power supply wiring

I have a micro-atx power supply that I took the case off. I did this so it will fit into a really small custom case. Where the power cord plugs into the power supply, it is 3-prong and with the case off you can see the wire leads going onto the power supply board. The 3rd prong wire lead is attached to a screw (i assume this is a ground). Will the power supply operate without this wire lead connected or grounded? This is the first time ive opened a power supply and i don't want to test it until I know for sure. I am assuming it won't work.
Thanks for any help.

Yes the third prong is a ground. Will it work without it? Maybe, but I wouldn't recomend it! IT's grounded for a reason!!!! Don't mess with the grounding wire. Also I personally wounldn't run the power supply without some kind of case on it! What is this for anyway? If it's for a non-technical person I would say definately NOT. Too many stray fingers, etc... Especially if little kids might even POSSIBLY be around it. You'd be amazed at what some kids will do!

Ok. I will take that into consideration. I have an old NES console that doesn't work and I was thinking about placing a machine in it. I know this mod has probably been done a lot but it looks cool enough and I have most of the parts laying around anyway. I will find a way to connect the ground if I do it. Do you still think I need a case for the PSU.

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Originally posted by scott
Ok. I will take that into consideration Do you still think I need a case for the PSU.

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Yes to both,you do need an earth[ground] for safetys sake and yes you should put the power supply within a case of its own as the prevelence to open the case for an upgrade would leave a mains supply open to touch.

Thanks for the help. Looks like I have my answers.