There are various factors that can cause motherboard failure, but one of the most common culprits is electrical spikes and surges. These sudden changes in voltage can wreak havoc on the delicate circuits within a motherboard, leading to damage and potentially rendering the entire board useless.
One particularly notorious source of electrical spikes and surges is lightning. When lightning strikes near a building, it can induce high voltage surges in various electronic devices, including computers. These surges can enter the computer system through different pathways, such as the Coax Cable, Phone Line, or Ethernet Port, and can bypass surge protectors that are typically used to safeguard against such events. This means that even if you have a surge protector in place, it may not be enough to protect your motherboard from lightning-induced spikes and surges.
I have seen firsthand the devastating effects of lightning on motherboards. In one instance, a client had their computer connected to a coaxial cable for internet access. A lightning strike occurred nearby, and although they had a surge protector connected to their computer, the spike still managed to enter through the coaxial cable and completely fried the motherboard. The client was left with a non-functioning computer and a costly repair bill.
It’s important to note that lightning-induced spikes and surges are not the only cause of motherboard failure. Other factors, such as power supply issues, overheating, physical damage, and manufacturing defects, can also contribute to motherboard failures. However, when it comes to spikes and surges, lightning is often the primary culprit.
To protect your motherboard from electrical spikes and surges, it is crucial to invest in a high-quality surge protector. Look for surge protectors that offer features such as a high joule rating, multiple outlets, and protection for coaxial and telephone lines. Additionally, consider using a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) that can provide battery backup in case of a power outage and also offer surge protection.
Electrical spikes and surges, particularly those caused by lightning, can be a significant cause of motherboard failure. These spikes can bypass surge protectors and enter through pathways such as coaxial cables, phone lines, and Ethernet ports. To protect your motherboard, invest in a reliable surge protector and consider using a UPS for additional protection.