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Supremo · 08-28-2005, 01:38 PM

I had the opportunity of converting IBM and Compaq computers to other motherboards and this is not easy. Around 50% of the screwholes align and to make things worse, some of the mounting backplate for the motherboard has a protruding metal spacer which fits with the original OEM motherboard and not with the new one. I had to cut these off with a rotary tool with a cutting disc and drill new holes to adapt it with the new motherboard.

Second, the power supply for OEMs are mounted on the side of the case and not at the top. There is a possibility of the tall capacitors hitting the power supply, you will have to measure this capacitors.

Third OEM power supplies are particularly low, I've seen them with only 200 watts - this could be a factor if you plan to use power hungry video cards and processors on the new board.

Sure the new motherboard will fit - but to mount it and make it work will be a different story.

If you plan to push through with it, then be prepared to modify the case. Be ready with a drill and rotary tool with cutting disc.

08-28-2005, 01:38 PM	#7 (permalink)
Supremo Bronze Member Join Date: Aug 2005 Posts: 71	I had the opportunity of converting IBM and Compaq computers to other motherboards and this is not easy. Around 50% of the screwholes align and to make things worse, some of the mounting backplate for the motherboard has a protruding metal spacer which fits with the original OEM motherboard and not with the new one. I had to cut these off with a rotary tool with a cutting disc and drill new holes to adapt it with the new motherboard. Second, the power supply for OEMs are mounted on the side of the case and not at the top. There is a possibility of the tall capacitors hitting the power supply, you will have to measure this capacitors. Third OEM power supplies are particularly low, I've seen them with only 200 watts - this could be a factor if you plan to use power hungry video cards and processors on the new board. Sure the new motherboard will fit - but to mount it and make it work will be a different story. If you plan to push through with it, then be prepared to modify the case. Be ready with a drill and rotary tool with cutting disc. Last edited by Supremo; 08-28-2005 at 05:10 PM.