Build a PC usb3

[Mikkitikki]

Hello. I recently got a new motherboard and case and have put everything together. I originally had the front panel usb3 connected to the motherboard but while working with some cable management I decided to try to remove it. I tried to gently wiggle it, both side to side and slightly up as reading online shows there's are clips inside the connection (that's dumb imo).

However, as careful as I was, when I disconnected the usb3 cable it took the header off of the motherboard.

 

The computer posts and boots fine. Currently the header is still connected to the usb3 cable, but I don't know if I should try to replace the header back where it was or just try to remove it and seat the cable into a different usb3 spot.

 

Anyone have any insight on what I should do?

Thank you.

[NelizMastr]

Did you just take the plastic part with it or also the pins?

 

If it's just the little plastic part surrounding the pins, just put it back over the pins and reconnect the cable. But yeah, they're rather fragile connectors, once it's in, leave it alone.

[Mikkitikki]

28 minutes ago, NelizMastr said:

Did you just take the plastic part with it or also the pins?

 

If it's just the little plastic part surrounding the pins, just put it back over the pins and reconnect the cable. But yeah, they're rather fragile connectors, once it's in, leave it alone.

Just the plastic header. The pins are still in the board. I didn't expect it to come off because I was trying so hard to be careful. I don't like using force around electronics.

[NelizMastr]

1 minute ago, Mikkitikki said:

Just the plastic header. The pins are still in the board. I didn't expect it to come off because I was trying so hard to be careful. I don't like using force around electronics.

Should be no problem to align the plastic with the pins again and reconnecting the cable. Pretty normal for the headers to be a tad loose. Same goes for fan headers.

[Mikkitikki]

27 minutes ago, NelizMastr said:

Should be no problem to align the plastic with the pins again and reconnecting the cable. Pretty normal for the headers to be a tad loose. Same goes for fan headers.

Would you recommend to try reconnecting the header to the pins while still attached to the usb3 cable? Or separate them first?

 

They're still attached because I didn't want to mess with it too much more.

[NelizMastr]

2 minutes ago, Mikkitikki said:

Would you recommend to try reconnecting the header to the pins while still attached to the usb3 cable? Or separate them first?

 

They're still attached because I didn't want to mess with it too much more.

I'd separate them first, so you don't risk bending the pins. Once they're bent, you're SOL.

[Mikkitikki]

48 minutes ago, NelizMastr said:

I'd separate them first, so you don't risk bending the pins. Once they're bent, you're SOL.

What is the best way to separate the header from the cable? I believe the connectors are on the top of the cable, so would using a flathead screwdriver potentially work? Or something plastic

[NelizMastr]

1 minute ago, Mikkitikki said:

What is the best way to separate the header from the cable? I believe the connectors are on the top of the cable, so would using a flathead screwdriver potentially work? Or something plastic

Do you have some tongs or pincers or whatever? You'll be able to pull it off more easily, but I suppose it'll work if you just gently pry it off.

[Mikkitikki]

23 minutes ago, NelizMastr said:

Do you have some tongs or pincers or whatever? You'll be able to pull it off more easily, but I suppose it'll work if you just gently pry it off.

Hmm, I think o have something like that in my oria kit. I'll have to try and look into it.

 

Thank you, I appreciate the information and help.

[Santo22]

Just to confirm for you, I recently did the same thing. It was an older mobo I was replacing and the cable had been on there for a while. When I pulled it off the plastic header came with it. I used needle noise pliers and pulled the header off the cable, made sure it was facing the correct position and pressed it back on to the mobo. Just make sure you align it properly and press firmly down over the pins. So long as you don't bend any pins, you'll be fine. 

[Mikkitikki]

53 minutes ago, Santo22 said:

Just to confirm for you, I recently did the same thing. It was an older mobo I was replacing and the cable had been on there for a while. When I pulled it off the plastic header came with it. I used needle noise pliers and pulled the header off the cable, made sure it was facing the correct position and pressed it back on to the mobo. Just make sure you align it properly and press firmly down over the pins. So long as you don't bend any pins, you'll be fine. 

It's a little unnerving how often I'm hearing people pulling the header off too. Either we're stronger than we think or it may have not been secured enough or those connectors are a PITA.

I'm glad you got yours back on.

[Mikkitikki]

I have an update!

 

I was able to pull the header off the cable. And boy, was that a feat. It turns out that yes, it has two connections on the top of the plug. And the bottom! So there were 4 connections in total, which I didn't expect. I had to use a flat head tool to pry it off, and tried to be delicate. I sure did want to toss it when I saw the 4 connectors.

 

I was also able to line up the header with the pins and ever so slowly push, as evenly as possible. Took many breaks to see if it was straight and if the pins we're coming through.

 

But the header is back on the motherboard. And staying there.

I booted the computer up to ensure it posted and everything worked fine. I'll reattach the usb3 cable later and never touching it again.

 

 

Thank you again for the responses, insight and support. I feel so much better now.