc.) so they can't bypass the switch by shorting the motherboard headers. The only other situation I can think of where it would work is a themed mod such as making it look like a military weapon control panel or something to that effect.

 

[Nivram]

Of course, if it's a constant on keyed switch, there's nothing that says you couldn't just turn it to the on position, then right back to the off position, so it acts like a momentary switch.

Of course, that sort of defeats the cool factor of having it, doesn't it?

 

[CMadki4]

I'd retain the traditional momentary push button power switch and put a key in series it. This way you'd only be able to power the system on/off by the push button with the key engaged.