A system and method for testing a self configuring computer which includes a computer system. Sensors electrically communicating with respective electrical connectors in the computer system. The sensors detecting when the electrical connector has a change of status from a previous start up. The sensor indicating a state change when the connector has a change of status. The computer system electrically communicating with the sensor for detecting the sensor state. The computer system initiating a power up and a self test of the connector and a new device connected to the connector using the program upon start up of the computer system when a change in the state of the sensor indicates a change in the status of the connector. The computer system by-passing a power up and self test of the connector when there is no change in the state of the sensor.