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I have toddlers and would like to childproof the power button on my desktop computer which sits on the floor. Unfortunately I don’t have the option of moving it out of reach and I can’t really put any kind of a barrier around the desk.
Some kind of little latching cover is what I’m imagining, but of course it’s preferable if the solution doesn’t involve permanently maiming the aesthetic of the computer case.
The function of the power button is entirely defined by software.
This can be a BIOS setting in the power management section. By default the power button (PWR) is set to always power off after a delay of 4 seconds which should be enough time for toddlers to lose interest. Some BIOS allow to also disable this or have different options.
Most operating Systems also allow to define what the power button does. In Windows 10 you will find those in the System Settings Power Options. Look for the power button settings for a choice of
A combination of both BIOS, and OS settings may lead to the desired protection until the kids are old enough to operate this button alone.
Only if those fully and easily reversible measures didn't help I would consider a hardware hack.
That said, nothing can resist a truly inventive child's efforts: "The mains cord makes a fun pull toy." "Bashing all the keys makes loud noises." "Will the diaper pin fit the mains outlet?"
If you are trying to protect it against being turned on, you can:
If you are trying to protect it against being turned off, I don't have a solution. But I imagine you would be at your computer when it's on (usually), so you could keep the little hands away.
If you are willing to do a major hack...
You can buy a button in any electronic store, such as RadioShack. These are the cheapest thing. Something like this:
You can then open the case of your desktop and find the two wires that go on its power button. Cut those wires, splice new longer ones. Have them come out the back of the desktop case and go all the way to a place where your children cannot reach. Then attach the ends of the wires to the button's contacts. You will have moved the on/off switch to a higher position while keeping the desktop case in place.
If you disconnect the wires from the motherboard, you will have to reconnect them exactly as they were in order to be able to turn it on again. Every motherboard manual has a section detailing the wiring of the on/off button - it goes along with the wiring of the reset switch, frontal USB ports, and for some old motherboards, an internal speaker.
Disclaimer: if you don't feel confortable operating a soldering iron, or if you are not skilled with electronics or electric stuff, this might not be a good idea. You may risk shorting your motherboard. Otherwise, have fun!
There exists a cover that prevents most young kids from accidentally touching nd powering down the PC. It only works for certain types of power buttons though (the round ones). I was hoping someone made one of these for my PC's square power button.
Tape a penny over the power button.
Replace the tape as it loses adhesiveness.
