I just unpack my new pc from TigerDirect, but it couldn't start. After swapping power supply found it was the problem.
Question- anybody knows how to work on a psu? what can I do to test or fix?
yewakguy 0 Newbie Poster
Sparkplug188 0 Junior Poster in Training
Power supplies can be tricky business and usually can't be fixed, but if you're feeling lucky get the screwdriver.
My guess is that during shipping either the fuse inside the PSU came loose or the motherboard plug wasn't making full contact. First you would want to see if you could get it to work by plugging everything back in inside the computer to see if that was the problem. You don't have to bolt it in, just make sure the plugs are tight. If that didn't work, UNPLUG the power supply from the wall and computer and open the dead power supply (this will void the power supply warranty if it had one). Look look for a fuse, but don't touch anything else. Make sure the fuse is good and is making good contact with the holder.
If your power supply still doesn't work, just forgetting about it or take it to a shop. ;)
yewakguy 0 Newbie Poster
Will try to check for fuse, not to worry about warranty.. Thanks
dcc 88 Posting Virtuoso
Most PSU fuses are pc mounted, you can meter them out for continuity using a Ohm meter. To change the fuse is going to involve removing the pc board from the case standoffs as the solder connections are on the underside. This will make the capacitors accessable which can be dangerous as they will hold a linevoltage charge for a very long time. If you have the tools and tech abilities go for it.
If you have a volt meter you can take the 20/24 pin connector and make a short between the green wire and any black wire and then plug the PSU into the wall receptacle. This will turn the PSU on and you should be able to take readings of the different rails.
Orange +3.3 VDC
Red +5 VDC
White -5 VDC
Yellow +12 VDC
Blue -12 VDC
Black Ground
Green Power Supply On
lasher511 185 Veteran Poster
If it is a brand new computer shouldn't it have at least some warranty on the whole machine?
jbennet 1,618 Most Valuable Poster Team Colleague Featured Poster
yes also NEVER poce about inside a PSU with a screwdriver even if its off as the capicators can hold hundreds of volts that can KILL you.
lasher511 185 Veteran Poster
lol yep ive done that before although its AMPs that can kill you not volts
DimaYasny 180 Godmode enabled Team Colleague Featured Poster
new computer - why bother fixing it, when you have warranty?
jbennet 1,618 Most Valuable Poster Team Colleague Featured Poster
lol yep ive done that before although its AMPs that can kill you not volts
sorry, i know nothing about electrinics :)
yewakguy 0 Newbie Poster
Thank you all. I have replaced the PSU with a new one, and sold the system as didn't have a good beginning. What I gained though was now I know how to check a PSU with a multimeter. Thank you again. CHEERS:cheesy:
JANINE 33 Practically a Posting Shark
Irrespective of it being volts or amps that can kill you this guy is right. Don't go poking about inside that PSU unless specifically trianed to do so.
Be a part of the DaniWeb community
We're a friendly, industry-focused community of developers, IT pros, digital marketers, and technology enthusiasts meeting, networking, learning, and sharing knowledge.