Help identifying part??

[jljhlhl]

My fathers computer has been freezing up lately, and now suddenly it wont even boot past the HP boot screen. Upon opening up the computer I found a part rattling around in the case and am wondering if someone could identify what it is and where it may go. Whether or not it is the cause of the problem, I would still like to get it back where it belongs if possible. Sorry for the cell phone picture, but it should be enough to help identify.

Thanks!

 

[Rocko]

That doesn't look like a electronic computer component to me. Looks more like a lock.

 

[1337dingo]

yea looks like a lock..do u have a better pitcure

 

[jljhlhl]

I'll grab a better picture when I get home today. It could very well be part of the casing, as there is easy connects for the case door as well as the drive bays (no screwdrivers needed, all sliding clamp type things). I just wasnt sure if maybe it was in fact something important or just a coincidence that I heard it rattling around now that it isnt booting.

The best way to describe how it looks would be a lock, although the hoop goes through that black piece and continues through about 1/8" and comes to a point.

Like I say I'll use my actual camera to take a better picture when I'm at home.

Thanks!

 

[Dystopia]

I think it is plain coincidence. You said the case is tool-less, that part is probably from that.