Computer Won’t Start - Replace A Bad Power Supply

One of the most common aliments that may affect a computer is a dead or dying power supply. Like the battery in your car, a bad computer power supply won’t ‘crank up’ your PC to get it started.

Common signs of a failed power supply unit are:

• You push the power button and nothing happens.

• You smell smoke or an odor of burning electronics.

Unplug the power cord and all other connectors to the case. You should also wear a wrist strap and ground yourself to the case.

You will need a #2 Phillips head screwdriver to remove the four screws that secure the power supply to the case.

Remove the computer case cover and locate the power supply which is normally located at the top of the computer case. You can identify the power supply since it will be in a metal enclosure with multiple wires coming out of it and with a fan affixed inside which is usually at the rear or bottom of the unit. See here.

If you haven’t changed out a power supply unit before, I would recommend that you make a diagram of where all of the connectors are plugged into. In particular note the plugs going into the mainboard or motherboard. Also make note of the other connectors going into the floppy disk drive, hard drive[s] and cd-rom, cd-rw,dvd, or dvd-rw drive(s). Once you are satisfied that you have a accurate diagram proceed in removing the power connectors. Next remove the four screws securing the power supply to the case. Gently remove the power supply unit taking care not to damage any of the other components in the case.

Now we need to find a replacement unit. You have several options. One is to go to your local computer shop, bringing the old unit with you, and get a replacement. Second option is to order a unit from an online vendor. This might be also a good time to increase the wattage of your unit. What wattage do you need? Here is a good site to use in helping to determine the wattage.

Once you have your unit, reverse the above procedure. Follow the diagram you made exactly and double check all of your connections. Replace the cover and hook back up all of your connectors.

Let her rip!

[tags]power supply, bad, replacement,computer, aliment[/tags]