diagnosing power problem

[jacksonpt]

I've got a PC that won't power on - is there a way to test the power supply, short of swapping in a new one?

My building lost power the other day and the PC won't turn on since.

[$tinkle]

if you get power from the same source to other devices, it's 99.999% toasted

[H8R]

A new PSU is cheap.

A new good PSU is expensive.


What kinda machine are we talking about here? Is it a recent model fast computer or an older one?

[Arkayne]

You could crack it open (4 screws) and check the fuse if you really want to skimp. I recommend a new ps.

[eaterofdog]

Sniff it, cooked PSPs stink.

[jacksonpt]

No smell, it's a newish dell, not quite a year old, probably under warranty but I can't really afford to be without a the box for as long as it would take to warranty it out.

[H8R]

No smell, it's a newish dell, not quite a year old, probably under warranty but I can't really afford to be without a the box for as long as it would take to warranty it out.


Throw a cheap PSU in there and see if it powers up. If not, attempt warranty, but I doubt they will honor it if the system was fried from a power surge.

[binary visions]

I've got a brand new Antec Earthwatts 380W PSU at home, only installed once to boot a machine and then put away.

$30 + shipping and it's yours. It's like getting a cheap PSU, only it's actually a pretty decent one :D

[jacksonpt]

Thanks BV, but state/govt purchasing regulations would complain about that... makes too much sense.

[jacksonpt]

It's fixed - PS was the problem. Swapped in a new one and all is good.