How do you avoid stripping or damaging PC screws with your screwdriver?

2 Apply the right pressure and angle

The second step to avoid stripping or damaging PC screws is to apply the right pressure and angle when you insert or remove them. You should not use too much or too little force, as this can cause the screwdriver to slip or the screw to break. You should also hold the screwdriver straight and perpendicular to the screw, and not at an angle. This will ensure a better grip and alignment, and reduce the risk of damage. You can use a magnetic screwdriver or a magnetized bit to help you hold the screw in place.

3 Use the right technique and order

The third step to avoid stripping or damaging PC screws is to use the right technique and order when you install or remove them. You should not over-tighten or under-tighten the screws, as this can cause stress or instability. You should also follow a cross pattern or a diagonal pattern when you tighten or loosen the screws, especially for components that have multiple screws, such as the motherboard or the CPU cooler. This will help you distribute the pressure evenly and prevent warping or cracking.

4 Check for obstructions and alignment

The fourth step to avoid stripping or damaging PC screws is to check for obstructions and alignment before you insert or remove them. You should make sure that there are no wires, cables, or other components that are blocking or interfering with the screw holes or the screw heads. You should also make sure that the components are aligned correctly and that the screw holes match. If you force a screw into a misaligned or obstructed hole, you can damage the screw, the component, or the case.

5 Use lubricant or heat if needed

The fifth step to avoid stripping or damaging PC screws is to use lubricant or heat if needed. Sometimes, you may encounter a screw that is stuck, rusted, or stripped, and that won't budge with normal force. In this case, you can try to apply some lubricant, such as WD-40 or silicone spray, to the screw head and let it soak for a few minutes. This can help loosen the screw and make it easier to remove. Alternatively, you can try to apply some heat, such as a soldering iron or a hair dryer, to the screw head and let it expand slightly. This can also help break the bond and make it easier to remove.

6 Use pliers or extractors if necessary

The sixth step to avoid stripping or damaging PC screws is to use pliers or extractors if necessary. If lubricant or heat doesn't work, or if the screw head is too damaged or missing, you may need to use pliers or extractors to remove the screw. Pliers are tools that can grip the screw head and twist it out, while extractors are tools that can drill into the screw head and pull it out. You should use these tools carefully and gently, as they can damage the component or the case if you apply too much force or drill too deep.