I'm setting up a PC in an In Win EM013 case, which has an integrated power supply, and I found around seven loose cables labeled things like "PM," "PX," "PO," and "PN." None of them seem to match connectors on my motherboard, and the case didn't include a manual. Are these cables required, or can they safely remain unplugged?
3 Answers
Since this case has an integrated PSU, several of the wires may come from the power-supply assembly and may be intended for optional components or a specific motherboard layout. Without the correct case documentation, it’s safest not to connect them by guesswork. Bundle them neatly and keep the connectors away from fans, heatsinks, and other moving or hot parts.
Unused cables won’t hurt anything as long as they’re secured and not able to touch a fan or any exposed electrical contacts. Only connect the standard motherboard cables and the clearly labeled front-panel connectors that match your board’s manual.
They’re probably proprietary cables for optional case features or hardware that isn’t present in your build. If the PC boots normally and things like the front USB ports, power button, audio jacks, and other case features work, you can leave unused connectors unplugged. Don’t try to force them into motherboard headers just because they look similar.
Thanks, that clears it up. I’ll leave them disconnected and check that the front-panel features work.