Ray L. Volts wrote:

"Bart Bervoets" wrote in message
...

Is it bad for a computer power supply to be switched on without a load?
I know it's possible to start the power supply, i get loads of power
supplies in
from returns but i don't want to chance blowing a mainboard up
(i could hook an old cd rom drive up to put a load on 5 and 12v but
would like to avoid clutter.)

http://www.certiguide.com/apfr/cg_ap...owerSupply.htm

It doesn't address his question. It also says:

"Be aware that a power supply may display proper voltages
when nothing is connected to it, yet these voltages can fall

below acceptable levels when a load is applied."

This is correct, but more often, voltages will be out of tolerance not
when a load is applied but unless a load is applied.

I wouldn't rely on PC "technician" courses or guides for correct
hardware information.